Karen Speich
Minnetonka
Summary
Multilingual education leader with over 15 years of experience in program coordination, curriculum development, and educator coaching. Expertise in implementing International Baccalaureate (IB) frameworks, leading professional development, and fostering inclusive, globally competent learning environments. Proven ability to build collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholders to drive educational innovation and equity.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
International Baccalaureate Program Coordinator
International Spanish Language Academy
Edina
10.2008 - 06.2023
- Led implementation of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), including authorization and evaluation phases.
- Designed and led PD workshops to enhance teacher capacity in inquiry and concept-based teaching and learning.
- Promoted student engagement through integrated global themes.
- Managed partnerships and oversaw the International Amity Intern program.
Independent Medical Interpreter Contractor
Kim Tong Translation Services
Minneapolis
01.1997 - 01.2012
- Interpreted for Spanish-speaking patients in healthcare settings.
- Provided culturally competent communication and assistance with medical paperwork.
- Supported patients in navigating healthcare services through follow-up and guidance.
Adjunct Spanish Professor
North Central University
Minneapolis
09.2007 - 06.2008
- Taught immersive Spanish courses aligned with second language acquisition best practices.
- Designed curriculum and assessments to support learning and engagement.
Social Studies Teacher - Extended Spanish Immersion Program
St. Louis Park Junior High School
St. Louis Park
08.2005 - 06.2007
- Taught social studies in Spanish to immersion program students.
- Developed culturally rich and standards-aligned curriculum.
- Promoted critical thinking and global awareness.
Mexican Tourism Training Specialist
Destination Ventures Ltd.
Bend
01.1997 - 06.1997
- Delivered seminars across the U.S. and Canada to promote Mexican tourism.
- Presented to Mexican Consulate and embassy representatives on tourism trends.
- Led educational tours and training programs for travel professionals.
Education
Master of Arts - Spanish Language and Literature
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT, USA/Madrid,Spain Diploma de Estudios Hispánicos -
Universidad Complutense
Madrid, SpainBachelor of Arts - Communication
Augsburg College
Minneapolis, MN, USAInternational Business Studies -
Kent State University
Geneva, SwitzerlandSkills
- Global Competence Integration
- Curriculum Design & Implementation
- Educator Professional Development
- Bilingual Communication (English/Spanish)
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
- Instructional Coaching & Mentorship
- Program Evaluation & Continuous Improvement
- Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Exceptional Presentation & Facilitation Skills
International Experience
Extensive travel, study, and work in Cuba, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, Colombia, Mexico, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Belize, Spain, England, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Ireland, Greece
Timeline
International Baccalaureate Program Coordinator
International Spanish Language Academy
10.2008 - 06.2023
Adjunct Spanish Professor
North Central University
09.2007 - 06.2008
Social Studies Teacher - Extended Spanish Immersion Program
St. Louis Park Junior High School
08.2005 - 06.2007
Mexican Tourism Training Specialist
Destination Ventures Ltd.
01.1997 - 06.1997
Independent Medical Interpreter Contractor
Kim Tong Translation Services
01.1997 - 01.2012
Master of Arts - Spanish Language and Literature
Middlebury College
Diploma de Estudios Hispánicos -
Universidad Complutense
Bachelor of Arts - Communication
Augsburg College
International Business Studies -
Kent State University
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