Kari Brown

An innovative teacher who creates individualized lesson plans promoting the intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth of students. Adapts instructional strategies to meet various learning needs and objectives. Student-centric instructor with an unwavering commitment to optimizing success.

I was in the second grade for my first practicum in a private school setting in Effingham IL. I was in the third grade for my second practicum in a public school setting in Mattoon, IL. I student taught in Villa Grove, IL. My first eight weeks I was in the third grade and then I moved to Kindergarten for my second eight weeks. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to continue my time in my Kindergarten class as their classroom aide for the remainder of the school year. As I was an aide, I did a lot of subbing for both Kindergarten classes. I did a month long job for one of the Kindergarten classes for a very long sick leave. I was a member of Math Energy in the Spring of 2010-Summer-2010. I was also a member of the Illinois Reading Council for two years, where I also was secretary for one semester. I have observed in many school settings, including Head Start. I have also volunteered to help with the Special Olympics during one of my spring semesters at Eastern. While I was student teaching I volunteered many times to stay after school for certain activities and I helped out wherever I was needed. During my time at Lake Crest elementary, I have been in numerous leadership positions. I helped plan our after school program that we have offered to students the last two years. I am our OEA current President. I was able to be on our negotiation team for our next teacher contract. I also volunteered to help new incoming teachers get well adapted to our school. I have piloted and researched different curriculums in my classroom. I love using different types of resources for learning that are hands-on. I believe change is a necessary tool that can be beneficial for everyone as long as we can work together as a team. I was granted tenure here at Oakland in 2020. I love working in Oakland and I had planned to stay here until I retire. However, my husband and I moved to Tuscola and we are hoping that I can find somewhere closer to our home for a permanent position.

• OEA negotiation team
• After-school tutoring instructor
• Currently studying for my reading specialist certification