Kristie Gonzales
San Antonio
Summary
Innovative educator with over 10 years of experience in general and special education. Currently a 4th Grade Science Teacher specializing in curriculum development and project-based learning. Founding teacher of a new campus, skilled in program development and fostering inclusive learning environments.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
4th Grade Science Teacher
Advanced Learning Academy
San Antonio
08.2025 - Current
- Design and deliver engaging, inquiry-based science lessons
- Delivered focused science instruction within a departmentalized 4th grade team
- Collaborate closely with grade-level team to align instruction and support student success
- Facilitated student success and academic growth during new curriculum implementation.
- Monitored student progress and communicated regularly with parents about achievements and areas for improvement.
- Continue integration of technology tools to enhance student learning
- Managed classroom environment to ensure safety and productivity for all students.
- Adapted teaching methods and instructional strategies to promote learning in students of differing skill levels.
- Attended workshops to enhance science teaching skills.
4th/5th Grade Math & Science Teacher (Founding Teacher)
Advanced Learning Academy
San Antonio
08.2016 - Current
- Selected as a founding teacher for a newly established campus; helped design curriculum, systems, and instructional practices from the ground up
- Developed and implemented project-based learning (PBL), 'wonder courses,' and interdisciplinary units to enhance student engagement and understanding
- Facilitated campus's transition to a fully departmentalized model, improving instructional focus and student learning outcomes
- Taught combined 4th/5th grade classes, later transitioning to separate grade levels and rotating subject instruction as the campus evolved
- Integrated differentiated instruction into the daily classroom routine to meet the needs of all learners.
- Developed and implemented hands-on learning activities to reinforce math and science concepts.
- Utilized data-driven instruction and educational platforms (Savvas, i-Ready, Zearn, IXL, Canvas, Google tools) to support student achievement
- Monitored student progress through regular assessments and feedback.
- Integrated technology resources to support interactive learning experiences.
- Created and organized grade-level exhibitions to showcase student learning, fostering community involvement and celebrating student achievements
- Collaborated with department and grade-level teams to continuously refine instruction
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding student performance and behavior.
Special Education Teacher (ALE & BAC Units)
Whittier Middle School
San Antonio
08.2011 - 07.2016
- Taught students with Autism in an ALE (Autism) unit and students with behavioral needs in a BAC (Behavior) unit
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to student needs, enhancing academic and behavioral outcomes
- Adapted curriculum materials for students with various disabilities.
- Ensured students developed essential social and life skills alongside academic growth
- Established structured, routine-based classrooms with clear expectations, fostering a supportive learning environment for diverse learners
- Supported higher-functioning students in transitioning and integrating into general education classrooms
- Collaborated with general education teachers, specialists, and families to meet diverse student needs
- Collaborated with speech therapists and occupational therapists to support student needs.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
Volleyball Coach
Whittier Middle School
San Antonio
2013 - 2016
- Instructed athletes on game strategies and techniques during practices and games.
- Designed drills to improve agility, strength, coordination, and stamina in volleyball players.
- Delivered targeted feedback on technique and strategy to support player skill advancement.
- Coordinated practice schedules to enhance athlete engagement and skill growth.
- Fostered a positive team environment through effective communication and leadership.
- Established rules for behavior during practice sessions and enforced those rules.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's progress in the sport.
Tennis Coach
Whittier Middle School
San Antonio
2013 - 2016
- Instructed students on tennis techniques and game strategies, enhancing their competitive performance.
- Evaluated student performance to adjust coaching methods and improve skills.
- Provided feedback on court positioning, shot selection, and footwork.
- Facilitated communication between parents and guardians to ensure clarity on team policies and procedures.
- Created positive learning environment that fostered skill development and personal growth among participants.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX12-2008
Skills
- Lesson planning
- Curriculum development
- Classroom management
- Differentiated instruction
- Special education instruction
- Project-based learning
- Google Workspace applications
- Canvas learning platform
- I-Ready assessment tools
- Zearn math program
- IXL learning platform
- Parent communication
- Team collaboration
- Communication and organization
- Budget management
- Event planning
- IXL learning platform
Certification
- EC-12 Special Education
- 4-8 Generalist
- 4-8 Mathematics
- 4-8 Science, In Progress, 04/26
- 7-12 Science, In Progress, 04/26
Accomplishments
- 3-Time Grant Recipient
- Teacher of the Year Nominee
Coaching Experience
Whittier Middle School, Volleyball Coach, 01/13, 12/16, Tennis Coach, 01/13, 12/16
Leadership Experience
- Founding Teacher, Advanced Learning Academy
- Sponsor, Animal Club
- Sponsor, Robotics Club
- Organizer of student exhibitions and campus events
Timeline
4th Grade Science Teacher
Advanced Learning Academy
08.2025 - Current
4th/5th Grade Math & Science Teacher (Founding Teacher)
Advanced Learning Academy
08.2016 - Current
Special Education Teacher (ALE & BAC Units)
Whittier Middle School
08.2011 - 07.2016
Volleyball Coach
Whittier Middle School
2013 - 2016
Tennis Coach
Whittier Middle School
2013 - 2016
Bachelor of Arts - Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Texas at San Antonio