MICHAEL ISAAC
PITTSBURGH,PA
Summary
“If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow.” John Dewey.
Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Pittsburgh Public School District, blending differentiated instruction and behavior management to foster inclusive learning environments. Recognized for mentoring student teachers and earning a Teacher of the Year Award. Fluent in German, proficient in Spanish, and experienced in international teaching, demonstrating unparalleled commitment to student development and academic excellence.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
High School Social Science Teacher
Pittsburgh Public School District
Pittsburgh, PA
10.2001 - 11.2024
- Educated students with Individualized Education Programs and English Language Learners.
- Supervised the learning environment for up to 36 students.
- Designed evaluations to gauge understanding, modifying teaching techniques as needed.
- Led classroom debates and discussions to promote critical thinking.
- Coordinated educational excursions to historical sites.
- Participated in parent-teacher conferences regarding student academic progress.
- Maintained school-wide culture of respect and actively used positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) disciplinary methods.
- Developed effective strategies to enhance growth for students facing challenges.
- Crafted and executed lesson plans focusing on world history, sociology, philosophy, religions, geography, economics, and government.
- Mentored seven student teachers into becoming successful educators.
- Worked as a homebound instructor across curricula for students in grades 6–12.
- Served as a Mock Trial Coach.
- Served as the Chess Team Coach.
- Fostered a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding by exploring diverse cultures and perspectives in social studies content.
- Found Allderdice Hall of Fame.
Middle School Teacher
Winston Salem Forsyth County Schools
Winston-Salem, NC
07.2000 - 05.2001
- Encouraged thinking through problem-based learning.
- Developed a mock trial lesson plan for teaching civics to seventh-grade students.
- Collaborated with an interdisciplinary teaching team.
Middle School Teacher
Graham County Schools
Graham, NC
08.1999 - 12.2000
- Developed and implemented lesson plans to teach students in grades 6-8.
- Evaluated student academic and social growth and prepared progress reports on individual pupil improvement.
Behavior Specialist Consultant
Family Links
Pittsburgh, PA
07.1998 - 06.1999
- Implemented behavior intervention programs based on Functional Behavior Assessments.
- Consulted with teachers regarding classroom management strategies that promote a positive learning environment.
- Created individualized crisis management plans for each student that addressed potential triggers, de-escalation techniques, and safety protocols.
ESL Teacher
Lingurama, Volkshochschule
Cologne, Germany
03.1997 - 05.1998
- Utilized various teaching methodologies to deliver engaging, interactive learning experiences.
- Encouraged students to practice spoken English through role-plays, debates, and discussions.
- Taught Business English classes at Gerling Group, Cologne's largest insurance company.
- Taught individuals spanning a diverse age range of 8 to 88.
Therapeutic Support Staff Member
Family Links
Pittsburgh, PA
09.1994 - 09.1997
- Assisted in developing and implementing individualized treatment plans for clients.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary team to determine effective treatment plans.
- Responded to emergency situations and provided crisis support.
- Offered feedback on how best to adjust treatment plans based on client needs.
- Provided emotional support and guidance to children with mental health issues, including autism.
Education
Master of Science - Education
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA05-1999
Teaching English As A Foreign Languuge -
University of Cambridge
Cambridge, England09-1996
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA05-1995
K-12 Principal Certificate -
California University of Pennsylvania
California, PASkills
- Student motivation
- Differentiated instruction
- Conversationally Fluent in German
- Proficient in Spanish
- Program development
- Empathy and patience
- Public speaking
- Behavior management
- Reporting and documentation
- Special education experience
- I have taught in England, Germany, and the United States
- Teaching Experience in Middle and High School Settings
- Mentored seven student teachers
- Ran for US Congress
- Distinguished teacher rating
- Teacher of the Year Award
Affiliations
- Weight training, playing with my dog, watching documentaries, telling dad jokes
Languages
German
Professional
Spanish
Limited
Timeline
High School Social Science Teacher
Pittsburgh Public School District
10.2001 - 11.2024
Middle School Teacher
Winston Salem Forsyth County Schools
07.2000 - 05.2001
Middle School Teacher
Graham County Schools
08.1999 - 12.2000
Behavior Specialist Consultant
Family Links
07.1998 - 06.1999
ESL Teacher
Lingurama, Volkshochschule
03.1997 - 05.1998
Therapeutic Support Staff Member
Family Links
09.1994 - 09.1997
Master of Science - Education
Duquesne University
Teaching English As A Foreign Languuge -
University of Cambridge
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Duquesne University
K-12 Principal Certificate -
California University of Pennsylvania