Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Technical Experience
Work Preference
Software
Interests
Timeline
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MELISSA THORNTON

MELISSA THORNTON

Huntsville,TX

Summary

Reliable Professional Development Specialist with solid background in instructional technology. Adept at designing and implementing technology-driven educational solutions that enhance learning experiences. Demonstrated expertise in troubleshooting technical issues and training educators and others in effective technology use.

Overview

35
35
years of professional experience

Work History

Innovative Learning Specialist

Huntsville High School
01.2018 - Current
  • Managed the campus library, including books and technology
  • Facilitated professional development for staff and teachers on instructional technology and devices
  • Maintained inclusive learning environment to enable students to feel safe and comfortable.
  • Increased collaboration among teachers by organizing professional development workshops and sharing best practices.
  • Set up visual aids, equipment, and classroom displays to support teacher's lesson delivery.

Instructional Materials Allotment Specialist

Huntsville ISD
08.2015 - Current
  • Handled the IMTA funds for the district
  • Responsible for the procurement of instructional technology and materials for the district
  • Coordinated with vendors to negotiate contracts and procure hardware/software resources at competitive pricing levels while maintaining quality standards.
  • Developed strong relationships with publishers, securing timely delivery of educational materials.
  • Increased efficiency in textbook distribution using a well-planned logistics strategy.
  • Collaborated with faculty members to select appropriate textbooks and resources, enhancing curriculum quality.
  • Managed budget allocations for textbook purchases, optimizing resource allocation across departments.

Computer Technology Teacher

Huntsville High School
08.2015 - 05.2018
  • Taught 9th-12th graders computer basics, computer maintenance, and basic coding
  • Led the student team repairing the campus 1:1 Chromebooks and worked with the Technology Department
  • Managed classroom effectively, establishing clear expectations and maintaining a respectful learning environment for all students.
  • Stayed current with industry advancements by attending conferences and engaging in continuous professional development opportunities related to computer technology education.

Instructional Technology Specialist

Huntsville ISD
08.2002 - 06.2015
  • Assisted teachers in integrating technology into their curriculum, leading to improved instructional delivery methods.
  • Developed and implemented professional development workshops for staff on emerging technologies, contributing to a more tech-savvy workforce.
  • Designed engaging multimedia presentations combining text, images, audio, video clips for various subjects, diversifying teaching approaches.
  • Trained faculty members on using interactive whiteboards and other technologies effectively during lessons, enhancing visual presentations of course content.
  • Provided technical support to resolve hardware and software issues for faculty members, minimizing downtime and disruptions in teaching.
  • Managed online learning platforms to streamline communication between students, teachers, and parents, fostering a collaborative educational environment.
  • Enhanced student engagement by incorporating digital tools and multimedia resources into instructional materials.
  • Organized district and school-wide events focused on digital citizenship and internet safety, promoting responsible online behavior among students.

Theatre Arts Teacher

Huntsville Intermediate School
02.1990 - 05.2002
  • Taught theatre arts to 5th-8th graders
  • Coordinated successful productions and performances showcasing student talent while demonstrating knowledge of technical aspects such as lighting, sound design, costume creation, set design, and stage management.

Education

Master of Education - Secondary Education

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY
Huntsville, TX

Bachelor of Arts in Teaching - Drama

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY
Huntsville, TX

Skills

  • Independent and Collaborative Worker
  • Leadership
  • Strong Verbal Communication
  • Rapid Learner
  • Proficient in Educational Technology
  • Proficient in Instructional Design for Varied Audiences
  • Problem-Solving Expertise
  • Teacher support
  • Training delivery
  • Technical training
  • Learning management systems

Accomplishments

  • Collaborated with Technology Department in the development of the high school's 1:1 Chromebook implementation.
  • Trained and led student team in the repair and management of school's Chromebooks
  • Successfully trained and supported district teacher on technology integration for their classrooms.
  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.

Technical Experience

  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • Promethean board/ActivPanel experience
  • Google Education Suite proficiency
  • LMS material creation and management
  • Computer Troubleshooting proficiency
  • Software Troubleshooting proficiency
  • Web Page creation

Work Preference

Work Type

Contract WorkPart Time

Work Location

RemoteHybrid

Software

Microsoft Office

Google for Education

LMS platforms (Moodle, Schoology, Google Classroom)

Presentation software (PowerPoint, Canva, Google Slides)

Interests

Technology

Reading

Arts

Timeline

Innovative Learning Specialist

Huntsville High School
01.2018 - Current

Instructional Materials Allotment Specialist

Huntsville ISD
08.2015 - Current

Computer Technology Teacher

Huntsville High School
08.2015 - 05.2018

Instructional Technology Specialist

Huntsville ISD
08.2002 - 06.2015

Theatre Arts Teacher

Huntsville Intermediate School
02.1990 - 05.2002

Master of Education - Secondary Education

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Arts in Teaching - Drama

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY
MELISSA THORNTON