Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

MARy L RICHARDS

Cornwall,VT

Summary

Qualified Instructional Leader with strong background in leading educational initiatives and developing innovative teaching strategies. Proven track record in improving student outcomes and fostering collaborative learning environment. Demonstrated expertise in curriculum development and team leadership.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

MacArthur Fellow & Instructional Leader

TERC Climate and Equity Institute
04.2024 - Current
  • Networked and built strong presence with peers to facilitate professional relationships.
  • Collaborated with team to optimize workflow and achieve objectives.
  • Demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities while managing multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines without sacrificing quality or accuracy.
  • Contributed to research activities by providing specialist input based on professional expertise, practice, experience, and qualifications.
  • Contributed to planning appropriate and engaging lessons for both classroom and distance learning applications.
  • Applied innovative teaching methods to encourage student learning objectives.
  • Incorporated instructional technologies in course delivery for both in-class and online instruction.

Instructional Leader: Climate Literacy Initiatives

National Writing Project & NCTE
08.2020 - Current
  • Collaborate with colleagues across schools/states/regions to develop interdisciplinary units of study, enriching the overall educational experience for students.
  • Contribute to school, district, and state-wide initiatives focused on enhancing climate literacy awareness and fostering a positive learning community.
  • Lead professional development workshops for fellow educators on best practices in instruction and assessment design within the context of climate literacy initiatives.
  • Adapt instructional strategies to meet the unique needs of each learner, boosting overall class performance.
  • Serve as a mentor for new teachers, offering guidance on effective teaching techniques and collaborative curriculum strategies.
  • Foster student curiosity, interest, advocacy, and agency through creative hands-on activities.
  • Increase disciplinary expertise and knowledge by co-leading instructor-oriented workshops at state and national conferences.
  • Boost cultural awareness by incorporating climate literature from world cultures.

Instructional Leader, Researcher, Coordinator

National Writing Project, NCTE, Rutgers & Stanford
06.2018 - Current
  • Coordinated and implemented Digital Democratic Dialogue Project with a transdisciplinary focus on citizenship education and equity in the high school ELA classroom across multiple, diverse regions of the United States.
  • Gathered and organized information for research purposes.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to conduct comprehensive studies and generate valuable insights.
  • Conducted thorough literature reviews to identify gaps in knowledge and inform future research directions.
  • Synthesized large volumes of information, identifying key trends and patterns relevant to research objectives.
  • Maintained detailed records of experimental procedures, observations, and results for accurate reporting and replication purposes.
  • Presented research findings at national and international conferences, raising the profile of the institution.
  • Applied ethical considerations throughout all stages of the research process, safeguarding participant welfare and data integrity.
  • Pioneered use of cutting-edge technology in experiments, setting new standards for precision and accuracy.
  • Spearheaded collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, fostering holistic approach to research problems.
  • Mentored junior researchers, enhancing team capabilities and fostering culture of continuous learning.
  • Conducted fieldwork in diverse environments, adapting methodologies to unique challenges encountered.
  • Facilitated partnerships with external research institutions, expanding resources and expertise available for projects.
  • Worked as member of integrated project team in highly collaborative work environment.


National Education Association Leader

NEA-Alaska, NEA-Vermont
09.2019 - Current


  • Currently serve as Vice-President of the Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union Education Association.
  • Currently serve as building president and representative/union advocate for EA members at Otter Valley Union Middle and High School.
  • Elected to serve as NEA-Vermont representative for the NEA Representative Assembly: Philadelphia, PA, 2024.
  • Elected to serve as NEA-Vermont Annual Meeting advocate for RNESU-EA 2023 & 2024.
  • Elected to serve as Anchorage Education Association representative for the NEA Representative Assembly: Orlando, FL: 2023.
  • Elected to serve as Anchorage Education Association representative for the NEA Representative Assembly: Chicago, IL: 2022.
  • Elected to attend the NEA Women's Leadership Summit: 2022.
  • Elected to serve as Anchorage Education Association District Representatives for multiple NEA-Alaska conferences and leadership trainings: 2018-2023.
  • Elected to serve as co-chair for the Anchorage Education Association's Human and Civil Rights Committee: 2020-2023.

High School ELA Teacher

Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union
08.2023 - Current
  • Promoted a growth mindset in students by setting high expectations and providing support for individual academic goals.
  • Developed and maintained positive relationships with parents, fostering open communication about student progress and achievements.
  • Monitored student progress closely using formative assessments, adjusting instructional approaches as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
  • Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to address diverse learning needs and ensure student success.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on teaching strategies and best practices for ELA education.
  • Collaborated with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects, enhancing students'' understanding of the connection between subjects.
  • Enhanced student comprehension of complex texts through targeted reading strategies and guided practice activities.
  • Organized extracurricular activities such as book clubs or writing workshops, fostering a love of literature and language outside the classroom.
  • Utilized data-driven decision-making to identify areas of improvement within the curriculum and adjust lesson plans accordingly.
  • Integrated real-world connections into lessons, helping students see the relevance of ELA topics to their daily lives.
  • Mentored new teachers in effective ELA instructional techniques, contributing to overall school improvement efforts.
  • Helped students develop academic, social and emotional skills for long-term success.
  • Utilized multimedia strategies and technology to convey information in fresh and interesting ways.
  • Encouraged independent thought, good judgment, and expression of original ideas.
  • Developed and implemented variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse needs of students.
  • Supported development of individualized education plans for students with special needs.

Secondary Principal Internship & District Leadersh

Anchorage School District
08.2012 - 05.2023
  • Extensive mentorship under the principal leadership team at Chugiak High School.
  • Developed and implementing three project initiatives: 1) Language! and RTI Universal Screener Implementation and Data Analysis, 2) Common Core State Standards Public Relations Campaign, and 3) Tardy and Discipline Data Analysis Initiative.
  • Providing ASD professional development around the CCSS as well as participating in comprehensive ASD academic plan alignment and revision.
  • Fostered a positive school culture by promoting inclusivity, respect, and high expectations for all stakeholders.
  • Implemented effective teacher evaluation practices that focused on continuous improvement of instruction across all content areas.
  • Led efforts in monitoring school safety/security measures ensuring a safe environment conducive to learning for all students.
  • Forged strategic partnerships with community stakeholders that provided valuable resources to support student success.
  • Advocated for equity in resource allocation amongst various departments ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
  • Mentored new teachers to enhance their instructional skills and improve student outcomes.
  • Improved school-wide performance by implementing data-driven instructional strategies.
  • Promoted college readiness among students through targeted coursework offerings, counseling services, and partnerships with higher education institutions.
  • Oversaw the implementation of state standards-based curriculum, ensuring alignment with assessment requirements.
  • Addressed behavioral issues proactively by developing a consistent disciplinary framework and providing appropriate interventions as needed.
  • Championed innovative teaching methods to inspire both educators and learners in embracing new approaches towards education delivery.
  • Mentored newly hired educators and provided encouragement and feedback.
  • Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
  • Researched and incorporated new educational trends and instructional strategies to optimize education effectiveness.
  • Established instructional practices driven through statistical performance data.
  • Observed teachers, documented activities and implemented improvement plans to optimize classrooms.

Instructional Leader

Alaska Writing Project
08.2000 - 06.2023
  • Taught philosophy courses for undergraduates while serving as a teacher assistant at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
  • Continue to teach secondary education courses in the fields of English and gifted education for certified teachers.
  • Continue to serve as Alaska’s liaison for the Bread Loaf School of English Teacher Network.
  • Continue to serve as teacher leader in multiple capacities on local, state, and national levels.
  • UAA Adjunct Professor: Departments of English and Education, 2000-present.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.

ASD Curriculum and Instruction: K-12 Literacy Curriculum Integration and Instructional Support

Anchorage School District
09.2010 - 08.2013
  • Worked extensively with secondary language arts and social studies teachers as well as Anchorage School District principals and administration to develop professional development opportunities that support the continued integration of both content and skills in language arts and social studies.
  • Member of ASD/University of Washington, Center for Educational Leadership literacy studio classroom and instructional coaching cohort.
  • Extensive background in curriculum development, Common Core State Standards implementation, and RTI.

Fellow, Board Member, Educational Consultant, Technology Coordinator, and Co-Director

Alaska State Writing Consortium
09.1998 - Current
  • Lead facilitator for the ASWC/National Writing Project Invitational Summer Institute at UAA/Summer 2011 and 2012.
  • Board member and technology coordinator.
  • Lead developer of professional development for teachers and school districts across the state as well as nationally.
  • Co-Director, 2013-2016.

High School English Teacher

Anchorage School District
08.2004 - 05.2023
  • Taught grades 9-12 honors and Advanced Placement Literature and Composition, Advanced, world literature, American literature, American studies, and the new Language! Curriculum as well as dual-enrollment ASD/UAA English 111.
  • Promoted critical thinking skills by challenging students to analyze literary texts and express their interpretations in written assignments.
  • Stayed current on educational research and best practices by attending professional development workshops and conferences regularly.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively, implementing consistent expectations and consequences for all students.
  • Boosted students'' reading and writing skills through targeted lessons, group activities, and individualized support.
  • Served as a positive role model for students, demonstrating respect, empathy, and professionalism in all interactions.
  • Fostered a love of literature among students by introducing engaging texts from diverse genres, authors, time periods, and cultures.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing diverse teaching methods and incorporating multimedia resources.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary units that connected English content with other subject areas.
  • Planned dynamic lessons to increase student comprehension of books and literary concepts.
  • Selected to serve as ERHS English Department Chair, 2010.
  • Served as key club adviser.
  • Served as class sponsor.
  • Active in district, state, and national curriculum development.
  • Served in multiple capacities as building leader/department chair.

Middle School Language Arts Teacher

Anchorage School District
01.2002 - 06.2004
  • Selected to move to Romig Middle School to serve as secondary language arts teacher for the Anchorage School District’s Highly Gifted Magnet Program.
  • Taught on multidisciplinary teams.
  • Taught highly gifted, gifted, and enriched sections of 8th grade language arts.
  • Served as gifted education coordinator.
  • Taught a looped, two-year 7/8 language arts curriculum.
  • Taught multiple sections of gifted 7/8 language arts.
  • Taught and collaborated on a multi-disciplinary, multi-ability, multi-age team.
  • Actively implemented differentiated curriculum models.
  • Actively implemented Paideia and Socratic Seminar techniques within the curriculum.
  • Participated in interdisciplinary team project development and implementation.

Education

M.Ed. - Educational Leadership

University of Alaska
05.2013

M.A. - English

Middlebury College: Bread Loaf School of English
08.2004

M.A. - Philosophy

University of Colorado
12.1992

B.Ed. - Secondary Education

University of Alaska
05.1995

B.A. - Political Science

Iowa State University
05.1989

Skills

  • Instructional coaching
  • Student engagement
  • Educational technology
  • Teaching methodologies
  • Curriculum development
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Inquiry-based learning
  • Relationship building
  • Teacher leadership
  • Team teaching and collaboration
  • School administration

Timeline

MacArthur Fellow & Instructional Leader

TERC Climate and Equity Institute
04.2024 - Current

High School ELA Teacher

Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union
08.2023 - Current

Instructional Leader: Climate Literacy Initiatives

National Writing Project & NCTE
08.2020 - Current

National Education Association Leader

NEA-Alaska, NEA-Vermont
09.2019 - Current

Instructional Leader, Researcher, Coordinator

National Writing Project, NCTE, Rutgers & Stanford
06.2018 - Current

Secondary Principal Internship & District Leadersh

Anchorage School District
08.2012 - 05.2023

ASD Curriculum and Instruction: K-12 Literacy Curriculum Integration and Instructional Support

Anchorage School District
09.2010 - 08.2013

High School English Teacher

Anchorage School District
08.2004 - 05.2023

Middle School Language Arts Teacher

Anchorage School District
01.2002 - 06.2004

Instructional Leader

Alaska Writing Project
08.2000 - 06.2023

Fellow, Board Member, Educational Consultant, Technology Coordinator, and Co-Director

Alaska State Writing Consortium
09.1998 - Current

M.A. - English

Middlebury College: Bread Loaf School of English

M.A. - Philosophy

University of Colorado

B.Ed. - Secondary Education

University of Alaska

B.A. - Political Science

Iowa State University

M.Ed. - Educational Leadership

University of Alaska

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MARy L RICHARDS