Sandra Sterling
Fargo
Summary
Data Driven Educator with 19 years of experience in fostering academic excellence and student growth. Builds strong relationships with students, staff, and families to support a positive school culture. Creates a supportive, engaging, and student-centered school environment that promotes independence, confidence, and high achievement for all learners.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
1st Grade Teacher, Kindergarten Teacher, Library Media Specialist
Washington Elementary School, Fargo Public Schools
Fargo, ND
08.2011 - Current
- Design and implement standards-aligned lesson plans supporting academic, emotional, and social development
- Establish a safe, respectful, and student-driven classroom environment that fosters engagement
- Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas of need for individual students and adjust teaching methods accordingly.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring all students made progress towards academic goals.
- Mentor student teachers and new grade level teammates as part of a supportive professional learning culture
- Implement and model best instructional practices as a Catalyst Certified Resident Coach and Demonstration Teacher
- Integrate Seesaw and other classroom technology to enhance student learning and parent communication
Kindergarten Teacher / RTI Interventionist / Pre-K Teacher
JP2 Catholic Schools
Fargo, ND
06.2008 - 06.2011
- Taught elementary students using developmentally appropriate practices aligned with early childhood standards
- Delivered targeted MTSS interventions in reading and math to support learners
- Created engaging, structured classroom routines to build foundational literacy and mathematical skills
- Collaborated with colleagues and parents to support individual student growth and success
- Built positive relationships with students and families for safe, trusted learning support.
Early Childhood and School Age Director
YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties
Fargo, ND
06.2006 - 06.2008
- Oversaw curriculum development and daily operations for early childhood and school-age programs
- Managed and trained staff to maintain high standards of care and education
- Ensured compliance with state licensing and accreditation standards
- Developed strong relationships with families and community partners to support child development
- Coordinated enrichment activities and events promoting holistic growth for children ages 2–12
Education
Master of Education - Library and Information Technology
Valley City State University
Valley City, ND01.2013
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD05-2006
Skills
- Catalyst Whole Group Certification (2018–Present)
- Catalyst Demonstration Teacher (2024–Present)
- Catalyst Resident Coach (2024-Present)
- Seesaw Ambassador – Level 1
- AVMR (AddVantage Math Recovery) Courses 1 and 2
- LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) Course 1 Trained
Accomplishments
- Fargo Public Schools Teacher of the Year Nominee (9 times)
- Innovative Educator Grant Recipient (3 times)
- Prairie Public Schoolwide Literacy Grant Recipient
Certification
- North Dakota Teaching License – Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, and Library and Technology Director Level 1 Certificate
- Catalyst Whole Group Certification (2018–Present)
- Catalyst Demonstration Teacher (2024–Present)
- Seesaw Ambassador – Level 1
- AVMR (Add+Vantage Math Recovery) Courses 1 and 2
- LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) Course 1 Trained
Awards
- Fargo Public Schools Teacher of the Year Nominee (9 times)
Leadership & Contributions
- Leadership/School Improvement Team Member
- Catalyst Resident Coach & Demonstration Teacher
- MTSS Team Member
- Curriculum Pilot Member (Science, Reading, Mathematics)
- Course Captain and District Curriculum Writer
- Mentor to Student Teachers
Timeline
1st Grade Teacher, Kindergarten Teacher, Library Media Specialist
Washington Elementary School, Fargo Public Schools
08.2011 - Current
Kindergarten Teacher / RTI Interventionist / Pre-K Teacher
JP2 Catholic Schools
06.2008 - 06.2011
Early Childhood and School Age Director
YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties
06.2006 - 06.2008
Master of Education - Library and Information Technology
Valley City State University
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
South Dakota State University