KARISSA DAVENPORT
Bethlehem,Georgia
Summary
Dynamic curriculum leader with over a decade of experience in middle school science, curriculum design, and teacher leadership. Committed to fostering equitable learning environments through the implementation of research-based instructional practices and standards-based grading. Strong advocate for building positive relationships with students to enhance motivation and resilience, ensuring the development of essential skills and emotional intelligence for lifelong success. Passionate about empowering all students to become self-reliant and successful citizens in an ever-evolving world.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Science Teacher & Curriculum Chair
Dacula Middle School
Dacula, GA
01.2021 - Current
- Design and deliver standards-aligned instruction across physical, Earth, and space sciences, using inquiry-based learning, digital simulations, and hands-on investigations to promote critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and student engagement.
- Facilitate student-centered learning through high-quality Tier 1 instruction that provides opportunities for collaboration and , and other learning opportunities that encourage collaboration, curiosity, and problem-solving.
- Utilize formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress, drive instructional adjustments, and provide targeted feedback that supports student growth.
- Lead 6th grade science team in curriculum planning, pacing, and assessment alignment to ensure instructional coherence and consistency across classes.
- Serve as interdisciplinary team leader, facilitating weekly data analysis, consistent communication with families, and adherence to school expectations.
- Mentor teachers participating in GCPS Gifted and Teach Gwinnett Cohorts.
- Provide differentiated instruction, remediation, and enrichment for 120+ students (including Gifted and Multilingual Learners).
Science Teacher & Curriculum Chair
Trickum Middle School
Lilburn, GA
01.2014 - 01.2021
- Served as 6th grade science curriculum chair for 4 years.
- Served as a mentor to as many as five new employees in one year, both locally and through the Teach Gwinnett program.
- Provided differentiated instruction for a variety of student needs (including Gifted, SPED, and MLL).
- Lead schoolwide PBIS initiative as Trickum’s Advisement Coordinator.
- Served as Trickum’s PAGE representative, TAC representative, and United Way representative to bridge gaps between county, teachers, and community.
- Piloted, implemented, and led professional development on standards-based grading practices.
Assistant Manager
Taylor Brooks Salon & Spa
Johns Creek, GA
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Managed a staff and coordinated the schedules of ten stylists, two estheticians, and two assistants to accommodate customer needs.
- Designed and implemented monthly product and service promotions.
- Maintained inventory and product sales reports.
- Resolved customer discrepancies.
Prenatal Case Manager
East Metro Health District
Buford, GA
01.2004 - 01.2006
- Collaborated with DFACS and local organizations to provide health coverage, food assistance, and other essential resources for pregnant or postpartum women and their children.
- Corresponded with public health officials to prepare a monthly adolescent immunization report, which ranked the highest accuracy in the state of Georgia.
Education
ALP Cohort 11 -
GCPS
01.2020
MA - Secondary Science
Piedmont College
01.2017
BA - Secondary Science
The University of Georgia
01.2014
Skills
- Faculty collaboration and support
- Inquiry-based learning
- Technology integration
- Classroom management
Timeline
Science Teacher & Curriculum Chair
Dacula Middle School
01.2021 - Current
Science Teacher & Curriculum Chair
Trickum Middle School
01.2014 - 01.2021
Assistant Manager
Taylor Brooks Salon & Spa
01.2007 - 01.2009
Prenatal Case Manager
East Metro Health District
01.2004 - 01.2006
MA - Secondary Science
Piedmont College
BA - Secondary Science
The University of Georgia
ALP Cohort 11 -
GCPS
EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
- 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year Trickum Middle School
- Georgia T-5 Certificate Current through 2024
- Gifted Certificate Current through 2023
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Attended the PLC at Work Summit by Solution Tree Summit at the World Congress Center in 2019
- Attended the Google in the Classroom Conference in 2016