Jena Epstein
New York,NY
Summary
Dedicated Middle and Upper School History Teacher offering 20-year background educating students in brain-based, nurturing, social-emotional and culturally diverse learning environment. Recognized for adapting teaching methods and materials to meet students varying needs and employing broad range of instructional techniques to retain student interest and maximize learning. Encouraging and motivational professional committed to maintaining highest standards of professional integrity and reliability. Successful at building positive teacher-parent relationships to support student success. Open and clear communicator and creative problem-solver.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Fifth Grade Dean
The Nightingale Bamford School
06.2023 - Current
- Oversee the academic, social, and emotional progress of 50 fifth grade students; be in regular contact with each student’s team – including advisor, parents, teachers, counselor, learning specialists, and divisional leadership – to determine how best to support them.
- Establish a safe, secure, friendly class environment in which each student is seen and heard, as well as advance class-wide initiatives. Serve as a resource for students and parents on a daily basis.
- Understand the developmental needs of Middle School students and the desire to hold students to high standards while supporting and nurturing their growth.
Middle School History Teacher
The Nightingale Bamford School
08.2004 - Current
- Currently a middle school history teacher who currently teaches 5th grade ancient civilizations.
- Have taught 9th grade early modern world history, 8th grade American history, 7th grade medieval world history, 6th grade civics and ancient Roman history.
- Extensive work in designing and rethinking history curriculum, creating new courses and finding effective historical materials for the middle school level.
Humanities Teacher
Georgetown Day School
08.2003 - 06.2004
- Taught 5th grade Humanities as well as designed curriculum around the theme of social justice.
- Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing various teaching methods and strategies, catering to diverse learning styles.
- Maintained open lines of communication with parents through regular meetings and written correspondence, keeping them informed about their child''s academic progress and addressing any concerns that arose.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
Advisor and Homeroom Teacher
The Nightingale Bamford School
09.2005 - Current
- Served as Class V Homeroom Teacher, Class IX Homeroom teacher, and Upper School Advisor for many years.
- Promoted a safe and positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and enforcing consistent discipline.
- Maintained open lines of communication with families through regular conferences, phone calls, and emails.
- Coordinated field trips that aligned with curriculum objectives, broadening students'' understanding of subject material through experiential learning.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
Education
Master of Arts - Teaching Social Studies Grades 7-12
Teachers College of Columbia University
New York, NY08.2003
Bachelor of Arts - History, Minor in Medieval And Renaissance Studies
Carleton College
Northfield, MN06.2002
High School Diploma -
The Masters School
Doobs Ferry, NY06.1998
Skills
- Effective organizational skills both inside and outside the classroom
- Over 20 years experience teaching middle school students reading, writing, research and oral presentation skills
- Excellent communication skills among students, colleagues and parents
- Team player with an upbeat personality who enjoys collaborating with colleagues
Professional Development
As a faculty member of the Nightingale-Bamford School for 21 years I have been fortunate to participate in many professional development opportunities including:The Writing Revolution for educators grades 3-12; Stanley King Institute for social emotional learning and deep listening; China Institute: Ancient Chinese history class for educators; Gilder Lehrman Seminar for teachers: American studies class on Civil War Era; Klingenstein Young Teachers Institute.
Timeline
Fifth Grade Dean
The Nightingale Bamford School
06.2023 - Current
Advisor and Homeroom Teacher
The Nightingale Bamford School
09.2005 - Current
Middle School History Teacher
The Nightingale Bamford School
08.2004 - Current
Humanities Teacher
Georgetown Day School
08.2003 - 06.2004
Master of Arts - Teaching Social Studies Grades 7-12
Teachers College of Columbia University
Bachelor of Arts - History, Minor in Medieval And Renaissance Studies
Carleton College
High School Diploma -
The Masters School