Katherine Maritz
University Place,WA
Summary
Patient and dedicated ELD Specialist adept at developing and promoting interactive and inclusive learning throughout various disciplines. Experienced working with children and adults from a wide array of cultural backgrounds to teach language skills.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
ELD Specialist and Teacher
Franklin Pierce School District
Parkland , WA
2022.08 - Current
- Serves eligible Multilingual Learners (MLLs) through regular co-planning, co-teaching, and push-in support.
- Instructs Newcomer, Intermediate, and Advanced classes with prescribed ELD curriculum.
- Encourages asset-based learning, leveraging linguistic and cultural backgrounds of students.
- Ensures equitable access to curricula through Culturally Relevant practices and Universal Design, with grounding beliefs in student voice and choice.
- Utilizes district-approved diagnostics to evaluate student strengths, opportunities for growth, and next steps.
- Co-creates language goals with students to determine their strengths and growth opportunities.
- Builds various learning pathways and provides points of access based on WIDA Can-Do descriptors to ensure language progress, so all students can meet rigorous expectations.
- Provides timely feedback to students, staff, and parents for continuous growth.
- Organizes documentation needs for MLLs, such as with: Service rosters & monthly counts, WIDA Screeners and Annual Access, and Program enrollment or continuation forms.
- Plans and conducts WIDA assessments.
- Coordinates schedules for ELD paraprofessionals, teachers, and student cohorts/groups.
- Assesses and performs site professional development needs alongside Teaching and Learning Department.
- Guides teachers toward effective instructional practices and WIDA integration for equitable MLL access.
- Partners with parents around program progress and community services.
- Participates in reviewing and implementing instructional materials used in core content areas.
- Increased WIDA Access reclassification or exiting rate by 3%.
ELD Teacher
Palmdale School District
Palmdale , CA
2021.08 - 2022.05
- Maintained and monitored Multilingual Learner data via ELLevation, such as English Language Proficiency Assessments of California (ELPAC) scores.
- Made informed decisions based on scores to differentiate groupings and address individualized needs for continued progress toward student language goals, and state and district-wide reclassification criteria.
- Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored for Multilingual Learners, such as through English 3D, Imagine Learning, and GLAD strategies.
- Increased MLL literacy by two grade levels through Renaissance Accelerated Reader.
- Proposed and received grant funding for leveled texts with emphasis on cultural inclusion.
- Managed Multilingual Learner progress monitoring forms and documentation.
- Administered ELPAC testing and assisted in scheduling.
- Communicated clearly with staff to uphold district-wide plans and expectations through weekly meetings and regular check-ins.
- Coordinated and collaborated monthly English Learner Advisory Committee meetings alongside parents.
6th Grade English Teacher
Palmdale School District
Palmdale , CA
2020.08 - 2021.05
- Established safe learning environments via Capturing Kids Hearts, such as with class social contracts.
- Boosted student participation in class discussions through Kagan Cooperative Learning strategies.
- Cultivated strong support networks for students through partnerships with guardians, teachers, and administrators.
7th & 8th English Teacher
Wilsona School District
Palmdale , CA
2019.08 - 2020.06
- Combined station-based and blended learning to meet diverse needs.
- Implemented accommodations for MLLs and differentiation for students with IEPs through intentional scaffolding for intervention classes.
- Employed inquiry-based learning for increased student engagement.
- Became certified and co-created TEAL/SCALE UP! MTSS Arts Collective district-wide five-year plan with Arts Collective team, for focus on arts integration for STEAM.
- Participated in multiple grade-level representation for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
5th Grade Multiple Subjects Teacher
Wilsona School District
Palmdale , CA
2018.08 - 2019.06
- Enhanced classroom engagement through interactive teaching methods, such as group projects, hands-on activities, and total physical response.
- Identified struggling students early on and provided additional support through tutoring sessions and modified lesson plans.
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
- Connected with guardians and encouraged partnership in their child's learning.
STEAM Advisor
Summer at Brown
Providence , RI
2018.06 - 2018.08
- Encouraged student interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) through construction and facilitation of STEAM-integrated lessons for middle school and high school students who aspire to attend Brown University.
- Established clear expectations for behavior and academic performance for cohorts of middle and high schoolers.
- Maintained positive rapport with all students and guardians through team-building activities, student-centered learning, collective input, and reflective practices.
6th Grade English and Social Studies Teacher
Life Source International Charter School
Lancaster , CA
2016.01 - 2018.01
- Modified lessons and curricula to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
- Worked with individual teachers to accomplish English Department goals and requirements, as department lead.
- Communicated frequently with guardians, students, and faculty to provide feedback and discuss instructional strategies.
- Boosted cultural awareness by incorporating children's literature from world cultures.
- Empowered students through Associated Student Body.
- Created and connected with my community through cultural celebrations, projects, and events.
Education
Clear Multiple Subject Credential -
Brandman University
Palmdale, CA01.2022
Clear Single Subject English -
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA01.2017
English BA, Linguistics Minor -
California State University, Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA01.2014
Skills
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
- Faculty Collaboration and Support
- WIDA Framework
- Equitable Access for MLLs
- Curricula Development and Implementation
- Relationship Building
Additional Information
English Language Development
English Language Arts
Technology Enhanced Arts Learning (TEAL) Certified
College Reading & Learning Association (CRLA): Basic, Advanced, and Master tutor
Certificated Yoga Teacher
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
ELD Specialist and Teacher
Franklin Pierce School District
2022.08 - Current
ELD Teacher
Palmdale School District
2021.08 - 2022.05
6th Grade English Teacher
Palmdale School District
2020.08 - 2021.05
7th & 8th English Teacher
Wilsona School District
2019.08 - 2020.06
5th Grade Multiple Subjects Teacher
Wilsona School District
2018.08 - 2019.06
STEAM Advisor
Summer at Brown
2018.06 - 2018.08
6th Grade English and Social Studies Teacher
Life Source International Charter School
2016.01 - 2018.01
Clear Multiple Subject Credential -
Brandman University
Clear Single Subject English -
San Diego State University
English BA, Linguistics Minor -
California State University, Bakersfield
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