Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Timeline
State of Iowa American Legion - Teacher of the Year 2024
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Tamara Stasi

Hiawatha,IA

Summary

I am a newly retired teacher. I am not done with my career, as my love and passion for teaching is still fresh and full of energy. My objective is to use the passion I have for teaching, to reach students in schools in a part-time or substitute role.


Overview

35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Classroom Teacher

Oelwein Community Schools
08.1997 - 05.2025
  • Participated actively in professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and best practices in teaching 5th grade students.
  • Assessed student progress regularly using formative and summative assessments, modifying instruction as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
  • Developed strong rapport with students, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lessons, connecting subject matter across various topics.

4th Grade and Title 1 Reading Teacher

Howard-Winneshiek School District
08.1992 - 05.1997
  • Organized literacy events, such as book clubs and author visits, inspiring a love of reading among students.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on trends and advancements in literacy education.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress, using this information to fine-tune instructional approaches as needed.
  • Conducted assessments to identify students'' reading levels, creating tailored interventions for improved progress.

6th Grade Teacher

Notre Dame Catholic School
08.1991 - 05.1992
  • Increased student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and group projects into lesson plans.
  • Collaborated with colleagues on curriculum development, integrating cross-curricular concepts into lesson plans for a more comprehensive learning experience.
  • Differentiated instruction for diverse learners, ensuring all students had access to appropriate materials and resources.
  • Led parent-teacher conferences effectively, discussing student performance openly while maintaining sensitivity towards individual family situations.

4th Grade Teacher

Tri-County School District
08.1990 - 05.1991
  • Collaborated with fellow teachers to design interdisciplinary lesson plans, reinforcing key concepts across subjects.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively, establishing clear expectations and consequences while fostering a respectful learning environment.
  • Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, addressing the unique needs of each student in the classroom.
  • Utilized assessment data to inform instructional decisions, tailoring lesson plans to target areas needing improvement.

Education

Master of Science - Educational Leadership And Management

Upper Iowa University
Fayette, IA
05-2008

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education/Reading Endorsement

University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
05-1990

Skills

  • Classroom management
  • Parent-teacher communication
  • Lesson planning
  • Technology integration
  • Language arts instruction
  • Field trip planning
  • Project-based learning
  • School improvement
  • Activity coordination
  • Behavior management
  • Motivating students

Accomplishments

Master Gardener - Volunteered to manage middle school garden

Reading Buddies - spent 20 years having mentorship with assisted living residents for monthly activities

Communicated weekly with parents through weekly emails and a Facebook page

Coaching - Girls assistant varsity and variety of youth teams

Organized yearly field trip to Herbert Hoover Museum for 20+ years

2024 - State of Iowa American Legion Teacher of the Year

2025 - Grand Marshall - Homecoming

Certification

  • Elementary Education - since 1990
  • Reading Endorsement - since 1990
  • Coaching Endorsement - since 1990

Timeline

Classroom Teacher

Oelwein Community Schools
08.1997 - 05.2025

4th Grade and Title 1 Reading Teacher

Howard-Winneshiek School District
08.1992 - 05.1997

6th Grade Teacher

Notre Dame Catholic School
08.1991 - 05.1992

4th Grade Teacher

Tri-County School District
08.1990 - 05.1991

Master of Science - Educational Leadership And Management

Upper Iowa University

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education/Reading Endorsement

University of Iowa

State of Iowa American Legion - Teacher of the Year 2024

I was recognized last summer for my social studies work: two contests a year, guest speakers three times a year, organizing Veteran's Day assembly for 20+ years, extra geography challenges, writing & sending care packages to those serving overseas, sending letters to Honor Flight Veterans, and more.

A community member and my principal nominated me. I was surprised during a school-wide assembly in front of the whole staff and students with the award. I went to Des Moines to formally receive my award and give a speech. This was the summer before my retirement.

Tamara Stasi