Joshua Zulfa
Bakersfield,CA
Summary
Dedicated and highly prepared Social Studies educator with extensive classroom experience gained through the competitive residency program within the Kern High School District. Known for strong classroom management, meaningful relationship-building with students, and engaging, standards-based instruction. Brings the mindset and skill set of a veteran teacher while maintaining the adaptability and growth orientation of a new educator.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Substitute Teacher
Kern High School District
09.2025 - Current
- Adaptability: Provide instruction and classroom coverage across multiple subject areas and grade levels, adapting quickly to varied school cultures and student populations.
- Continuity of Learning: Maintain continuity of instruction and classroom order in both short-term and long-term assignments.
- Management: effectively manage student behavior and uphold district expectations in the absence of the regular classroom teacher.
Resident Teacher — Social Studies
Kern High School District
08.2025 - Current
- Instruction & Planning: Plan and deliver daily instruction aligned to California Social Science standards, utilizing a variety of instructional modalities to engage students.
- Differentiation: Design differentiated lessons to support diverse learners, English Language Learners, and students with varying skill levels to ensure equitable access to the curriculum.
- Classroom Culture: Implement effective classroom management strategies to maintain a structured, respectful, and safe learning environment conducive to academic growth.
- Collaboration: Collaborate closely with mentor teachers and department staff to refine instructional practices, analyze student data, and develop effective assessment strategies.
- Professional Growth: Gain extensive hands-on experience in long-term planning, grading, parent communication, and establishing classroom routines.
Recreational Leader
NOR (North of the River Recreation and Park District)
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Supervision: Supervised and engaged groups of elementary and middle school students in structured recreational activities.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History, Social Science Teaching
University Name
City, StateAssociate of Arts - History
College Name
City, StateAssociate of Arts - Liberal Arts
College Name
City, StateSkills
- Instructional: Lesson Planning, Curriculum Development, Differentiated Instruction, Standards Alignment
- Management: Positive Behavior Supports (PBIS), Classroom Management, Student Engagement
- Interpersonal: Relationship Building, Collaborative Planning, Adaptability, Reflective Practice
Certification
Successfully Passed TPA 1
Timeline
Substitute Teacher
Kern High School District
09.2025 - Current
Resident Teacher — Social Studies
Kern High School District
08.2025 - Current
Recreational Leader
NOR (North of the River Recreation and Park District)
06.2023 - 08.2023
Associate of Arts - History
College Name
Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts
College Name
Bachelor of Arts - History, Social Science Teaching
University Name
Additional Strengths
- Experienced in working with diverse student populations and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Strong understanding of adolescent development and social-emotional learning needs.
- Deep passion for history education, civic engagement, and fostering critical thinking skills.