Makaya McKnight
Educator
West Lafayette,OH
Summary
Experienced with engaging students in social studies through interactive and thought-provoking lessons. Utilizes innovative teaching strategies to promote active learning and critical thinking. Strong understanding of curriculum development and classroom management to create effective educational experience.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Social Studies Student Teacher
River View High School
02.2026 - 03.2026
- Planned and implemented integrated Social Studies lessons to meet Ohio State Curriculum Standards.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, creating a safe and respectful learning environment conducive to collaboration and open discussion.
- Adapted lessons for diverse learner needs, ensuring accessibility and comprehension for all students.
- Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, fostering a comprehensive learning experience for students.
- Cultivated a culture of inquiry by consistently posing thought-provoking questions during class discussions and one-on-one interactions with students.
- Developed engaging activities that incorporated real-world examples, promoting student interest in social studies subject matter.
- Established strong rapport with students and colleagues to foster positive relationships within the school community.
- Utilized technology to enhance student education and grasp of materials.
- Consulted with teachers in other disciplines to identify and adopt successful instructional strategies.
Intern
The Spot Clinic
12.2022 - 04.2023
- Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden and allowing for increased focus on higher-priority assignments.
- Gained valuable experience working within a specific industry, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.
- Gained hands-on experience in various software programs, increasing proficiency and expanding technical skill set.
- Helped with research assignments and various administrative tasks.
GED Tutor Volunteer
South Baldwin Literacy Council
11.2023 - 10.2024
- Followed a GED curriculum and created a supplementary curriculum addressing all subject areas covered in the exam.
- Increased student confidence in their abilities through consistent positive reinforcement and encouragement.
- Monitored student progress closely, adjusting instruction as needed to ensure continuous improvement, and provided review sessions after each unit.
- Kept detailed records of each student's progress, allowing for targeted interventions when appropriate.
- Built strong relationships with students, fostering trust and open communication to create an effective learning environment.
- Collaborated with fellow tutors to share best practices and develop more effective teaching strategies.
- Provided support for students with diverse backgrounds, adapting teaching methods to meet individual needs.
- Managed time effectively during tutoring sessions, ensuring all relevant topics were covered thoroughly within allotted session times.
Substitute Teacher
Orange Beach City Schools
04.2023 - 03.2024
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Boosted student engagement with interactive lessons, incorporating real-world examples and hands-on activities.
- Enhanced classroom management by implementing positive reinforcement strategies and maintaining clear expectations for behavior.
Education
Master's in Education - 7-12 Intergrated Social Studies Licensure
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon 05.2001 -
Bachelor of Applied And Technical Studies - History, Psychology, Business
Kent State University
Kent, OH 05.2001 -
Associate of Science - Science
Kent State University
Kent, OH 05.2001 -
Skills
- Student engagement
- Peer evaluation
- Collaborative learning
- Adaptive teaching
- Visual aids creation
- Lesson plan implementation
- Verbal and written communication
- Behavior modeling
- Discussion facilitation
- Proficient in Kahoot, Padlet, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, Google Applications, and Canva
- Interactive learning
- Multitasking Abilities
- Background in tutoring Math, Social Studies, and Language Arts
Timeline
Social Studies Student Teacher
River View High School
02.2026 - 03.2026
GED Tutor Volunteer
South Baldwin Literacy Council
11.2023 - 10.2024
Substitute Teacher
Orange Beach City Schools
04.2023 - 03.2024
Intern
The Spot Clinic
12.2022 - 04.2023
Master's in Education - 7-12 Intergrated Social Studies Licensure
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Applied And Technical Studies - History, Psychology, Business
Kent State University
05.2001 -
Associate of Science - Science
Kent State University
05.2001 -