Mercedes Durham
Summary
Versatile music educator with a proven ability to adapt to diverse situations, communicate effectively, and collaborate with teams, seeking a new challenge in human resources. Strong organizational and leadership skills, coupled with experience in project management and a commitment to fostering positive workplace cultures. Eager to leverage transferable skills in HR such as problem solving, conflict resolution, and a keen understanding of individual needs.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
MUSIC TEACHER
Center Stage Academy of the Fine Arts
2021.11 - 2023.11
- Instructed over 120 students in private and group vocal and/or piano lessons, ranging from beginners at age four to advanced and adult students
- Generated a 480% increase in student enrollment through word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied parents and students
- Maintained a student retention rate of 55% by consistently delivering high-quality music education and adapting teaching methods to individual learning styles
- Instructed thirty-two preschool students in basic music theory concepts, including identifying musical rhythms aurally and visually, as well as hearing opposite concepts in music
- Directed theater production, overseeing rehearsals and performances
- Inspired 95% of students to participate in three annual recitals and develop their performance skills.
MUSIC TEACHER
Moore Public Schools
2018.08 - 2021.05
- Instructed over 1,500 elementary students in music theory, instrument basics, and vocal techniques to cultivate a well-rounded musical education
- Utilized technology tools to enhance lesson plans, integrating multimedia elements to make music education interactive and engaging
- Expanded the school's participation in the district 'Honor Choir' by 266% within one year
- Directed and orchestrated district 'Honor Choir', composed of 250 fifth and sixth grade students
- Managed and executed morning school assembly 'Rise and Shine'.
EVENT PLANNER
Bethany YMCA
2018.05 - 2018.08
- Facilitated staff scheduling to maintain optimal coverage and meet service standards
- Crafted and supervised a dozen field trips in the local area for a camp of 75 children
- Created and directed small and large group activities for a variety of ages
- Communicated effectively with all families, venues, and food providers
- Administered first aid when needed.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
Moore Public Schools
2018.01 - 2018.05
- Coached a classroom of 25 kindergarten students through end-of-the-year assessment, with 92% of students demonstrating the ability to move to the next grade-level
- Demonstrated effective time management to cover given lesson material within the given time frame
- Exhibited ability to rapidly understand and apply differing school policies, procedures, and classroom routines
- Displayed capability to quickly adjust teaching strategies and materials to meet the need of different classrooms and grade levels.
KEYHOLDER/MANAGER
The Candy Wrapper
2017.05 - 2017.08
- Maintained a strong focus on customer satisfaction, including resolving customer issues, addressing inquiries, and ensuring a positive shopping experience
- Exhibited skill in creating visually appealing displays and optimizing store layouts to attract customers and promote product visibility
- Displayed ability to identify and address operational challenges, including resolving issues related to inventory and customer concerns
- Exemplified strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with both the team and upper management
- Showed ability to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced retail environment.
INTERN
Ocotillo Performing Arts Center
2014.05 - 2014.08
- Researched design aspects; including set, costume, and prop design, for the three theater productions of the summer season
- Designed and created thirty-five props for theater production of Shrek, the Musical, for a cast of thirty that performed four shows
- Assisted in direction of summer children's musical, Alice in Wonderland, Jr., with a cast of forty children that performed four shows
- Designed fourteen different rotating displays for the exterior marquee that promoted upcoming events and advertised our supporting businesses, and was updated every week.
DISHWASHER
Mountain View Christian Camp
2010.07 - 2011.07
- Thoroughly cleaned and sanitized dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment to uphold hygiene standards
- Prioritized washing and drying tasks based on the immediate needs of the kitchen and dining areas
- Proactively assisted in maintaining overall cleanliness and workflow in the kitchen and dining area during slower periods or when extra support was needed, including aiding in food prep
- Collaborated with teammates and kitchen staff to maintain a smooth workflow and timely service for the campers and camp staff of 170.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Music Education
Lubbock Christian University
Lubbock, TX12.2017
Skills
- Employee Relations
- Project Management
- Group Instruction
- Performance Evaluation
- Staff Management
- Employee Training
- Communication Management
- Program Development
- Calendar Management
- Detail Oriented & Organized
- Team Collaboration & Leadership
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Applications
Accomplishments
- Music Director of Center Stage Academy Fall 2022 Production of James and the Giant Peach, Jr. which featured a cast of 50 children who performed for an audience of 300 people.
- Director of Moore Public Schools Honor Choir - Southmoore Pod 2019-2020, which involved 250 students from six local elementary schools and eight staff members.
- Obtained Level 1 Kodaly Certification - June 2019
- First became First Aid/CPR Certified - August 2018
- Attended over 160 hours of professional development from 2018
- Classes in teaching students with learning disabilities
- Classes in teaching students of differing cultures
- Classes in how to identify and report students suspected of experiencing abuse and/or neglect at home.
- Presented at Lubbock Christian University Colloquium - March 2017
Certification
Red Cross CRP/First Aid Certification
Timeline
MUSIC TEACHER
Center Stage Academy of the Fine Arts
2021.11 - 2023.11
MUSIC TEACHER
Moore Public Schools
2018.08 - 2021.05
EVENT PLANNER
Bethany YMCA
2018.05 - 2018.08
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
Moore Public Schools
2018.01 - 2018.05
KEYHOLDER/MANAGER
The Candy Wrapper
2017.05 - 2017.08
INTERN
Ocotillo Performing Arts Center
2014.05 - 2014.08
DISHWASHER
Mountain View Christian Camp
2010.07 - 2011.07
Bachelor's Degree - Music Education
Lubbock Christian University
Red Cross CRP/First Aid Certification
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