Matthew Clum
Rockford,IL
Summary
Two of my greatest passions are theatre and education. The way art and self-expression can be utilized to build confidence, self-love, compassion, and empathy in individuals, especially youth, is nothing short of magical to me. My experience in special education (as well as my own experience as a disabled person) makes me uniquely equipped to foster an inclusive and safe environment for children of all abilities. I love collaborating with others to create an experience that is not just enjoyable for the audience, but is also transformative and meaningful for everyone involved in the process. Maintaining a compassionate and equity-based outlook in positions of leadership is of utmost importance to me, and I believe that comes from investing in positive relationships with whoever is on my team.
I look forward to the opportunity to build something amazing together.
Overview
1
1
Language
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Music Teacher
Self Employed
Rockford, IL
01.2026 - Current
- Demonstrated proper technique, posture, and practice methods during lessons.
- Assessed student progress and adjusted instruction to address skill gaps.
- Incorporated creative activities into lessons to engage students and spark interest in music.
Freelance Artist and Writer
Self Employed
Rockford, IL
10.2023 - Current
- Created original artwork across digital and traditional media for commissioned client projects.
- Managed client feedback cycles, revising artwork to meet creative requirements and deadlines.
- Contributed to creative process through original ideas and inspiration.
- Participated in creative brainstorming sessions to develop new ideas or improve existing ones.
- Participated in art exhibitions and shows to showcase work.
English Teacher
South Korean Government
Tongyeong, SK
04.2021 - 04.2022
- Delivered English lessons aligned with national curriculum and classroom objectives.
- Planned engaging activities supporting speaking, listening, reading, and writing development.
- Managed classroom behavior and maintained structured, respectful learning environment.
- Collaborated with school staff on lesson planning and instructional support.
- Incorporated cultural exchange activities to strengthen student communication skills.
- Provided individualized feedback to improve pronunciation, grammar, and confidence.
- Promoted a positive learning environment by modeling respect, empathy, and active listening skills during all interactions with students.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Lewis Palmer School District
Monument, CO
10.2018 - 05.2020
- Monitored student safety during classroom, hallway, and transition activities.
- Implemented individualized education plans and behavior supports with consistency and attention to student goals.
- Supported classroom instruction by reinforcing lessons and adapting activities for diverse student learning needs.
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
- Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
- Oversaw class of students in absence of the instructor.
Theatre Teacher
Time to Dance Studios
Monument, CO
02.2019 - 03.2020
- Developed theatre lesson plans covering acting, movement, voice, and stagecraft.
- Directed rehearsals to strengthen performance technique and ensemble coordination.
- Coached performers on script interpretation, blocking, and character development.
- Assessed student progress and adjusted instruction for varied skill levels.
- Organized auditions, cast assignments, and production preparation activities.
- Guided students through stage etiquette, confidence building, and performance readiness.
Tutor
Private
Colorado Springs, CO
09.2016 - 12.2017
- Delivered one-on-one instruction that improved comprehension, confidence, and independent problem-solving.
- Assessed student progress regularly and adjusted instruction to address learning gaps.
- Developed individualized lesson plans aligned with student learning goals and academic standards.
- Explored tutoring needs across subjects to provide targeted academic support and study strategies.
- Mentored students through difficult coursework using clear explanations and structured review methods.
- Provided homework assistance using specific curriculum and materials.
- Collaborated with students to complete homework assignments, identify lagging skills, and correct weaknesses.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English
Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, NH11-2020
Skills
- Music pedagogy
- Script analysis
- Casting decisions
- Artistic vision
- Creative innovation
- Creative vision
- Student assessment
- Relationship building
- Team collaboration
- Problem solving
- Curriculum development
- Vocal techniques
Languages
American Sign Language
Elementary
Timeline
Music Teacher
Self Employed
01.2026 - Current
Freelance Artist and Writer
Self Employed
10.2023 - Current
English Teacher
South Korean Government
04.2021 - 04.2022
Theatre Teacher
Time to Dance Studios
02.2019 - 03.2020
Special Education Paraprofessional
Lewis Palmer School District
10.2018 - 05.2020
Tutor
Private
09.2016 - 12.2017
Bachelor of Arts - English
Southern New Hampshire University