Kandi Johnston
Brookfield,MO
Summary
Dedicated Missouri-certified educator with 10 years of experience teaching elementary and middle school students in diverse classroom environments. Skilled in curriculum development, differentiated instruction, classroom management, and fostering positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Proven track record of improving student achievement through data-driven instruction and innovative teaching strategies.
Professional development trainer skilled in designing and delivering effective training programs. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving impactful results. Expertise in adult learning principles, instructional design, and performance improvement. Reliable, adaptable, and consistently meets changing needs with results-driven approach.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Elementary Music Teacher
Grand Valley Academy
Springfield, MO
08.2021 - 05.2026
- Designed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with Missouri Learning Standards.
- Utilize educational technology including Google Classroom, Nearpod, and interactive digital assessments.
- Maintain strong relationships with parents through regular conferences and progress updates.
- Developed engaging lesson plans integrating music theory and performance skills for diverse student groups.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment encouraging creativity and collaboration among students.
- Implemented assessment strategies to evaluate student progress and adapt instructional methods accordingly.
- Coordinated school-wide music events, enhancing community involvement and student participation in the arts.
- Mentored new teachers in curriculum development and classroom management techniques for effective instruction.
- Collaborated with colleagues to create interdisciplinary projects that connect music education with other subjects.
- Utilized technology tools to enhance music instruction and facilitate remote learning during transitional periods.
- Conducted professional development workshops for staff on innovative teaching practices in music education.
Secondary School Teacher
Grand Valley Academy
Springfield, MO
08.2019 - 05.2021
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting student collaboration and critical thinking.
- Assessed student progress through various evaluation methods to inform instructional strategies.
- Integrated technology tools to enhance learning experiences and facilitate student engagement.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that enrich the curriculum.
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on classroom management and instructional techniques.
- Led initiatives to improve literacy programs, resulting in enhanced reading proficiency among students.
- Organized and facilitated parent-teacher conferences, strengthening home-school communication and support networks.
- Prepared materials for lessons, assignments, and assessments, and evaluated, corrected and graded student performance to identify gaps in skills or knowledge and set realistic goals.
Professional Musician
Self-employeed
Springfield, MO
08.2006 - 05.2019
- Composed and arranged original music across diverse genres for various performances.
- Coordinated live performances, ensuring seamless execution of technical requirements.
- Developed promotional materials and marketing strategies to enhance audience engagement.
- Collaborated with other musicians to create cohesive soundscapes and dynamic arrangements.
- Mentored aspiring musicians, providing guidance on performance techniques and career development.
- Established a strong online presence through social media platforms to reach wider audiences.
- Evaluated and selected appropriate instruments and equipment for optimal sound quality during recordings.
- Adapted performance styles based on audience feedback to ensure memorable experiences.
- Earned a reputation for professionalism by maintaining punctuality, preparedness, and effective communication in all interactions with clients and colleagues.
K-5 Music Teacher
Mathias Elementary School
Rogers, AR
08.2005 - 05.2006
- Designed and implemented engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Collaborated with experienced educators to refine classroom management techniques.
- Facilitated small group instruction, enhancing student comprehension and participation.
- Assessed student progress through formative evaluations, adapting strategies as needed.
- Developed educational resources that aligned with curriculum standards and learning objectives.
- Mentored new student teachers, providing guidance on instructional methods and best practices.
- Developed and implemented training programs to enhance employee skills and performance.
- Conducted needs assessments to identify training gaps and improve learning outcomes.
K-12 Music Teacher
Granby Public School District
Rocky Comfort, MO
08.2004 - 05.2005
- Developed engaging music curriculum aligned with state standards to enhance student learning experiences.
- Fostered inclusive classroom environment promoting collaboration and creativity among diverse student populations.
- Implemented innovative teaching methods utilizing technology to increase student participation and interest in music education.
- Assessed student progress through performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to support individual growth.
- Collaborated with faculty to integrate music education into interdisciplinary projects, enhancing overall academic engagement.
- Organized school-wide musical events, coordinating logistics and ensuring seamless execution of performances.
- Mentored junior staff and interns, sharing best practices in music pedagogy and classroom management strategies.
- Utilized data-driven approaches to track student outcomes, adjusting instructional strategies based on assessment results.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary & Secondary Education
Missouri Southern State University
Joplin, MissouriSkills
- Certified Trainer
- Curriculum Development
- Differentiated Instruction
- Division Policies & Procedures
- Program Assessments
- Data Analysis
- Parent Communication
- Educational Technology
- Google Classroom
- IEP & 504 Accommodations
- Behavior Intervention
- Conflict Resolution
- Team Leadership
- Public Speaking
Certification
- Missouri Professional Teaching Certificate
- Elementary & Secondary Education (Grades K-12)
- Certified Trainer
- CPR & First Aid Certified
- Google Certified Educator – Level 1
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Trauma-Informed Teaching Practices
- Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Responsive Classroom Training
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Education
- Effective Strategies for Differentiated Instruction
- Missouri Educator Evaluation System Training
Timeline
Elementary Music Teacher
Grand Valley Academy
08.2021 - 05.2026
Secondary School Teacher
Grand Valley Academy
08.2019 - 05.2021
Professional Musician
Self-employeed
08.2006 - 05.2019
K-5 Music Teacher
Mathias Elementary School
08.2005 - 05.2006
K-12 Music Teacher
Granby Public School District
08.2004 - 05.2005
Bachelor of Science - Elementary & Secondary Education
Missouri Southern State University