Jacob Welker
Frankfort,IL
Summary
Secondary Spanish Educator with 5 years of experience implementing data-driven instruction and culturally responsive pedagogy in the teaching of grades 9-12, including heritage learners, AP and Honors-level courses, and IEP/504 students. Proven ability to improve student proficiency across reading, writing, speaking, and listening through engaging, differentiated instruction. Advanced academic training in curriculum and instruction, Spanish literature, and Spanish linguistics.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Spanish Teacher
Lincoln-Way Central High School, Grades 9-12
08.2023 - Current
- Evaluate performance data for 150 students using Excel to inform instructional adjustments and interventions
- Implement regular digital formative assessments that provide immediate feedback and inform daily lessons
- Design standards-based daily objectives to support measurable growth in proficiency across all four domains
- Maintain regular contact with families via email, phone, and conferences to support student progress
- Adapt assessment materials for 15 students requiring accommodations to ensure equitable access to content
- Establish clear routines and expectations by conducting classes in Spanish for at least 90% of class time
- Create an academically rigorous course while supporting needs of diverse learners
- Refine 7 instructional units per year aligned with ACTFL and district standards
- Collaborate with colleagues weekly to confirm vertical and horizontal alignment of instruction
Spanish Teacher
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School, Grades 9-12
03.2022 - 05.2023
- Advocated for the academic, social, and emotional success of students
- Analyzed data to identify areas of improvement
- Prepared daily lessons for Spanish heritage learners while emphasizing visual impact, engagement, and differentiation
- Participated in weekly PLC meetings focused on instructional improvement and student outcomes
Student Teacher
Joliet Central High School, Grades 9-12
08.2021 - 12.2021
- Facilitated diverse classroom dynamics, prioritizing the development of strong interpersonal relationships.
- Monitored student progress through quarterly reading, listening, speaking, and writing assessments
- Designed and implemented culturally responsive lesson plans to enhance student engagement.
Education
Master of Arts - Spanish
University of Texas of The Permian Basin
Odessa, TX05.2027
Master of Science - Curriculum and Instruction
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT01.2026
Bachelor of Arts - Spanish Teacher Education
Illinois State University
12.2021
Skills
Spanish Language Instruction
Curriculum & Lesson Design
Heritage Learners
Differentiation
Stakeholder Communication
Classroom Management
Digital Assessment
Languages
Language Learning (Spanish – Superior Fluency; German – Intermediate Fluency; French and Portuguese – Novice; Arabic – Beginner)
Timeline
Spanish Teacher
Lincoln-Way Central High School, Grades 9-12
08.2023 - Current
Spanish Teacher
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School, Grades 9-12
03.2022 - 05.2023
Student Teacher
Joliet Central High School, Grades 9-12
08.2021 - 12.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Spanish Teacher Education
Illinois State University
Master of Arts - Spanish
University of Texas of The Permian Basin
Master of Science - Curriculum and Instruction
Western Governors University