Joan MacDonald
Teacher
WALNUT CREEK,CA
Summary
I have worked with teens and families for almost 40 years. I have also raised 3 teenagers of my own. I have lived and worked in this community since 1988. I am deeply rooted with many of the local families, from young children to their grandparents. I felt my roots in the community gave me a great advantage while I worked as an instructor at De La Salle. I was able to listen to parents and students concerns on a regular basis, whether it was at church, local little league games or my students various activities.
While teaching at De La Salle I regularly attended Huether, the Christian Brother's yearly conference to gather LaSallian Partners from all over the country. I also participated in Social Justice Conferences sponsored by the Christian Brothers. These conferences enhanced my classroom knowledge as well as helped me make important professional connections throughout the LaSallian world.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Religious Studies Teacher
De La Salle High School
Concord , CA
08.2001 - 08.2020
- Engaged students by encouraging participation in class and sharing thoughts on subjects under discussion.
- Maintained student attendance records, grades and other required records to meet departmental standards and monitor student progress.
- Conducted educational and engaging lectures centered on such topics as ethics, critical thinking and contemporary moral issues.
- Kept abreast of developments in field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues and participating in professional conferences.
- Carried out day-day-day duties accurately and professionally.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed throughout the school.
- Performed duties in accordance with applicable standards, policies and work guidelines to promote a safe learning environment.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Youth Minister
St. Francis Of Assisi Church
Concord , CA
09.1988 - 06.2001
- Kept records of youth participation and youth ministry budget.
- Utilized excellent organizational and communications skills to coordinate and motivate volunteers.
- Applied best practices for developing a Catholic youth program that taught Christian values and provided outreach activities.
- Acted as confidant for many young church members to enhance faith and personal growth.
- Maintained effective communication with the Director of Parish Ministries, ensuring effective and cooperative youth program development.
- Arranged community service projects for youth group members and their families.
- Chaperoned students on field trips and other outdoor activities, monitoring behavior and safety.
- Planned weekly groups as well as special events and overnight retreats.
- Shared valuable life experiences with youths aged 14 to 19 to promote positive self-esteem, improve social skills, and challenge their faith and growth.
- Built lasting relationships with youth and parents or guardians through weekly youth group gatherings and a presence in the teens and their family's lives well beyond leaving the program.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Religious Studies
Gonzaga University
Spokane, WA05.1982
Skills
*Developing personal relationships with students and their parents, as well as faculty member and administration
*Created a very prayerful and safe learning environment
*Insightful and knowledgeable of teenage issues
*A strong spiritual leader and mentor
*A good listener with strong ability to give meaningful feedback
*Strong work relationships with administration, support staff and faculty members that gave me a well-rounded perspective of the challenges and accomplishments at De La Salle
Timeline
Religious Studies Teacher
De La Salle High School
08.2001 - 08.2020
Youth Minister
St. Francis Of Assisi Church
09.1988 - 06.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Religious Studies
Gonzaga University
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