KEISHA D. TWITTY
Educational Leader/Instructor
Elmhurst,IL
Summary
Accomplished international educator and mindfulness expert with a Master's in Educational Leadership from St. Vincent DePaul University, specializing in transcendent leadership, values creation, and global citizenship. Demonstrated success in leading diverse teams, fostering positive work environments, and driving organizational success through a commitment to continuous professional development. Passionate about leveraging educational insights and leadership expertise to support doctoral research focused on cultivating values-driven citizenship. Prepared to contribute to innovative initiatives that promote holistic learning and community engagement.
Professional educator and researcher prepared for role with strong background in fostering student development and managing classroom dynamics. Valued for ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and adapt to changing needs. Skilled in lesson planning, classroom management, and engaging diverse student populations. Known for reliability, excellent communication, and results-driven approach. Knowledgeable educator with background in leadership training and development. Demonstrated success in designing and implementing programs that enhance team performance and collaborative relationships. Proven ability to foster collaborative environments and adapt strategies to meet evolving organizational and student needs.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Permanent Substitute Teacher
Elmhurst District 205-Churchville Middle School
Elmhurst, IL
10.2025 - Current
- Delivered student-centered and culturally relevant instruction in a Title 1 middle school.
- Delivered engaging lessons across various subjects, adapting materials to meet diverse student needs.
- Maintained classroom management, fostering a positive learning environment conducive to academic success.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Provided individualized support to students requiring additional assistance, promoting skill development and confidence.
Adjunct Faculty; College of Education Office of Professional Learning
DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
01.2024 - Current
- Assisted aspiring educators through mentorship and professional development programs. Supported the creation of inclusive learning environments for future teachers. Promoted equity, diversity, and inclusion to foster supportive spaces for emerging teacher leaders.
- Instructor, International Baccalaureate Educator Certificate (IBEC) Program in Leadership Practices Designed and delivered curriculum to equip pre-service, new, and experienced educators with reflective teaching practices and teacher-researcher skills, preparing them for effective instruction within the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).
- Oversaw and mentored pre-service teachers during clinical placements, ensuring effective supervision and guidance.
- Coach candidates in instructional planning, classroom management, differentiation, and culturally responsive practice.
- Conduct evaluation conferences aligned to professional standards and collaborate with cooperating teachers to support candidate growth and certification readiness.
- Versatile professional with strong problem-solving skills and history of adapting to diverse challenges. Applies innovative solutions and technical expertise to deliver exceptional results. Committed to streamlining processes and advancing organizational objectives.
Substitute Teacher
Salt Creek District 48
Villa Park, Illinois
10.2021 - 07.2025
- Serve as a District-Wide Substitute Teacher, ensuring the seamless continuation of instruction across multiple schools.
- Demonstrated adaptability by effectively teaching various subjects and grade levels, maintaining classroom management, and engaging students in the learning process.
- Adhered to lesson plans, collaborated with staff, and upheld district policies to foster a positive and productive educational environment.
Permanent District Substitute Teacher Pre-K - 8
Hillside District 93
Hillside, IL
12.2024 - 05.2025
- Selected as the district’s only permanent substitute teacher in a K–8 school serving ~500 students and 60 educators, providing reliable instructional continuity.
- Delivered instruction across PK–8 classrooms, frequently rotating across multiple grade levels within the same day to meet urgent staffing needs.
- Ensured continuity of curriculum, classroom management, and learning objectives across diverse subjects and developmental stages.
- Maintained stable and inclusive learning environments for a diverse student population, minimizing disruption to instructional time during staff absences.
Principal Intern
Stella May Swartz School
Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois
04.2024 - 06.2024
- Through this internship, I gained valuable insights into the complexities of managing a school and developed a strong commitment to fostering a positive and effective educational environment. Key duties included: Administrative Support, instructional leadership, data analysis, staff development, and community engagement.
Principal Intern
Alcott College Preparatory High School
Chicago, Illinois
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Assisted Principal in developing an Action Research team within the Special Education department to target specific school-wide goals. Collaborated with local stakeholders and community organizations to devise and implement support and funding. Led a team of six teachers in the planning and execution of bi-lingual parent induction. Conducted research and gathered data addressing truancy issues in grade 12.
Grade 1 Teacher, English, Social Studies, Science, Art
Nazarbayev Intellectual School – Astana International
Astana, Kazakhstan
08.2013 - 05.2014
- Delivered high-quality instruction to non-English speaking exceptional students following the International Primary Program in conjunction with Cambridge Primary Curriculum. Assisted in coaching local teachers, providing support in understanding the accreditation process and developing curricula.
Grade 3 Teacher, Ghayathi Boys School
Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC)
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
11.2011 - 03.2012
- Taught grade 3 core curriculum in a newly restructured school district using the New School Model, leading to increased student engagement and academic achievement. Supported local teachers through a teacher training program, assisting them in refining teaching methods and advancing their English language skills.
Grade 2 Teacher
Glenelg Abu Dhabi School, ADNOC
Abu Dhabi, UAE
08.2011 - 01.2012
- Collaborated with the SEN department to develop a model delivering instruction based on the Individual Education Plan (IEP). Administered scheduled grade group formal assessments aligned with American Common Core Standards and Next Generation Science Standards, utilizing the results to inform curriculum development and tailor classroom instruction.
English Language Learner Consultant, Grade 9
Bremen High School District 228
Midlothian, Illinois
09.2010 - 06.2011
- Partnered with the ELL team to establish learning objectives and milestones for a newly established special needs program, guaranteeing quality education for English language learners with unique requirements. Delivered detailed resources, plans, and support materials to meet the needs of a diverse student body. Maintained compliance with state regulations and Board of Education policies, maintaining a comprehensive understanding of legal obligations and their practical application.
Fifth Grade Teacher, Cambridge English & SOSE
Mahatama Gandhi Taman Rama School
Bali, Indonesia
07.2009 - 01.2010
- Delivered dynamic and tailored instruction, employing differentiated teaching methods to accommodate students' varied learning styles and needs. Designed and executed progressive social studies curriculum objectives integrating geography, Indonesian history, and ethical principles to deepen students' comprehension and appreciation of the subject matter.
First Grade Primary Years Program Teacher
Shanghai United International School
Shanghai, China
08.2008 - 07.2009
- Aligned with six trans-disciplinary themes, collaborated with a Chinese co-teacher to design and deliver Units of Inquiry lessons, fostering cross-cultural understanding and teamwork. Tailored English and Western math instruction to support PYP learning structures using UK curriculum and resources. Actively pursue professional growth by seeking continuous learning opportunities and staying abreast of educational best practices to enhance teaching effectiveness.
Second Grade Teacher
Misr American College
Maadi, Egypt
01.2003 - 07.2007
- Taught and mentored second-grade students in the core curriculum, structured and delivered comprehensive whole language units, and partnered with CITA Middle States accreditation teams to design a revised school curriculum for international recognition.
Family Educator/Counselor
Maryville Academy Center For Children
Chicago, Illinois
03.1999 - 10.2000
- Enhanced the social and emotional development of a diverse group of children who have experienced abuse by employing evidence-based methods such as rationale explanation, role-playing exercises, and positive reinforcement.
- Coordinated and co-instructed children facing emotional and learning challenges across diverse educational environments, including self-contained classrooms, open educational spaces, and residential group living.
- Supported individuals dealing with mental health and emotional issues.
Education
Master of Science - Value-Creating Education and Global Citizenship
St. Vincent DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois03-2026
M.Ed - Educational Leadership
St. Vincent DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois01-2024
Mindfulness Teacher Training Program - Mindfulness, Equity, SEL
Mindful Schools
Emery, California01-2022
M.Ed. - Educational Leadership
American College of Education
Indianapolis, Indiana01-2018
B.S. - Elementary Education
St. Vincent DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois01-2003
Skills
- Program leadership and coordination
- Classroom management strategies
- Co-teaching
- Professional development
- Teacher training
- Instructional approaches
- Course design
- Teaching strategies
- Relationship building
- Student needs assessments
- School accreditation process
Accomplishments
- Completed extra training to further help students under care.
- Took all offered shifts to maintain coverage for students
- Specialized in substituting for self-contained classes.
Certification
- State of Illinois Type 3 Certificate; Endorsements: Language Arts; Self-Contained General Ed (KG-9); Social Science; Valid: 2028
- State of Mississippi SEL Educators License; Endorsements; Elementary K-6,
Middle School Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, Science (7-8): - Mindful Schools, Emery, California: Mindfulness Teaching Certification; 2022
- Triton College, Morton Grove, Illinois: Grant Writing A to Z Certificate; 2011
Timeline
Permanent Substitute Teacher
Elmhurst District 205-Churchville Middle School
10.2025 - Current
Permanent District Substitute Teacher Pre-K - 8
Hillside District 93
12.2024 - 05.2025
Principal Intern
Stella May Swartz School
04.2024 - 06.2024
Adjunct Faculty; College of Education Office of Professional Learning
DePaul University
01.2024 - Current
Substitute Teacher
Salt Creek District 48
10.2021 - 07.2025
Principal Intern
Alcott College Preparatory High School
01.2017 - 01.2018
Grade 1 Teacher, English, Social Studies, Science, Art
Nazarbayev Intellectual School – Astana International
08.2013 - 05.2014
Grade 3 Teacher, Ghayathi Boys School
Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC)
11.2011 - 03.2012
Grade 2 Teacher
Glenelg Abu Dhabi School, ADNOC
08.2011 - 01.2012
English Language Learner Consultant, Grade 9
Bremen High School District 228
09.2010 - 06.2011
Fifth Grade Teacher, Cambridge English & SOSE
Mahatama Gandhi Taman Rama School
07.2009 - 01.2010
First Grade Primary Years Program Teacher
Shanghai United International School
08.2008 - 07.2009
Second Grade Teacher
Misr American College
01.2003 - 07.2007
Family Educator/Counselor
Maryville Academy Center For Children
03.1999 - 10.2000
Master of Science - Value-Creating Education and Global Citizenship
St. Vincent DePaul University
M.Ed - Educational Leadership
St. Vincent DePaul University
M.Ed. - Educational Leadership
American College of Education
B.S. - Elementary Education
St. Vincent DePaul University
Mindfulness Teacher Training Program - Mindfulness, Equity, SEL
Mindful Schools
Educational Awards
The Jerry and Katherine and Christensen Scholarship Award; DePaul University, 2024 An accolade awarded to distinguished graduate students in the College of Education who exhibit outstanding academic performance while demonstrating exceptional leadership through service to Catholic organizations. These Special Awards, nominated by the College of Education faculty and staff, recognize students who have excelled and made significant contributions during their research at DePaul University.
Presentations and Workshops
- Designing Instruction That Makes Learning Successful For All Students, Harcourt International, Cairo (2003)
- Eight-Hour Staff Development Workshop sponsored by the Middle East Association of National Schools (2004)
- Improve Teaching Effectiveness and Increase Student Learning by Harry Wong, MEANS Presenter (2005)
- Critical Thinking CITA Five Star Conference, Cairo(2005)
- Some Thoughts on Student Discipline, In-service, Cairo( 2006)
- Transcendental Meditation Course, Cairo (2006)
- Observing Classroom Enactments of CREDE’s Standards for Effective Pedagogy, Cairo (2007)
- English Language Learners (ELL) in the Mainstream (2007)
- Making the PYP Happen, Shanghai (2008)
- New School Model, UAE (2011)
- Eckhart Tolle 8-week Spiritual Consciousness Course, USA (2020)