Leah Jolly
Carlsbad,CA
Summary
Motivated and creative Instructional Designer with over a decade of teaching experience and a passion for developing engaging, learner-centered training materials. Skilled in designing digital and blended learning using educational technology and modern instructional design principles. Possesses working knowledge of ADDIE and SAM frameworks to guide effective learning design from analysis through evaluation. Eager to partner cross-functionally to create meaningful, data-driven learning experiences that drive engagement and performance outcomes.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Owner & Stylist
Looks by Leah
Encinitas, CA
07.2025 - Current
- Founded and manage an independent beauty business offering customized hair styling, color services, and treatments.
- Provide makeup artistry for weddings, photoshoots, and professional events, maintaining impeccable attention to client goals and aesthetics.
- Oversee marketing, scheduling, and social media brand management to drive client engagement and retention.
- Build lasting client relationships through consultative communication and exceptional personalized service.
Stylist
Ulta Beauty & Drybar
Oceanside & Encinitas, CA
07.2024 - 08.2025
- Delivered professional client services in fast-paced, collaborative environments.
- Strengthened communication and instructional skills through client product education.
- Maintained high satisfaction and strong client retention rates.
Grade 2 Teacher
Community Charter School of Paterson
Paterson, NJ
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Designed and implemented dynamic, standards-based lesson plans in Math, Literacy, and Science.
- Applied technology-driven instruction using SMART Boards, GoGuardian, and Google Classroom.
- Used data analysis to adjust instructional approaches for improved performance.
- Promoted collaboration and higher-order thinking through project-based learning.
- Partnered with parents and administrators to create individualized learning plans aligned with student needs.
Grade 2 Teacher
Success Academy
Bronx, NY
11.2022 - 06.2023
- Delivered engaging instruction to classes of 30–35 students using innovative pedagogical practices.
- Increased Math Spiral scores by 63% and literacy levels by two reading levels in one term.
- Co-taught targeted Math and Literacy interventions supporting individual student growth.
- Maintained proactive communication with parents to ensure academic progress.
Activities and Volunteer Coordinator
Sunrise Senior Living
New City, NY
09.2021 - 08.2022
- Designed and coordinated resident activity programs to support physical, social, and mental well-being.
- Increased participation by 50% through creative programming and volunteer partnerships.
- Managed operations, budgets, and event logistics for internal and community activities.
Assistant Activity Director
Atria Senior Living
New City, NY
11.2020 - 09.2021
- Created and delivered enrichment programs to support wellness and community engagement.
- Implemented adaptive activities for diverse physical and cognitive needs.
- Supported staff coordination and leadership of larger community events.
Barber
Just4Him
West Point Academy, NY
01.2019 - 03.2020
- Provided precision haircuts and grooming services with consistent attention to client preferences.
- Built repeat clientele through relationship development and excellent service delivery.
Grade 7 Teacher
K12 California Virtual Academies (CAVA)
Oxnard, CA
08.2016 - 06.2017
- Facilitated virtual courses in Math, History, and English using K12 Online Learning and Blackboard LMS.
- Developed interactive digital lessons and used gamification to improve engagement.
- Evaluated data to determine learning trends and refine instructional design.
Grades 9–11 Teacher
Hueneme High School
Oxnard, CA
08.2013 - 06.2016
- Taught U.S. and World History, Health, and English coursework for grades 9–11.
- Directed student programs and performances promoting collaboration and creativity.
- Organized field experiences to connect academic content with real-world application.
- Earlier Roles: Held multiple teaching positions across grades 4–10 in California public schools, developing cross-curricular projects, differentiated instruction, and classroom management strategies foundational to instructional design practice.
Education
Master of Education - Cross-Cultural Education
National University
La Jolla, CABachelor of Liberal Studies - Minor in Music
California State University, Chico
Chico, CASkills
- Instructional Design (ADDIE, SAM, eLearning)
- Learning Management Systems (Canvas, Blackboard, Google Classroom)
- Curriculum and Content Development
- Digital Learning & EdTech Integration
- Data-Driven Learning Analysis
- Project-Based Learning & Assessment Design
- Leadership, Communication, and Collaboration
- Business and Client Relationship Management
Certification
- Highly Qualified in Math, Science, and Social Sciences
- Proficient in Educational and Instructional Technology Tools
Timeline
Owner & Stylist
Looks by Leah
07.2025 - Current
Stylist
Ulta Beauty & Drybar
07.2024 - 08.2025
Grade 2 Teacher
Community Charter School of Paterson
08.2023 - 06.2024
Grade 2 Teacher
Success Academy
11.2022 - 06.2023
Activities and Volunteer Coordinator
Sunrise Senior Living
09.2021 - 08.2022
Assistant Activity Director
Atria Senior Living
11.2020 - 09.2021
Barber
Just4Him
01.2019 - 03.2020
Grade 7 Teacher
K12 California Virtual Academies (CAVA)
08.2016 - 06.2017
Grades 9–11 Teacher
Hueneme High School
08.2013 - 06.2016
Bachelor of Liberal Studies - Minor in Music
California State University, Chico
Master of Education - Cross-Cultural Education
National University