Philip Cotta
Town and Country,MO
Summary
Accomplished educator with extensive experience in the Kirkwood R-7 School District, with demonstrated success in creating engaging lesson plans and fostering student participation in both classroom and remote settings. Proficient at incorporating technology into teaching to enhance learning experiences. Known for strong leadership and organizational skills, as well as ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. Made a significant impact by improving overall student academic performance through innovative educational strategies.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
9th-12th Grade High School History Teacher
Kirkwood R-7 School District
Kirkwood, MO
08.2003 - 07.2025
- Utilized a variety of instructional strategies, including lectures, discussions, small group readings, to accommodate diverse learning styles.
- Established and enforced clear class objectives and requirements to promote consistent education for students.
- Promoted a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding through the exploration of diverse cultures and perspectives in social studies content.
- Communicated regularly with parents and guardians regarding student achievements and areas for improvement.
- Integrated technology into classroom settings to engage students and diversify instruction.
- Met with parents to discuss students' progress and review areas requiring improvement.
- Created lesson plans and chose supporting materials to promote positive learning experiences.
- Collaborated with other subject and grade-level teachers to build complementary educational frameworks for students.
- Provided feedback on student work through rubrics or checklists designed according to specific criteria.
- Managed classroom environment to foster a safe and inclusive space conducive to learning.
- Provided individualized instruction for struggling students in order to help them achieve their academic goals.
7th/8th Grade Middle School History Teacher
Kirkwood R-7 School District
Kirkwood, MO
08.2001 - 05.2003
- Adapted instruction based on the needs of individual learners within the classroom setting.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive lesson plans covering U.S. History, World History, Geography, and Civics, aligning with state standards and benchmarks.
- Assessed student performance, behavior and social development and devised improvement strategies for struggling children.
- Incorporated technology into classroom lessons when appropriate to reinforce concepts taught in Social Studies courses.
- Communicated regularly with parents and guardians regarding student achievements and areas for improvement.
- Collaborated with colleagues to integrate cross-curricular themes and projects, enriching the educational experience across subjects.
- Established and enforced clear class objectives and requirements to promote consistent education for students.
9th - 11th Grade History Teacher
Hannibal School District
Hannibal, MO
08.1996 - 05.2001
Education
Master of Arts - History
University of Missouri - St. Louis
St. Louis, MO08-2003
Bachelor of Arts - History Education
Culver-Stockton College
Canton, MO05-1996
Skills
- Primary source analysis
- Student engagement
- Student instruction
- Collaborative learning
- Cultural sensitivity
- Curriculum development
- Policy enforcement
Certification
- Lifetime Teaching Certificate Grades 7-12
Affiliations
- 1996-2001 Varsity Boys Soccer Coach Hannibal High School
- 1996-2001 Varsity Girls Soccer Coach Hannibal High School
- 2001-2018 Varsity Assistant and Head Freshman Soccer Coach Kirkwood High School
- 2001-2008 Varsity Girls Assistant Coach Kirkwood High School
- 2009-2022 Varsity Girls Head Coach Kirkwood High School
- 2024 Junior Varsity Assistant Coach Ladue Horton Watkins High School
Timeline
9th-12th Grade High School History Teacher
Kirkwood R-7 School District
08.2003 - 07.2025
7th/8th Grade Middle School History Teacher
Kirkwood R-7 School District
08.2001 - 05.2003
9th - 11th Grade History Teacher
Hannibal School District
08.1996 - 05.2001
Master of Arts - History
University of Missouri - St. Louis
Bachelor of Arts - History Education
Culver-Stockton College