Tamara Beth Midkiff
Branchland,WV
Summary
Dedicated and highly experienced first-grade educator with 35 years of service in Lincoln County Schools. Proven expertise in early literacy development, student engagement, and fostering a nurturing, inclusive classroom environment. Committed to academic excellence, family engagement, and developing the whole child through research-based instructional practices.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
First Grade Teacher
West Hamlin Elementary School – Lincoln County Schools
West Hamlin, West Virginia
2010 - Current
- Designed and implemented engaging, standards-based lessons aligned with West Virginia College- and Career-Readiness Standards
- Utilized data-driven instruction to improve student achievement in early literacy and numeracy
- Integrated foundational reading skills including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension
- Created a positive classroom environment that promotes social-emotional growth and student confidence
- Collaborated with colleagues, administrators, and families to support student success
- Differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs, including intervention and enrichment strategies
- Implemented classroom management systems that promote respect, responsibility, and independence
- Years of Service: 35 years
West Hamlin Elementary
01.2010 - Current
Ranger Elementary
01.1995 - 01.2010
Midkiff Elementary
01.1994 - 01.1995
Ferrellsburg Elementary
01.1993 - 01.1994
Hamlin Elementary
01.1992 - 01.1993
Woodville Elementary
01.1991 - 01.1992
Education
Master’s Degree - Reading Specialist
Marshall University
Huntington, WV01-1997
Bachelor of Science Degree - Elementary Education (K–8)
Marshall University
Huntington, WV01-1991
Skills
- Early Literacy Instruction (Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency)
- Data Analysis & Progress Monitoring (ELRS, DIBELS, etc)
- Classroom Management & PBIS Strategies
- Differentiated Instruction
- Family & Community Engagement
- Curriculum Development
- Technology Integration in the Classroom
Affiliations
- West Virginia Education Association (WVEA)
- American Federation of Teachers (AFT – WV)
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
- Engagement in school and community literacy events
- Participation in family outreach programs
- Support of community partnerships that enhance student learning opportunities
PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION
Every child deserves a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where they are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. I believe in fostering a love of learning through meaningful instruction, strong relationships, and high expectations that empower students to succeed.
LEADERSHIP & COLLABORATION
- Active participant in school-based teams and professional learning communities (PLCs)
- Mentor and support for new and beginning teachers
- Contributor to school improvement and literacy initiatives
- Collaboration with county and district-level educational programs
HONORS & RECOGNITION
Finalist, Hattie Harless Distinguished Teacher Award (2025), Perfect Attendance Recognition (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025), Active Participant in School Literacy Programs and Family Engagement Initiatives (2023–2026), Volunteer, Mobile Bookmobile Program (2021–2026), Partnered with Lincoln County Public Libraries (2021–2026), Volunteer Sunday School Teacher (2021–2022), Volunteer Handler, Therapy Literacy Dog Program – Izzi Reada Page (2021–2026)
Timeline
West Hamlin Elementary
01.2010 - Current
Ranger Elementary
01.1995 - 01.2010
Midkiff Elementary
01.1994 - 01.1995
Ferrellsburg Elementary
01.1993 - 01.1994
Hamlin Elementary
01.1992 - 01.1993
Woodville Elementary
01.1991 - 01.1992
First Grade Teacher
West Hamlin Elementary School – Lincoln County Schools
2010 - Current
Master’s Degree - Reading Specialist
Marshall University
Bachelor of Science Degree - Elementary Education (K–8)
Marshall University