Katie Zarka
Beacon Falls,CT
Summary
Art education professional with proven track record in fostering creativity and skill development. Adept at developing engaging lesson plans, guiding students through artistic techniques, and encouraging self-expression. Known for strong collaboration with colleagues and adapting to evolving classroom needs. Possesses expertise in various art mediums, classroom management, and student mentorship.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Art Instructor
Abrakadoodle Art Studio
Trumbull, CT
06.2023 - Current
- Teach educational art classes to children ages 20 months-12 years of age using the Abrakadoodle curriculum, teaching sequence and philosophy, maintain all materials in good condition and inform franchise director office of all supply needs, maintain continual communication, build rapport and interface with school/site directors, principals and parents.
Art Teacher
St. Andrew Academy
Bridgeport, CT
09.2025 - 06.2026
- Teach educational art classes in a K-8 school setting using the Abrakadoodle curriculum, teaching sequence and philosophy, maintain all materials in good condition and inform franchise director office of all supply needs, maintain continual communication, build rapport and interface with school/site directors, principals and parents.
- Evaluated student progress and provided constructive feedback to support artistic development.
- Organized art showcases to display student work, promoting community involvement and appreciation for the arts.
Student Teacher
Stepney Elementary School
Monroe, CT
03.2025 - 05.2025
- In student teaching, I established rapport with students in grades K-5. I aided in and eventually became lead teacher in each class, teaching them foundational elements in art that are either tied in with a technical skill or master artists.
- Collaborated with lead teachers to assess student progress and adjust instructional methods accordingly.
- Facilitated small group activities and one-on-one instruction to meet individual student needs.
Mentor
Saturday Art Workshop
New Britain, CT
03.2025 - 05.2025
- Guiding two prospective teachers edit their lesson plans to focus on meaningful student learning along with modifying procedures to help facilitate learning and smooth transition between activities in the classroom, as well as helping them with classroom management.
Job Title
Wilbur Cross High School
New Haven, CT
01.2025 - 03.2025
- In student teaching, I established rapport with students in grades 9-12. I aided in and eventually became lead teacher in a ceramics class, as well as two foundation classes of various language abilities (one primarily English, one primarily Spanish). I created unique lesson plans to present to the students, and managed classes from 20-27 students each.
Art Instructor
Saturday Art Workshop
New Britain, CT
03.2024 - 05.2024
- As part of a saturday art class, it included implementing and creating lessons for kindergarten-age students. I was able to plan and implement age appropriate and content rich lessons to her students.
Education
PREK-12 Certification - Art Certification
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT01.2025
B.S. - Art Therapy
Long Island University Post
Greenvale, New York05.2023
Skills
- Time management
- Flexible
- Quick Learner
- Good with Feedback
- Spanish-language learner
- Fluent with Adobe Photoshop, Acrobat, and Illustrator
- Curriculum design
Certification
VIRTUS Certified for Bridgeport Diocese
Timeline
Art Teacher
St. Andrew Academy
09.2025 - 06.2026
Student Teacher
Stepney Elementary School
03.2025 - 05.2025
Mentor
Saturday Art Workshop
03.2025 - 05.2025
Job Title
Wilbur Cross High School
01.2025 - 03.2025
Art Instructor
Saturday Art Workshop
03.2024 - 05.2024
Art Instructor
Abrakadoodle Art Studio
06.2023 - Current
PREK-12 Certification - Art Certification
Central Connecticut State University
B.S. - Art Therapy
Long Island University Post