Makena Sikorski
Rochester,NY
Summary
Dynamic instructional leader specializing in literacy development, adolescent reading intervention, and cross-regional ELA curriculum implementation. Proven track record in coaching educators, facilitating impactful professional development, and utilizing assessment data to enhance instructional systems and drive student achievement. Currently serving as Dean of Curriculum and Instruction, bringing a robust foundation in reading science, curriculum coherence, and educator growth to foster an environment of continuous improvement and academic excellence. Committed to empowering teachers and students through innovative strategies that promote effective learning outcomes.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Dean of Curriculum and Instruction
Uncommon Schools
Rochester, NY
04.2025 - Current
- Coached and developed teachers using data-driven instructional practices, resulting in measurable gains on internal assessments.
- Designed and led ELA curriculum implementation across five Uncommon School regions (Boston, NYC, Newark, Rochester, Camden).
- Facilitated regional professional development sessions attended by 50+ educators to strengthen literacy instruction.
- Partnered with school and regional leaders to streamline academic systems and ensure curriculum alignment.
- Developed and implemented academic programs to enhance student achievement and engagement.
Curriculum Planner
Uncommon Schools Curriculum and Assessment Team
Rochester, NY
- Current
- Conducted regular reviews of curricular resources, ensuring alignment with educational standards and objectives.
- Revised ELA curriculum materials across five Uncommon School regions, ensuring alignment to CCSS and regional pacing.
- Collaborated with instructional leaders to adjust scope and sequence documents, improving lesson pacing and content coherence.
Reading Intervention Lead
Uncommon Schools
Rochester, NY
- Current
- Adolescent reading intervention for below-grade-level 7th–8th grade students, designing and implementing targeted phonics and decoding instruction to accelerate foundational literacy skills.
- Oversee progress monitoring and data analysis, including regular DIBELS assessments, to adjust instruction, track growth, and support measurable gains in adolescent reading proficiency.
Instructional Leader
Uncommon Schools
Rochester, NY
05.2024 - 05.2025
- Provided instructional and management coaching to new and veteran teachers using a strength-based approach.
- Conducted classroom observations, provided actionable feedback, and analyzed student data to close learning gaps.
- Collaborated on full-school leadership initiatives to drive academic success.
6th Grade Teacher - Math and ELA
Uncommon Schools
Rochester, NY
08.2022 - 08.2025
- Facilitated a supportive learning environment that promoted teamwork and encouraged student involvement in classroom activities.
- Evaluated student data to identify trends and implement targeted interventions for enhanced learning outcomes.
- Designed and executed differentiated instruction strategies to enhance learning experiences.
Education
Master of Science in Education - Certification in Reading and Literacy (Birth-Grade 12)
State University of New York at Geneseo
Geneseo, NY08.2024
Bachelor of Science - Certification in Early Childhood and Childhood Education, Natural Science Concentration, Biology Minor
State University of New York At Geneseo
Geneseo, NY05.2022
Skills
- Academic Administration
- Curriculum Design
- Instructional Coaching
- Literacy Development
- Data Analysis
- Teacher Professional Development
- Cross- Regional Collaboration
- Google Workspace
- Canvas
- Microsoft Office
Related Experience
New Student and Transfer Ambassador - SUNY Geneseo - School of Education | 2020–2022
- Led virtual sessions and panels to support incoming education students and their families.
- Shared academic and campus experiences to help new students transition successfully.
Sports and Activities Director - Cicero Town Parks and Recreation, Cicero, NY - Summers 2019–2022
- Supervised and designed programs for 15+ children ages 5–12.
- Developed weekly schedules and communicated with families to ensure positive camp experiences.
Timeline
Dean of Curriculum and Instruction
Uncommon Schools
04.2025 - Current
Instructional Leader
Uncommon Schools
05.2024 - 05.2025
6th Grade Teacher - Math and ELA
Uncommon Schools
08.2022 - 08.2025
Curriculum Planner
Uncommon Schools Curriculum and Assessment Team
- Current
Reading Intervention Lead
Uncommon Schools
- Current
Master of Science in Education - Certification in Reading and Literacy (Birth-Grade 12)
State University of New York at Geneseo
Bachelor of Science - Certification in Early Childhood and Childhood Education, Natural Science Concentration, Biology Minor
State University of New York At Geneseo