Jon Graham
Vicksburg,MS
Summary
Organizational leader and educational administrator offering 10 years of experience in
working with teachers and educational professionals to improve lesson plans and curriculum, organizational and time management skills, and school administration and leadership. Exercises honed competencies in development, implementation and execution of performance-enhancing programs. Outstanding skills in parent communication, conflict resolution and staff management. Known for consistently supporting faculty and staff as advocate leader.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
6th Grade Science and Social Studies Teacher
Beechwood Elementary School
08.2023 - Current
- Improved student comprehension by utilizing diverse teaching methods and materials tailored to individual learning styles.
- Enhanced critical thinking skills for students through engaging debates and inquiry-based activities.
- Developed a positive classroom environment by fostering open communication, respect, and collaboration among students.
- Cultivated strong relationships with parents, maintaining open lines of communication to support student progress at home.
- Served on school's Leader in Me Lighthouse Team
- Served on VWSD Superintendent's Advisory Council
- Served on VWSD Portrait of a Graduate Leadership Committee
Jr. High and High School Principal
Vicksburg Catholic Schools
06.2022 - 07.2023
- Improved school''s overall performance by implementing innovative educational programs and curricula.
- Enhanced teacher effectiveness through regular professional development workshops and training sessions.
- Led the successful accreditation process, ensuring high-quality education standards were maintained.
- Managed budget allocations effectively to support instructional resources, technology upgrades, and facility improvements.
- Established strong relationships with community organizations to enhance student learning opportunities outside the classroom.
- Evaluated teacher performance regularly to provide constructive feedback for continuous improvement in instruction quality.
- Championed diversity initiatives within the school environment, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all students and staff members.
- Spearheaded fundraising efforts to secure additional resources for extracurricular activities, technology advancements, and infrastructure improvements.
- Addressed disciplinary issues promptly and fairly, upholding a consistent standard of behavior expectations across the school community.
- Oversaw scheduling processes to ensure optimal class sizes and balanced course offerings for diverse learner needs.
- Prepared school budget and submitted to the state school board (diocese) with recommendations for hiring, capital expenditures, and cost-saving initiatives.
- Kept school in full compliance with established policies, legal requirements and student safety standards.
- Researched and wrote proposals for educational grants.
- Collaborated with district leaders to align curriculum goals and strategies across all schools by developing the statewide Strategic Plan, creating the local school's Startegic Plan and revising the mission/vision statements, and creating partnerships with outside resources (STEM partnership with Alcorn State University, Dual Enrollment with Mississippi State University for engineering courses, and STEM initiative partnership with ERDC).
Career Academy Coach, Lead Teacher, Instructional
Vicksburg High School
05.2020 - 05.2022
- Developed and implemented differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles, resulting in increased student engagement and success.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary units of study, fostering a deeper understanding of content across subject areas.
- Designed and executed project-based learning experiences, promoting teamwork, problem-solving skills, and real-world connections for students.
- Established positive relationships with parents through regular communication regarding student progress, collaborating on strategies for academic success at home and school.
- Led a team of educators in developing cohesive curricula aligned with state standards, ensuring consistency across grade levels and subject areas.
- Assisted in coordinating school-wide events such as science fairs and literacy nights, enhancing community involvement and support for education initiatives.
- Coordinated after-school tutoring programs to provide additional academic support for struggling students, improving their overall achievement levels.
- Organized field trips that enriched classroom learning experiences by connecting students with real-world applications of course concepts.
- Conferred with parents about student progress to boost family involvement and enhance student support.
- Increased student involvement in program offerings through strategic redesign of program processes and methods.
- Incorporated exciting and engaging activities to achieve student participation and hands-on learning.
- Increased educational expertise and knowledge by participating in instructor-oriented workshops.
- Scheduled conferences with parents to discuss students' progress and classroom behavior.
- Served as the school's Leader in Me Administrator and media specialist.
- Successfully coached two sports.
ICT II Teacher
Academy Of Innovation
06.2017 - 05.2020
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Increased student literacy rates by implementing targeted reading strategies in instruction plans.
- Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum.
- Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Created lessons and online testing materials by utilizing Canvas. (C.O.O.L. certified)
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
- Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
- Collaborated with fellow CTE Advisory Council members to identify pressing issues affecting youth and develop innovative solutions.
- Utilized social media platforms effectively to promote upcoming events, share important news updates, and engage with followers.
4th Grade ELA Teacher
South Park Elementary School
08.2016 - 05.2017
- Improved student literacy skills by incorporating engaging, age-appropriate literature into lessons.
- Developed strong relationships with parents and guardians to support students'' academic progress and personal growth.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary units that connected ELA content with other subject areas.
- Mentored new teachers in effective instructional strategies for 4th-grade learners, promoting professional development and collaboration.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Administered assessments and standardized tests to evaluate student progress.
- Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process.
- Collaborated with administrators on classroom policies, management strategies, and discipline.
High School Special Education Teacher
Northwest Rankin High School
08.2015 - 05.2016
- Improved student comprehension by implementing differentiated instruction strategies tailored to individual learning needs.
- Enhanced classroom management by establishing clear expectations and consistently enforcing rules and consequences.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop and integrate interdisciplinary lesson plans, broadening student understanding of various subjects.
- Increased parent engagement through regular communication, building strong relationships and fostering a supportive learning environment at home.
- Promoted a culture of inclusion by adapting lessons for diverse learners, ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for all students.
- Evaluated student progress using formative assessments, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to maximize learning outcomes.
- Contributed to IEP development and implementation, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to provide appropriate accommodations and modifications for special education students.
- Supported social-emotional growth by incorporating SEL activities into daily routines, fostering a positive classroom climate conducive to learning.
- Facilitated successful transitions for students entering high school or transitioning between grade levels by coordinating orientation programs and creating personalized transition plans.
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
- Maintained accurate and complete student records to prepare reports on children and activities.
- Assembled resource materials to communicate helpful information to parents and staff regarding special needs topics.
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Millcreek School Of Magee
11.2014 - 07.2015
- Enhanced parent-teacher communication by conducting regular meetings and providing frequent progress updates.
- Provided one-on-one support for students struggling in specific areas, resulting in marked improvement in their understanding of the subject matter.
- Assessed student performance regularly using various evaluation tools, adjusting instructional strategies as needed.
- Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, fostering a comprehensive learning experience.
- Supported the development of social skills among students by promoting group activities and cooperative learning opportunities.
- Monitored student progress closely, intervening proactively when necessary to ensure steady growth and achievement of learning goals.
- Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
- Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
- Worked with students with moderate to severe autism to increase life skills.
- Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
- Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
- Worked with parents, teachers and school leadership to develop tailored education plans for students.
4th Grade ELA Teacher
Magee Elementary School
08.2014 - 11.2014
- Improved student literacy skills by incorporating engaging, age-appropriate literature into lessons.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary units that connected ELA content with other subject areas.
- Enhanced student writing skills through structured workshops focused on revision and peer editing processes.
- Implemented research-based teaching practices to effectively address the unique challenges associated with teaching 4th Grade ELA.
- Launched an after-school reading club for struggling readers to provide additional support and foster a love of reading.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Kept classroom organized, clean and safe for students and visitors.
- Evaluated academic skills of each student through verbal assessments, graded assignments and standardized tests.
- Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
- Administered assessments and standardized tests to evaluate student progress.
- Worked with administrators on behavioral issues to support needs of students.
- Supported student skill development in alignment with personal and academic goals.
- Integrated technology and multimedia tools into lessons to enhance student learning.
High School Study Hall and In-school Suspension
Mendenhall High School
08.2013 - 05.2014
- Increased student comprehension by incorporating real-world examples and hands-on activities into lessons.
- Enhanced students'' critical thinking skills through the use of engaging debate topics and problem-solving exercises.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, connecting subjects for a more cohesive learning experience.
- Established a positive classroom environment by setting clear expectations and fostering open communication between students and teachers.
- Supported diverse learners with individualized instruction and accommodations tailored to their unique needs.
- Developed strong relationships with parents, keeping them informed of student progress and involving them in school activities.
- Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and targeted interventions to improve academic performance.
- Led students in community service projects, instilling a sense of civic responsibility while enhancing their teamwork and leadership skills.
- Managed classroom resources efficiently, ensuring that all necessary materials were readily available for lessons and activities.
- Served as an advisor for after-school clubs or organizations, fostering connections between classmates while expanding their interests outside the traditional curriculum.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
United States Marine Corps
United States Marine Corps
04.2001 - 04.2009
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Participated in community events representing U.S. military and recruited interested parties.
- Displayed exemplary personal and professional appearance, attracting local populace to inquire about military experience and opportunities.
Education
Ed.D. - Doctorate of Higher Education
Delta State University
Cleveland, MS07.2024
Specialist of Education - Educational Administration And Leadership
Delta State University
Cleveland, MS12.2019
Master of Arts - Education
Belhaven University
Jackson, MS05.2016
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies - Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS12.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations And Organizational Communication
Mississippi College
Clinton, MSAssociate of Arts -
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Wesson, MS05.2006
Skills
- Lesson Planning and Differentiated Instruction
- Technology Implementation
- Progress Monitoring
- Relationship building and networking
- Student achievement with Data-Driven Instruction
- Community Relations
- Safety and security procedures
- Employee Performance Evaluations with Effective Instructional Leadership
- Budget Creation and Strategic Planning
- Student Discipline and Classroom Management
Certification
- C.O.O.L. certified (online learning, Canvas)
- Various CTE courses certifications
- Apple Educator Certified
- Licensed Administrator (MDE and MAIS)
Timeline
6th Grade Science and Social Studies Teacher
Beechwood Elementary School
08.2023 - Current
Jr. High and High School Principal
Vicksburg Catholic Schools
06.2022 - 07.2023
Career Academy Coach, Lead Teacher, Instructional
Vicksburg High School
05.2020 - 05.2022
ICT II Teacher
Academy Of Innovation
06.2017 - 05.2020
4th Grade ELA Teacher
South Park Elementary School
08.2016 - 05.2017
High School Special Education Teacher
Northwest Rankin High School
08.2015 - 05.2016
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Millcreek School Of Magee
11.2014 - 07.2015
4th Grade ELA Teacher
Magee Elementary School
08.2014 - 11.2014
High School Study Hall and In-school Suspension
Mendenhall High School
08.2013 - 05.2014
United States Marine Corps
United States Marine Corps
04.2001 - 04.2009
Ed.D. - Doctorate of Higher Education
Delta State University
Specialist of Education - Educational Administration And Leadership
Delta State University
Master of Arts - Education
Belhaven University
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies - Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Southern Mississippi
Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations And Organizational Communication
Mississippi College
Associate of Arts -
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
- C.O.O.L. certified (online learning, Canvas)
- Various CTE courses certifications
- Apple Educator Certified
- Licensed Administrator (MDE and MAIS)
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