Leslie Harwell
Raeford,United States
Summary
Curriculum and Instruction specialist with experience designing standards-aligned learning experiences in social studies, science, and English Language Arts. Skilled in curriculum development, assessment design, and data-driven instructional planning. Background in communications and broadcast journalism, with expertise in creating clear, engaging content for diverse audiences. Experienced in leading instructional initiatives, mentoring educators, and developing learning materials that support student growth and comprehension.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Instructional Designer | Educator
West Hoke Middle School
Raeford, NC
08.2016 - Current
- Designed and implemented standards-aligned curriculum for middle grades social studies, science, and English Language Arts
- Developed instructional materials, assessments, and learning activities to support student understanding and engagement
- Delivered instruction in both virtual and in-person environments, adapting content for multiple learning formats
- Designed and taught 8th grade science, a state-tested subject, achieving expected or higher student growth based on state value-added measures
- Used student performance data to refine curriculum and improve learning outcomes
- Collaborated with colleagues to align curriculum, pacing, and instructional strategies
- Served as Grade Level Chair, leading team planning and curriculum alignment
- Mentored beginning teachers, providing guidance on curriculum development, instructional strategies, and classroom management
- Contributed to school improvement initiatives through data analysis and strategic planning
Social Studies Teacher
Sandy Grove Middle School
Lumber Bridge, NC
08.2012 - 08.2013
- Designed and delivered standards-aligned social studies curriculum for middle grades learners
- Developed cross-curricular instructional materials integrating literacy and content-area learning
- Led Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to support instructional improvement and collaboration
- Mentored and supported 35+ beginning teachers, providing coaching on curriculum planning and instructional strategies
- Analyzed student data to guide instructional decisions and support academic growth
Social Studies Teacher
West Hoke Middle School
Raeford, NC
08.2012 - 06.2013
- Developed and implemented instructional units aligned to curriculum standards
- Created assessments and used data to monitor student progress and inform instruction
- Provided differentiated instruction to meet diverse learner needs
- Facilitated small group and individualized instruction to support comprehension and skill development
Broadcast Journalist & Video Editor
United States Army
Fort Hood, TX
06.2006 - 10.2010
- Produced and edited video content using Avid Media Composer
- Translated complex information into clear, engaging content for diverse audiences
- Conducted interviews and developed structured narratives to communicate key messages
- Applied storytelling and visual communication techniques to enhance audience understanding
- Managed print shop operations in a deployed environment, supervising two personnel and coordinating production workflow
Education
Master of Science - Curriculum And Instruction
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN07-2022
Bachelor of Arts - Communication
Thomas Edison State College
Trenton12-2010
Skills
Instructional Design
Curriculum Development
Assessment Design
Standards Alignment
Content Development
Literacy Instruction
Data Analysis
Educational Technology
Learning Experience Design
Training & Development
Collaboration
Mentoring
Multimedia Content Creation
Video Editing
Storytelling
Visual Communication
Certification
- Licensed, NC, Middle Grades 2014-Presesnt
Timeline
Instructional Designer | Educator
West Hoke Middle School
08.2016 - Current
Social Studies Teacher
Sandy Grove Middle School
08.2012 - 08.2013
Social Studies Teacher
West Hoke Middle School
08.2012 - 06.2013
Broadcast Journalist & Video Editor
United States Army
06.2006 - 10.2010
Master of Science - Curriculum And Instruction
Capella University
Bachelor of Arts - Communication
Thomas Edison State College