Kara Gilchrist
Irvine,USA
Summary
Dynamic educator with a strong foundation in early childhood education, recognized for crafting engaging and innovative lesson plans that foster an inclusive learning environment. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues to meet educational objectives while adapting to the evolving needs of the classroom. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills enhance the creation of a supportive atmosphere that promotes student growth and development. Committed to nurturing young minds and inspiring a love for learning through creative teaching strategies.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Elementary School Substitute Teacher
Irvine Unified School District
Irvine, CA
- Assisted students in kindergarten through sixth grade within IUSD by implementing lesson plans in subjects such as math, language arts, science, social studies, art, and physical education. Fostered a welcoming and secure classroom environment that addressed individual student needs and promoted inclusivity.
First Grade Teacher
Northwood Elementary
Irvine, CA
08.2023 - Current
- Achieved successful development of 27 first grade students in meeting educational standards through effective instruction. Established classroom and time management strategies that promoted positive behavior and structured learning. Fostered collaboration among first grade teachers to enhance teaching practices through PLC meetings and inquiry-based discussions. Facilitated LPA testing and the creation of reading groups, resulting in students reaching first-grade reading benchmarks. Designed and delivered presentations and lesson plans that addressed the needs of all students, including Level 1 English learners. Provided daily support for students in their English language development. Conducted Tier 1, 2, and 3 instruction to ensure comprehensive student growth. Cultivated an environment where students grasp fundamental concepts across subjects while encouraging independence and curiosity.
Group Fitness Trainer
Club Studio
02.2023 - Current
- Oversaw group fitness class of twenty-five members. Assisted participants with proper exercise techniques while monitoring cardio machine usage. Guided members through exercise demonstrations and warm-up routines. Maintained a safe environment while fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Developed modifications for exercises to accommodate individual needs and promote success for all participants.
Head Coach
Oak Creek Orcas, Irvine Swim League
06.2022 - Current
- Assisted in coaching swim team for 15 years, starting as a swimmer and progressing to head coach. Collaborated with board members to foster a supportive community within swim team. Developed and assigned workouts for all practice sessions, coordinated lane assignments for coaches, and supervised coaching staff during practices and meets.
Educator
Lululemon
10.2020 - Current
- Assisted guests daily with product education and inquiries to enhance shopping experience. Connected with customers to create memorable interactions beyond sales. Managed fitting room operations, supported backroom tasks, and operated cash register as needed.
Long Term Substitute - Kindergarten
Loma Ridge Elementary
05.2023 - 06.2023
- Collaborated with kindergarten teachers to support class management and curriculum planning. Developed a behavior management system to enhance classroom discipline and facilitate learning. Prepared engaging lessons utilizing iPads, Chromebooks, and hands-on activities to prepare students for first grade. Participated in student placement meetings and contributed to LPA testing and report card creation for the third trimester. Engaged in small PLC meetings and full staff meetings to enhance teaching practices and professional development.
Student Teacher
Loma Ridge Elementary/Oak Creek Elementary
01.2023 - 05.2023
- Developed weekly lesson plans for sixth-grade and kindergarten reading, writing, math, and history. Organized learning activities and managed student behavior while adhering to classroom procedures. Prepared lessons using visual aids and hands-on materials, including Chromebooks and iPads. Provided feedback to students and maintained records for ongoing evaluations in collaboration with master teachers. Participated in grade-level meetings to share ideas and contribute to discussions about the learning environment.
Coach
Orangetheory Fitness Foothill Ranch
04.2022 - 02.2023
- Coached eight to ten classes weekly, guiding twenty to twenty-six participants per session. Facilitated two distinct groups during hour-long classes, directing one group on treadmill exercises while demonstrating and supervising strength training for the other. Monitored weight room activities to correct form and prevent injuries, while simultaneously cueing treadmill efforts to maintain balanced attention across both groups.
Coach
Topnotch Fitness
06.2021 - 06.2022
- Assisted in leading fitness classes for groups of 20-30 participants. Guided members through dynamic warm-ups and various exercise routines. Monitored equipment usage to maintain safety and proper form. Provided alternative exercises to accommodate individual needs and comfort levels.
Spin Instructor
Bike to the Beat
09.2018 - 01.2022
- Assisted with front desk operations at Bike to the Beat, gaining familiarity with studio systems, clients, and instructors. Supported training efforts to transition into an instructor role. Conducted first class in April 2019 and continued to lead multiple classes thereafter.
Coach
Orangetheory Fitness Irvine
12.2018 - 06.2021
Assistant Coach
Oak Creek Orcas, Irvine Swim League
06.2015 - 06.2021
Co-Head Trainer
Athletic Republic
01.2017 - 08.2018
- Trained as an athlete with Athletic Republic from age 13. Transitioned to trainer role at age 18. Assisted in training at off-site location for T Street Volleyball Club. Supported training staff on the training floor. Coached six different classes offered. Contributed to social media management. Helped implement cleaning system after training sessions.
Head JV Woodbridge Girls Soccer Coach
WHS Athletics
11.2017 - 02.2018
- Coached 15 high school girls with varying soccer skills. Conducted practices 3-4 times weekly and led 2 games each week. Organized practice sessions, developed drills, supervised transportation, created lineups, and provided guidance during games.
Education
Master of Education - Education
Concordia University
Irvine, CA06.2024
Post-Bachelor Education Program - Credential: Multiple Subject
Concordia University
Irvine06.2024
Exercise and Sports Science - Psychology
Concordia University
Irvine01.2020
Skills
- Strong ability to communicate effectively to all ages of children and adults to meet them where they are at, along with exceptional people skills toward parents
- Collaborative teamwork
- Problem-solving skills
- Classroom management
- Conflict resolution
- Relationship building
- Multitasking and organization
- Parent-teacher communication
- Lesson planning
- Positive reinforcement
Certification
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer- 2018
- NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist- 2020
References
- References available upon request
Timeline
First Grade Teacher
Northwood Elementary
08.2023 - Current
Long Term Substitute - Kindergarten
Loma Ridge Elementary
05.2023 - 06.2023
Group Fitness Trainer
Club Studio
02.2023 - Current
Student Teacher
Loma Ridge Elementary/Oak Creek Elementary
01.2023 - 05.2023
Head Coach
Oak Creek Orcas, Irvine Swim League
06.2022 - Current
Coach
Orangetheory Fitness Foothill Ranch
04.2022 - 02.2023
Coach
Topnotch Fitness
06.2021 - 06.2022
Educator
Lululemon
10.2020 - Current
Coach
Orangetheory Fitness Irvine
12.2018 - 06.2021
Spin Instructor
Bike to the Beat
09.2018 - 01.2022
Head JV Woodbridge Girls Soccer Coach
WHS Athletics
11.2017 - 02.2018
Co-Head Trainer
Athletic Republic
01.2017 - 08.2018
Assistant Coach
Oak Creek Orcas, Irvine Swim League
06.2015 - 06.2021
Exercise and Sports Science - Psychology
Concordia University
Elementary School Substitute Teacher
Irvine Unified School District
Master of Education - Education
Concordia University
Post-Bachelor Education Program - Credential: Multiple Subject
Concordia University