John Devine
Elgin,Illinois
Summary
Dynamic educator with over 30 years of experience in social studies instruction and extracurricular organization. Expertise in developing engaging lesson plans and facilitating critical discussions. Passionate about enhancing student civic engagement through innovative programs and collaborative curriculum development.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
High School Social Studies Teacher
School District U-46
Elgin, Illinois
08.1990 - 06.2022
- Developed engaging lesson plans for diverse social studies topics.
- Facilitated classroom discussions to encourage critical thinking among students.
- Collaborated with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects and curriculum development.
- Organized extracurricular activities to promote civic engagement and awareness.
- Coached boys cross country and track.
- Hosted weekly prayer and Bible study for interested students.
- Made connections with local institutions to support student interest in internships.
Machinist
S & C Electric Company
Chicago, Illinois
09.1986 - 08.1990
- Operated CNC machines to fabricate precision components for electrical equipment.
Food Handler
Burhops Seafood
Chicago, IL
06.1983 - 09.1985
- Hands on management of fish and seafood market. I took weekly inventory, cut and processed fish, waited on customers, balanced daily receipts, and maintained health code regulations.
Education
Master of Arts - 19th Century American History
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL08-1997
Bachelor of Arts - History
Loyola University of Chicago
Chicago, IL06-1987
Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education And Certification
Loyola University of Chicago
Chicago, IL06-1987
Associate of Arts - American Intercultural Ministries
Moody Bible Institute
Chicago, Illinois06-1983
High School Diploma -
Revere High School
Richfield, Ohio06-1980
Skills
- Extracurricular organization- organized and mapped summer interdisciplinary study and travel program
- Critical thinking facilitation- developed primary source based debates to encourage a living history approach
- Developed training and nutrition programs for high performing long distance runners
- Collaborated with district social studies colleagues to write curriculum, enhance professional development, and write student assessments
References
References available upon request.
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- Since retiring from Elgin High School in 2022, I have returned as a substitute teacher to meet the need and to continue relationships.
- I have increased my involvement with the Elgin History Museum, serving as Board Vice-President and as coordinator of the annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk.
- I have helped to organize the curriculum and assessments for Oasis Church Chicao's School of Ministry.
- I volunteered for the first time with Samaritans Purse in December 2025.
Timeline
High School Social Studies Teacher
School District U-46
08.1990 - 06.2022
Machinist
S & C Electric Company
09.1986 - 08.1990
Food Handler
Burhops Seafood
06.1983 - 09.1985
Master of Arts - 19th Century American History
Northern Illinois University
Bachelor of Arts - History
Loyola University of Chicago
Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education And Certification
Loyola University of Chicago
Associate of Arts - American Intercultural Ministries
Moody Bible Institute
High School Diploma -
Revere High School