Stewart Díaz Mogollón
Stratford
Summary
Cultural and Applied Anthropologist with experience in curricular reform and program coordination. Led initiatives that fostered family and community engagement while implementing innovative educational solutions. Bilingual educator specializing in cross-cultural initiatives and student engagement, enhancing learning experiences for diverse populations.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Cultural & Applied Anthropologist
Institución Etnoeducativa Distrital Tairona de Bunkwimake (IEDTB)
06.2015 - Current
- Collaborated with Ethnoeducational Institutions (IEs) in Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, Colombia, on 20-year project (2005-2025) with Arhuacan, Wiwa, and Kogi indigenous communities, enhancing educational frameworks and cultural preservation.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Spanish Teacher and Soccer Coach
Canterbury School
New Milford
08.2024 - 12.2025
- Taught Span 3 and 3 Honors and served as Assistant Soccer Coach, Varsity Boy’s Soccer.
- Advised five students on academic and personal matters, fostering their overall development.
- Managed weekly and weekend responsibilities as dorm parent, prioritizing student safety and well-being.
Spanish Lead Teacher and Soccer Coach
Kolbe Cathedral HS
Bridgeport
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Directed Advanced Spanish Program as Lead Spanish Teacher and coached Boy's Varsity Soccer team, fostering language skills and team spirit during Fall 2022.
- Executed 092 Intern responsibilities under Principal Mrs. Camille Figluizzi for Sat. Cohort Program at SHU, supporting curriculum development and student engagement.
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse student needs.
- Guided classroom activities promoting critical thinking and creativity.
- Implemented assessment strategies to evaluate student progress effectively.
Spanish Teacher
Catholic Academy of Bridgeport, St Augustine Academy
Bridgeport
08.2020 - 06.2022
- Developed elementary and middle school Spanish curriculum during Covid period for grades 4-5 and 6-8, ensuring continuity of language education.
- Designed student learning tracks (beginner, intermediate, advanced proficiency levels) to facilitate differentiated instruction in split-teaching modalities.
- Established soccer club for grades 4-5 and 6-8, promoting teamwork and cultural engagement through sports.
HS Spanish Intern
Greenwich High School
Greenwich
08.2019 - 06.2020
- Taught Spanish AP classes under supervision of Internship Supervisor Marisol Yika, improving student language proficiency and academic performance.
- Collaborated with STEM staff and World Language Dept. on Solar Energy Panels Project, integrating language learning with environmental education.
- Established Hispanic Heritage Committee, fostering cultural awareness and community engagement.
HS Spanish, Alpha Program, and SHS Assistant Soccer Coach
Stratford Board of Education
Stratford
09.2018 - 06.2019
- Assistant Coach of the Year Award; Fall 2018.
- Supported at-risk students in Alpha Program by providing targeted academic assistance.
- Developed practice plans to enhance player skills and team performance.
- Coached players during games, providing strategic guidance and support.
- Organized team schedules, ensuring effective communication with players and families.
HS Spanish Teacher & Assistant Soccer Coach
The Oakwood Friends School
Poughkeepsie
07.2017 - 07.2018
- Taught Spanish 1-4, grades 9-12. Vista’s Spanish Program.
- Led the Spanish study abroad program to Oaxaca in Spring 2018.
- Coached soccer team as assistant, fostering teamwork and sportsmanship, recognized with New England Coaches’ Association Sportsmanship Award.
- Coordinated donation drive and video exchange program with Arhuacan, Kogi, and Wiwa Schools in Colombia, enhancing cultural exchange and learning opportunities.
- Advised 9th grade students on academic planning and course selection, guiding them toward appropriate educational pathways.
- Led 3-Week Student Trip, Service Project Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, Colombia; Summer 2018.
HS Spanish and Anthropology Teacher (full time)
The Woodhall School
Bethlehem
08.2015 - 07.2017
- Taught Spanish 1-4 Grades 9-12; 2015-2017.
- Coordinated donation drive and video program for Indigenous schools in Northern Colombia, enhancing cultural exchange and community engagement, grades 9-12, 2015-17.
- Coached the varsity soccer team, achieving an 8-2-1 winning season.
- Assisted as wrestling coach for the varsity team from 2015 to 2017.
- Advised three students on academic progress and career planning, fostering their personal growth and educational success.
- Supervised 32 students in residential life program, promoting a supportive living environment and personal development.
- Held a CDL license and transported soccer and wrestling teams for away games.
HS Spanish and Anthropology Teacher
The Mount Madonna School
Watsonville
08.2014 - 08.2015
- Taught Spanish and Anthropology, grades 9-11.
- Designed and taught engaging Spanish and Anthropology courses for grades 8-11, fostering student interest and cultural understanding.
- Developed Video Exchange Program with Indigenous Schools in Northern Colombia, enriching students' global perspective and cultural exchange.
- Coordinated student activities and logistics for MMS Outdoor Education Program, enhancing experiential learning during the 2014-15 school year.
- Provided support for Ramayana School Production by helping with rehearsal coordination and set preparation in 2015.
- Supported middle school camping trip in Redwood National Forest by coordinating activities and ensuring student safety.
HS Spanish and Anthropology Teacher
Brightmont Academy
Seattle
06.2013 - 07.2014
- Instructed students in Anthropology and Spanish 1-2 Honors courses, fostering cultural awareness and language proficiency.
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to student needs and learning styles.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting respect and collaboration among students.
- Implemented innovative teaching strategies utilizing technology to enhance learning experiences.
Spanish Program Director (Early Education)
Our Beginning School
Freemont
01.2013 - 05.2013
- Developed Spanish immersion program for preschoolers, ages 3-5, fostering language acquisition and cultural awareness.
- Delivered caregiving and support teaching in preschool classroom, enhancing children's learning experiences and development.
- Developed curriculum frameworks aligning with early childhood education standards.
- Coordinated staff training sessions to enhance teaching skills and methodologies.
- Managed daily operations ensuring a safe and nurturing learning environment.
Spanish Program Director (Early Education)
Bright Horizons
South Lake Union
04.2012 - 01.2013
- Developed 'One World Village', a developmentally appropriate Spanish curriculum enhancing language acquisition and cultural awareness.
- Designed curriculum integrating music, cultural games/projects, and vocabulary adventures to foster environmental stewardship and global citizenship in students.
- Provided personal care and support in classroom settings.
Spanish Teacher
Seattle Languages International
Seattle
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Instructed Spanish language classes for various age groups, including elementary school students and adults, in a structured educational environment.
- Developed engaging lesson plans for diverse Spanish language learners.
- Facilitated interactive classroom discussions to enhance student participation.
- Implemented innovative teaching methods to promote language acquisition.
HS Spanish Teacher
The Bridge Academy Charter School
Bridgeport
06.2008 - 06.2009
- Taught Spanish 1-3 at inner-city Charter School, The Bridge Academy, grades 9-12.
- Received high marks for classroom teaching, lesson plans, and instructional materials in multicultural context, grades 9-12, including students with IEPs.
- Designed and implemented a Spanish curriculum tailored for inner-city students using the Exprésate Program.
- Developed innovative language and culture teaching approaches through experiential learning (e.g., classroom outings to restaurants) and integrated technology, enhancing engagement in school-wide literacy program.
- Established after-school soccer club for student engagement.
Spanish Teacher
Bunnell High School
Stratford
01.2002 - 01.2008
- Instructed students in Spanish levels 2 through 5.
- Created engaging lesson plans tailored to meet diverse learning needs.
- Led interactive classroom discussions, promoting active participation and language skill development.
- Monitored student progress through regular quizzes and assignments, providing timely feedback for improvement.
- Worked as a long-term Spanish substitute under World Languages Director, Michael Camporiale, Stratford Board of Education.
EFL Program Director
Instituto Distrital Tairona de Bunkwimake (IEDTB)
Village of Bunkwimake
01.2005 - 01.2006
- Directed English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Program for the Arhuacan Ethnoeducational Institution, the IEDTB.
- Designed EFL curriculum for grades 4-11 to enhance language proficiency and cultural understanding.
- Developed pilot program in intercultural environmental education (IEE) while pursuing graduate-level diploma in Spanish focused on ethnoeducation.
- Conducted ethnographic research, including surveys, observations, and interviews to design bilingual-exchange component (Díaz-Mogollón, 2009).
Teen Trip Leader
YMCA, Camp Woodstock
Woodstock
01.2004 - 12.2004
- Led weekly Outdoor Education Trips, including: Sea Kayaking (Bar Harbor, Maine), Biking (Martha’s Vineyard, MA), White Water River Rafting, and Camping (Kennebec River, Maine) to 10-15 HS Students.
- Managed trip preparation, including food logistics, equipment maintenance, and facilitated group building activities to foster teamwork.
- Co-supervised rock climbing sessions at Otter Cliffs (Maine), ensuring safety and engagement for participants.
Assistant Teacher
King’s Highway Elementary (YMCA Afterschool Program)
Westport
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Supervised and developed extra-curricular activities for 15-20 children, fostering teamwork and personal growth.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to promote a positive learning environment.
- Assisted lead teacher in planning and executing engaging lesson activities, enhancing student participation and learning experiences.
- Supervised student groups during recreational and educational activities, ensuring safety and promoting positive interactions.
- Established Art Club and Soccer Club to enhance student engagement.
Program Coordinator
Sterling House Community Center
Stratford
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Coordinated Smart Buddies Tutoring Program for grades 3-6, fostering academic support and engagement.
- Supervised program development, trained tutors, and monitored students’ progress on a weekly basis.
- Developed and coordinated community programs promoting health and wellness initiatives, enhancing local outreach and participation.
- Managed schedules and logistics for events and activities at center, ensuring smooth operations and effective resource use.
- Collaborated with local organizations to enhance community outreach efforts.
Naturalist and Poetry Instructor/Counselor
Four Winds-Westward Ho
Deer Harbor
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Taught poetry and outdoor education classes, engaging 15-20 students, ages 9-14, in creative expression and environmental awareness.
- Co-directed Nature Magic environmental education program, enhancing children's understanding of nature through hands-on activities.
- Supervised two groups of boys, ages 7-12, fostering a safe and supportive learning environment.
Program Coordinator
Rosemary Children’s Services
Pasadena
01.2000 - 01.2001
- Coordinated weekend recreational outings for 20+ residential students, fostering social skills and community integration.
- Trained 10 counsellors in Creative Writing, Movement, Directing, and Crafts to expand their skill sets.
- Developed Day Treatment Curriculum using Art Therapy Methodology to enhance therapeutic engagement.
Naturalist Educator
Moran Outdoor School
East Sound
03.2000 - 11.2000
- Delivered Environmental Education curriculum covering micro forestry, wetlands, arboreal study, kayaking, group building, and creative nature writing.
- Led groups of 8-12 Elementary & Middle School Students in over-night backpacking trips.
- Instructed Saturday programs for high school students, Girl Scouts, and home school groups.
Assistant Teacher
Trumbull Loves Children
Trumbull
01.2000 - 05.2000
- Assisted in planning and implementing engaging educational activities for students.
- Supported classroom management by maintaining a positive and safe learning environment.
- Developed and implemented group games, crafts, and special activities while monitoring homework to enhance student engagement and learning.
- Supervised multi-cultural after-school program to promote inclusivity and cultural awareness.
- Facilitated effective communication among students, parents, and teaching staff to foster a supportive educational environment.
Youth Group Coordinator
Sterling House Community Center
Stratford
01.2000 - 05.2000
- Instructed group of 6-15 high school students on community service and youth development principles.
- Organized youth programs and activities to foster engagement and personal growth at local community center.
- Coordinated volunteer schedules, ensuring effective staffing for youth events and initiatives.
- Developed a mission statement and created weekly meeting agendas.
- Developed engaging lesson plans for educational workshops and sessions.
EFL Professor
La Universidad Politécnica Santa Fé de Bogotá
Bogotá
01.1998 - 01.1999
- Delivered EFL instruction in Film and TV Production Department, enhancing students' language skills relevant to industry.
- Instructed levels 1, 4, 5 using Cambridge materials for 15-20 college students, fostering language proficiency and cultural understanding.
- Coordinated University’s Advanced English Program, level 6, ensuring curriculum alignment with academic standards and student needs.
EFL Teacher (concurrent with Diploma studies)
EL Colombo Americano Language Institute
Bogotá
01.1997 - 01.1999
- Taught EFL full-time for Teacher’s Foundation (Fundación para la promoción y difusión del inglés) while pursuing advanced Diplomas in Latin American Culture and Literary Criticism at Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
- Delivered English as a Foreign Language instruction to levels 1-6A in adult program, facilitating language acquisition and communication skills.
- Completed over 30 hours of in-service training in classroom management and adult English teaching techniques, enhancing instructional effectiveness.
- Completed 152 hours of pre-service training in teaching methodologies.
Education
Master of Arts - Anthropology
Universidad De Los Andes
Bogotá, Colombia 01.2009
Diploma - Ethnoeducation
Universidad Del Magdalena
Santa Marta, Colombia06-2005
Bachelor of Arts - Double Major: English & Theatre Arts
Virgia Tech
Blacksburg, VA06-1998
Skills
- Intercultural initiatives
- Community engagement
- Curricular reform
- School change plans
- Educational solutions
- Program coordination
- Instructional leadership
- Team data analysis
- Bilingual education
- Cultural sensitivity
- Athletic program development
- Student engagement
References
Available upon request
Academic Publications Works And Honors
- Hacia el corazón de los cuatro vientos y un marco abierto: El Plan EAI para la Institución Etnoeducativa Tairona de Bunkwimake., Díaz-Mogollón, S., 2009, Universidad de los Andes, Master’s Thesis, Spanish
- From Rethinking to Transforming Environmental Education and Higher Education in the U.S. and Colombia., Díaz-Mogollon, S., 2019, Fairfield University, ED 429, Fall 2019
- Inducted to the National Jesuit Honor Society, Alpha Sigma Nu, 10/20, Fairfield University
Certification
092 Intermediate Administrator License, CSDE.
Accomplishments
National Jesuit Honor Society, Alpha Sigma Nu; inducted Oct 2020, Fairfield University.
Timeline
Spanish Teacher and Soccer Coach
Canterbury School
08.2024 - 12.2025
Spanish Lead Teacher and Soccer Coach
Kolbe Cathedral HS
08.2022 - 06.2023
Spanish Teacher
Catholic Academy of Bridgeport, St Augustine Academy
08.2020 - 06.2022
HS Spanish Intern
Greenwich High School
08.2019 - 06.2020
HS Spanish, Alpha Program, and SHS Assistant Soccer Coach
Stratford Board of Education
09.2018 - 06.2019
HS Spanish Teacher & Assistant Soccer Coach
The Oakwood Friends School
07.2017 - 07.2018
HS Spanish and Anthropology Teacher (full time)
The Woodhall School
08.2015 - 07.2017
Cultural & Applied Anthropologist
Institución Etnoeducativa Distrital Tairona de Bunkwimake (IEDTB)
06.2015 - Current
HS Spanish and Anthropology Teacher
The Mount Madonna School
08.2014 - 08.2015
HS Spanish and Anthropology Teacher
Brightmont Academy
06.2013 - 07.2014
Spanish Program Director (Early Education)
Our Beginning School
01.2013 - 05.2013
Spanish Program Director (Early Education)
Bright Horizons
04.2012 - 01.2013
Spanish Teacher
Seattle Languages International
01.2010 - 01.2012
HS Spanish Teacher
The Bridge Academy Charter School
06.2008 - 06.2009
EFL Program Director
Instituto Distrital Tairona de Bunkwimake (IEDTB)
01.2005 - 01.2006
Teen Trip Leader
YMCA, Camp Woodstock
01.2004 - 12.2004
Spanish Teacher
Bunnell High School
01.2002 - 01.2008
Assistant Teacher
King’s Highway Elementary (YMCA Afterschool Program)
01.2002 - 01.2003
Program Coordinator
Sterling House Community Center
01.2002 - 01.2003
Naturalist Educator
Moran Outdoor School
03.2000 - 11.2000
Naturalist and Poetry Instructor/Counselor
Four Winds-Westward Ho
01.2000 - 01.2002
Program Coordinator
Rosemary Children’s Services
01.2000 - 01.2001
Assistant Teacher
Trumbull Loves Children
01.2000 - 05.2000
Youth Group Coordinator
Sterling House Community Center
01.2000 - 05.2000
EFL Professor
La Universidad Politécnica Santa Fé de Bogotá
01.1998 - 01.1999
EFL Teacher (concurrent with Diploma studies)
EL Colombo Americano Language Institute
01.1997 - 01.1999
Master of Arts - Anthropology
Universidad De Los Andes
Diploma - Ethnoeducation
Universidad Del Magdalena
Bachelor of Arts - Double Major: English & Theatre Arts
Virgia Tech