James Miks
Lake Forest
Summary
Professional communicator with proven history of delivering dynamic presentations that resonate with diverse audiences. Known for fostering collaborative environment and consistently delivering results. Emphasizes clear communication and adaptability, making valuable contributions to team efforts.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
English Teacher
John Hersey High School
01.2000 - 01.2025
- Courses: AP Seminar, AP Language, Honors World Literature, American Literature, Contemporary American Text, Interdisciplinary AP Psychology
- Head Girls Cross Country Coach (2003-2015)
- Head Girls Track and Field Coach (2003-2026)
English Teacher
Buffalo Grove High School
01.1994 - 01.2000
- Courses: World Studies, American Studies, Myth and Folklore, Freshman Literature and Composition, English Review
- Head/Assistant Boys Cross Country Coach (1994-2000)
- Assistant Girls Track and Field Coach (1996-2000)
Education
M.A. - Liberal Studies
University of Chicago
01.2003
M.A. - Liberal Studies
Northwestern University
01.1997
B.S. - English Education
University of Dayton
01.1993
Skills
- Leadership
- Coaching
- Confident delivery
- Content development
- Stage presence
- Cross-cultural sensitivity
- Engaging storytelling
Related Experience
- Presenter, American Studies Conference, Harold Washington Library, Blues Music and Catharsis in Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man, 1998
- Presenter, American Studies Conference, Chicago Historical Society, The Frontier American Character, 2008
- Clinic Director, Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association, 2007-17
- Founding Board Member, A Soldier's Journey Home, 2014-18, Led fundraising and helped build handicap-accessible homes for wounded veterans, Ongoing involvement in educational outreach and landscaping for annual home builds, Facilitated connections between veterans, local schools, and community organizations
- Participant, University of Chicago Summer Free Expression Forum, 2022
Awards and Honors
- District 214 Outstanding Educator Award, 2000-01
- District 214 Outstanding Educator Award, 2009-10
- University of Chicago Outstanding Educator, 2010-11
- Heart of Hersey High School Award, 2016-17
- Northwestern University Distinguished Educator Award Finalist (Top 15), 2017-18
- Arlington Heights Memorial Day Parade - 100 Most Influential Citizens, 2018-19
- Smart/Maher VFW Illinois State Educator Award, 2019-20
- District 214 Outstanding Educator Award, 2023-24
- City of Arlington Heights Hearts of Gold Award for Community Betterment, 2025
Affiliations
- FIRE - Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression
Certification
USATF Level 2 Track and Field Coach
Timeline
English Teacher
John Hersey High School
01.2000 - 01.2025
English Teacher
Buffalo Grove High School
01.1994 - 01.2000
M.A. - Liberal Studies
Northwestern University
B.S. - English Education
University of Dayton
M.A. - Liberal Studies
University of Chicago
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