Tara Cunningham
Tustin,CA
Summary
Professional educator skilled in creating dynamic, inclusive classroom experiences that drive student success. Adept at leveraging diverse instructional strategies to meet varied learning needs, ensuring comprehensive understanding of material. Known for collaborative approach and adaptability in ever-evolving educational settings, with focus on critical thinking and communication.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Tutoring Manager
Tutoring Techniques
Tustin, CA
09.2020 - Current
- Supervised tutoring programs, ensuring adherence to educational standards and best practices.
- Trained and mentored tutors, promoting effective teaching strategies and student engagement techniques.
- Developed curriculum materials aligned with learning objectives to enhance tutoring effectiveness.
- Conducted performance evaluations for tutors, providing constructive feedback for professional growth.
ELD Coordinator
Alta Public Schools
Huntington Park, CA
11.2024 - 06.2025
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive English Language Development curriculum that improved student engagement.
- Coordinated professional development workshops for staff, enhancing instructional strategies for the diverse needs of English learners and resulting in an 11% increase in student performance metrics.
- Monitored and analyzed ELD program data to identify trends, leading to targeted interventions that boosted English proficiency levels among 80 students by 40%.
- Coordinated scheduling and logistical support for school events and activities.
Combo Support Teacher
Azusa Unified School District
Azusa, CA
10.2023 - 06.2024
- Assisted teachers in classroom management and daily operations.
- Supported curriculum implementation through engaging educational activities.
- Facilitated individual student learning plans to enhance academic performance.
- Collaborated with staff to create inclusive learning environments for diverse students.
English instructor
Online
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Taught World History and IEW
- Project -based learning
- Taught rising 4 th Grader in a specialized summer program
- Developed engaging project based lessons
- Established a love of learning to last a lifetime.
Writing instructor
Can Achieve Global Academy
10.2017 - 01.2019
- Tutor grades K – 12 in best practices in writing
- Worked with Chinese students to increase language and grammar skills.
- Facilitated workshops focusing on academic writing techniques and critical thinking skills.
Substitute/RTI/ELD Support Teacher
Tustin Unified School District
01.2008 - 11.2023
- Assisted in implementing individualized education plans for diverse learners.
- Supported classroom management by facilitating student engagement and participation.
- Collaborated with teachers to develop instructional materials and resources.
- Monitored student progress and provided feedback to enhance learning outcomes.
Teacher
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach, CA
06.2022 - 08.2022
- Implemented online learning tools and activities to meet individual learning needs.
- Developed and implemented strategies to engage and motivate students.
Teacher
Fairmont Private Schools
San Juan Capistrano, CA
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Taught Honors English Grades 6-9 Developed accelerated curriculum
- Worked closely with students and parents to achieve academic excellence.
- Implemented diverse instructional strategies to accommodate various learning styles.
Teacher
FLEX College Prep
Irvine, CA
09.2020 - 06.2023
- Created an accelerated program for 6th grade pod Challenged students with advanced projects
- Taught accelerated writing program to middle school summer students.
AESL Teacher
Tustin Unified School District
Irvine, CA
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Created lessons consistent with literacy standards
- Modifid curriculum to multi-level learners Team teach with AESL staff to give the program a solid foundation.
- Facilitated classroom discussions to promote critical thinking and collaboration.
Initiate AESL program
Saddleback College
Irvine, CA
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Create individualized programs for students Coordinate with team to ensure best learning results.
Early Literacy Consultant and Trainer
Orange County Commission of Children & Families
Irvine, CA
10.2015 - 06.2018
- Developed a training program for Reach Out and Read to be used in pediatric offices Trained pediatricians and staff members on utilization of Reach Out & Read Collaborated and created a DVD to play at pediatric offices to promote literacy.
Teacher
Garden Grove Unified School District
Garden Grove, CA
09.1995 - 06.2003
- Taught all grade levels K-6 Organized Red Ribbon Week Created an after-school literacy program for students Initiated and taught an AELD program Reading Readiness specialist Lead teacher and curriculum coordinator.
Education
Master’s - Clinical Mental Health
University of Phoenix
CA02-2021
Clear Credential - Education
California State University Long Beach
Long Beach, CACertificate - Education
California State University Long Beach
Long Beach, CABachelor of Arts - Diversified Liberal Arts
University of San Diego
San DiegoSkills
- Instructional Training
- Motivating students
- Innovative lesson planning
- Assessment strategies
- Relationship building
- Positive role model and mentor
- Critical thinking
- Differentiated instruction
- Social-emotional learning training
- Data-driven instruction
Languages
Spanish
Elementary
Influential Women-March 2026
I find joy each day in assisting others to achieve their personal goals, to overcome hindrances and find success. Success means something different to each individual and it is my goal to be a catalyst in that journey.
Timeline
ELD Coordinator
Alta Public Schools
11.2024 - 06.2025
Combo Support Teacher
Azusa Unified School District
10.2023 - 06.2024
Teacher
Fairmont Private Schools
08.2022 - 05.2023
Teacher
Laguna Beach
06.2022 - 08.2022
English instructor
Online
01.2022 - 01.2023
Tutoring Manager
Tutoring Techniques
09.2020 - Current
Teacher
FLEX College Prep
09.2020 - 06.2023
Writing instructor
Can Achieve Global Academy
10.2017 - 01.2019
AESL Teacher
Tustin Unified School District
01.2016 - 01.2019
Early Literacy Consultant and Trainer
Orange County Commission of Children & Families
10.2015 - 06.2018
Initiate AESL program
Saddleback College
01.2015 - 01.2018
Substitute/RTI/ELD Support Teacher
Tustin Unified School District
01.2008 - 11.2023
Teacher
Garden Grove Unified School District
09.1995 - 06.2003
Master’s - Clinical Mental Health
University of Phoenix
Clear Credential - Education
California State University Long Beach
Certificate - Education
California State University Long Beach
Bachelor of Arts - Diversified Liberal Arts
University of San Diego