Stephania Charalambides
413 Stella Drive Hockessin,DE
Summary
Credentialed in pedagogy and seasoned in curriculum development, with extensive understanding of Catholic and Orthodox Christian theology. Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Virginia, along with a post-Master’s Certificate in Religious Education from Boston College's School of Theology and Ministry, emphasizing shared praxis in both academic and ecclesiastical settings. Successfully designed engaging educational programs that promote spiritual growth and foster intellectual inquiry. Committed to integrating theological principles into innovative teaching strategies that resonate with diverse audiences, ensuring meaningful learning experiences.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Grade-Level Team Leader
Odyssey Charter School
08.2022 - Current
- Led grade-level meetings to align instructional strategies and improve student outcomes.
- Coordinated curriculum development initiatives to enhance learning experiences across multiple subjects.
- Mentored new teachers, fostering professional growth and integration into school culture.
- Analyzed student performance data to inform instructional adjustments and resource allocation.
- Streamlined communication processes between administration, staff, and families to ensure transparency and efficiency.
- Advocated for the grade-level team''s needs and resources, ensuring a supportive environment conducive to student success.
Language Immersion ELA Partner Teacher
Odyssey Charter School
11.2013 - Current
- Developed and implemented curriculum initiatives that enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Collaborated with faculty to establish performance metrics for academic programs and student assessments.
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment encouraging student participation and collaboration.
- Assessed student progress using various evaluation tools to inform instruction and support learning outcomes.
- Integrated technology into curriculum, enhancing student engagement and understanding of literature concepts.
- Analyzed curriculum effectiveness, recommending improvements based on student performance data and educational trends.
- Monitored student progress closely using formative assessments, adjusting instructional approaches as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to address diverse learning needs and ensure student success.
- Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on teaching strategies and best practices for ELA education.
- Utilized data-driven decision-making to identify areas of improvement within the curriculum and adjust lesson plans accordingly.
- Integrated real-world connections into lessons, helping students see the relevance of ELA topics to their daily lives.
- Established a safe learning environment where students felt comfortable sharing ideas and asking questions.
Contracted Curriculum Writer
Department of Religious Education, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
09.2006 - 05.2013
- Developed engaging curriculum materials aligned with educational standards and organizational goals.
- Collaborated with subject matter experts to ensure content accuracy and relevance for diverse audiences.
- Conducted comprehensive reviews of existing curricula, identifying areas for improvement and enhancement.
- Facilitated workshops to train educators on new curriculum implementation and best practices in teaching methodologies.
- Integrated feedback from educators and stakeholders to refine curriculum offerings and improve user experience.
Contracted Curriculum Writer
Center for Family Care, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese
09.2010 - 05.2011
- Write and develop materials for Parish Family Night ministry
- Greek Orthodox Department of Religious Education
- Curriculum Writer
- Review, critique, and update current religious education materials and revamp format, approach, and content
- Write and develop new religious education texts and instructional materials
- Collaborated with team members to create comprehensive family care resources.
- Conducted research on best practices in family care to inform writing projects.
- Generated ideas for new content series or formats based on audience interests and market trends.
- Developed engaging content for community educational materials.
Fourth Grade Teacher
Odyssey Charter School
08.2009 - 06.2010
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards.
- Utilized diverse instructional strategies to accommodate varying learning styles.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment that encouraged student participation and collaboration.
- Assessed student progress through formative and summative evaluations, adjusting instruction accordingly.
- Integrated technology resources to enhance learning experiences and improve student engagement.
- Collaborated with parents and colleagues to support student development and address individual needs.
- Tracked student progress using formative and summative assessments, informing future instruction and support strategies.
- Encouraged cooperative group work among students, developing collaborative skills necessary for future success in school and beyond.
- Developed strong relationships with parents through regular communication, fostering a supportive learning community.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on trends in education and bringing innovative ideas back to the classroom.
- Organized field trips and guest speakers to enhance students'' educational experiences outside of the traditional classroom setting.
After-School Enrichment Educator
Building Educated Leaders for Life
09.2008 - 12.2008
- Fostered positive classroom environment encouraging student participation and collaboration.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Fostered positive learning environment that encouraged student curiosity and critical thinking.
- Enhanced students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills through project-based learning.
- Fostered student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
Writing Companion
Boston College’s IREPM
09.2007 - 12.2008
- Assisted international students in writing, revising, and editing academic papers and assignments.
- Facilitated meaningful companionship for students, enhancing emotional well-being and support.
Third Grade Teacher, Grade-Level Team Leader
Spring Hill Elementary
08.2005 - 06.2007
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding and retention of core subjects.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting respect, cooperation, and academic curiosity.
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies to meet diverse learning needs of students.
- Assessed student progress regularly, providing timely feedback to guide academic growth.
- Collaborated with parents and staff to support student development and address concerns effectively.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and best practices, enhancing overall teaching effectiveness.
- Promoted a positive learning environment by implementing effective classroom management strategies and maintaining consistent expectations.
Third Grade Teacher
Clara Byrd Baker Elementary
08.2003 - 06.2005
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to align with state standards.
- Fostered positive classroom environment promoting student collaboration and respect.
- Utilized diverse instructional strategies to accommodate varying learning styles.
- Assessed student progress through various formative and summative assessments.
- Assessed student understanding regularly using various formative assessment techniques, adjusting instruction accordingly for optimal results.
Education
Certificate of Advanced Educational Specialization - Religious Education
Boston College School of Theology and Ministry
05.2011
Master’s in Elementary Teaching/Bachelor’s of Arts - Religious Studies
University of Virginia/Curry School of Education
05.2003
Skills
- Instructional leadership and collaboration
- Pedagogical skills and instructional best practices
- Educational technology
- Subject matter expertise
- Curriculum mapping and rubric development
- Universal design for learning
- Classroom management
- Verbal and written communication
- Individualized instruction
- Assessment design and student evaluations
- Content development
- Project-based learning
MINISTRY EXPERIENCE
- St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church in Valley Forge, PA, Music Ministry Leader; instructed youth in church hymns and songs, 2025-2026
- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Williamsburg, VA, 2015-2025 led chanting during Holy Week liturgical services, developed Vacation Church School program for children, 2022
- St. Nicholas Orthodox Chapel, Camp LeJeune, NC, Byzantine Chanter, Camp LeJeune, NC, 2011, Led chanting during Holy Week liturgical services
- Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Wilmington, DE, Volunteer Teacher, Byzantine Chanter, Wilmington, DE, 2008-06, 2011-03, 2014-2022 Organized and implemented youth ministry programs such as summer Vacation Church School program, evening educational activities, Assisted with chanting and involving GOYA participation in liturgical services
- Camp Good Shepherd, New Jersey Metropolis, Curriculum Development and Organization, Staff, 2009-07, Organized and facilitated daily schedule of Orthodox Life sessions with participating clergy for three weeks of summer camp, Led daily Orthodox Life sessions with teens, Contributed to structuring daily schedule and materials, Facilitated activities such as teaching Byzantine chant, leading singing during liturgical services, and discussions among teens
- International Orthodox Christian Charities, Regional Committee Member, 2006, 2007
- Office of Young Adult Ministries, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, National Delegate, New Jersey Metropolis, 2001, 2004
- Orthodox Christian Fellowship, University of Virginia, Founder and President, 1998, 2003, Organized and maintained regular events and activities, Worked with other chapters, clergy, and community members to facilitate local and regional retreats
PUBLICATIONS
- Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious Education
- “Journey Through Great Lent” Teacher’s guide February 2011
- “For to Us a Child is Born” Teacher’s guide December 2008
- “Journey Through Holy Week” April 2008
- “Journey Through Holy Week” Teacher’s guide
- “What your child should know,” Parents’ guide October 2007
- Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Center for Family Care, Orthodox Observer
- “Multiple Intelligences and our Orthodox Faith” June 2009
- The Oculus Journal of Undergraduate Research, University of Virginia
- “Common Grounds Beyond the Noisy Throng: Jane Addams and the Chicago Greeks” May 2001
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
- St. Nicholas Orthodox Chapel, Camp LeJeune, NC April 2011
- Guest Speaker
- Offered didactic reflection on Scriptural and theological themes of Holy Week
- St. Emmelia Home-School Conference, Antiochian Village March 2011
- Presenter
- Offered presentation titled “Orthodox Christian Books and Literacy Learning,” based on graduate thesis research
- New Jersey Metropolis Regional Religious Education Seminar March 2011
- Keynote Speaker
- Offered presentation titled “Christ as Teacher” to regional parish-level religious educators
- Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Elkins Park, PA March 2010
- Offered educational presentation on the ministry of OCMC and previous mission experiences
- Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies, Richmond, VA August 2002
- Guest Speaker, Panel Participant
- Led seminar on Orthodox Christianity to high school World Religions class
- Participated on inter-faith panel
Timeline
Grade-Level Team Leader
Odyssey Charter School
08.2022 - Current
Language Immersion ELA Partner Teacher
Odyssey Charter School
11.2013 - Current
Contracted Curriculum Writer
Center for Family Care, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese
09.2010 - 05.2011
Fourth Grade Teacher
Odyssey Charter School
08.2009 - 06.2010
After-School Enrichment Educator
Building Educated Leaders for Life
09.2008 - 12.2008
Writing Companion
Boston College’s IREPM
09.2007 - 12.2008
Contracted Curriculum Writer
Department of Religious Education, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
09.2006 - 05.2013
Third Grade Teacher, Grade-Level Team Leader
Spring Hill Elementary
08.2005 - 06.2007
Third Grade Teacher
Clara Byrd Baker Elementary
08.2003 - 06.2005
Master’s in Elementary Teaching/Bachelor’s of Arts - Religious Studies
University of Virginia/Curry School of Education
Certificate of Advanced Educational Specialization - Religious Education
Boston College School of Theology and Ministry