JaPaul Vines
Pinson
Summary
Dynamic and culturally responsive English Language Arts educator with a strong foundation in literacy development, student engagement, and creative instruction, seeking to transition into a school librarian/media specialist role within Birmingham City Schools. Proven ability to foster a love of reading, support diverse learners, and integrate storytelling, research, and media literacy into instruction. Skilled in creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments that promote critical thinking, inquiry, and academic growth.
I am passionate about transforming the school library into a space where students not only access books but also discover identity, voice, and purpose through literacy.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
8th Grade English Language Arts Teacher
Huffman Middle School | Birmingham City Schools
Birmingham, AL
12.2025 - Current
- Designed comprehensive ELA curriculum focused on improving reading comprehension, writing proficiency, and critical thinking.
- Developed and implemented strategies to promote independent reading through the use of culturally relevant texts.
- Designed and executed targeted instructional approaches based on data insights, addressing the unique needs of diverse learners.
- Applied research annotation and text analysis methodologies aligned with media literacy principles to improve information skills.
- Designed and implemented strategies to foster a classroom culture that values discussion, inquiry, and student perspectives.
Founder / Director / Playwright
DeVine Vision Theatre Company
Birmingham, AL
10.2012 - Current
- Established strategic vision for DeVine Vision Theatre Company, driving organizational growth and community engagement.
- Led production planning and execution for diverse theatrical performances, ensuring high-quality artistic presentations.
- Directed marketing initiatives to enhance brand visibility and audience outreach through targeted campaigns.
- Mentored emerging artists and staff, fostering talent development within the theatre community.
Theatre Arts Teacher (ELA-Integrated)
Birmingham City Schools (Jackson-Olin HS / Wilkerson MS)
Birmingham, AL
01.2025 - 12.2025
- Developed engaging curriculum that fosters deeper understanding by linking literature with performance and storytelling techniques.
- Implemented performance-based learning strategies to assist students in critically analyzing complex texts, emphasizing themes and character development.
- Facilitated activities aimed at improving students' speaking, listening, and interpretive skills, crucial for comprehensive literacy development.
- Curated and organized writing portfolios that highlight proficiency in literary analysis, reflective writing, and creative expression.
ELA & Reading Tutor (Grades 6–9)
Independant
Birmingham, AL
01.2017 - 12.2025
- Designed personalized reading plans to enhance student comprehension and engagement.
- Implemented diverse teaching strategies to accommodate varying learning styles and abilities.
- Assessed student progress through regular evaluations, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
- Collaborated with parents and educators to support individual learning goals and address challenges.
Customer Service & Leadership Roles – Asurion, Ama
Customer Service & Leadership Roles – Asurion, Amazon, Bank of the Wet, ABC Financial, TeleNetwork
Birmingham, AL
01.2010 - 10.2023
- Led training sessions and developed instructional materials to support adult learning.
- Strengthened communication, organization, and leadership skills transferable to school environments.
- Built strong relationships through conflict resolution and effective communication.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Certified Modern Classrooms Project Educator
Modern Classrooms Project
11-2025
Bachelor of Science - Arts And Entertainment Management
Full Sail University
PD11-2022
Skills
- Grammar teaching
- Feedback delivery
- Multicultural education
- Lesson plan implementation
- Activity planning
- Literacy skills
- Instructional technology
- Collaborative learning
- Vocabulary building
- Oral communication
- Teaching strategies
- Literary analysis
- Project-based learning
- Writing instruction
- Reading comprehension
Certification
State of Alabama Department of Education - Emergency Certificate (EC!)
Timeline
8th Grade English Language Arts Teacher
Huffman Middle School | Birmingham City Schools
12.2025 - Current
Theatre Arts Teacher (ELA-Integrated)
Birmingham City Schools (Jackson-Olin HS / Wilkerson MS)
01.2025 - 12.2025
ELA & Reading Tutor (Grades 6–9)
Independant
01.2017 - 12.2025
Founder / Director / Playwright
DeVine Vision Theatre Company
10.2012 - Current
Customer Service & Leadership Roles – Asurion, Ama
Customer Service & Leadership Roles – Asurion, Amazon, Bank of the Wet, ABC Financial, TeleNetwork
01.2010 - 10.2023
Bachelor of Science - Certified Modern Classrooms Project Educator
Modern Classrooms Project
Bachelor of Science - Arts And Entertainment Management
Full Sail University
Awards & Recognition
Birmingham’s Most Notable Creative & Playwright (2015, 2016)
NHBC Youth Advisor of the Year (2012, 2013)
NHBC MACAM Leader of the Year (2016)