Thad H. Austin
Public School Educator
Summary
Dynamic technology innovator with extensive hands-on experience in emerging technologies and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. Proven ability to identify opportunities for technological enhancements and implement effective, results-driven solutions. Expertise in leveraging cutting-edge tools and methodologies to motivate and engage students in culturally relevant modalities. Thrives in fast-paced learning environments while also meeting the needs of students seeking support in areas of growth.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
4
4
Languages
Work History
Teacher
Herbert Hoover Middle School, SFUSD
08.1997 - Current
- Teaching across multiple subjects including, English Language Arts, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, and Computer Sciences
- Served as science department co-chair, and Science Lead Teacher
- Served as teacher on special assignment in technology leadership and coaching position (2016 - 2022)
- Conducted regular assessments to evaluate student progress, adjusting instructional approaches to meet individual needs and maximize achievement.
- Organized and participated in school-wide events, enhancing community engagement and promoting a positive school culture.
- Collaborated with parents and guardians to provide updates on student progress, fostering strong home-school partnerships for student success.
- Engaged in continuous professional development to stay current with educational best practices and incorporate innovative teaching strategies.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
- Identified struggling students early on and provided additional support through tutoring sessions and modified lesson plans.
- Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Organized extracurricular activities such as clubs or field trips that enriched students' learning experiences outside traditional classroom settings.
- Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate.
- Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum.
- Shifted between formal and informal methods of teaching to keep students engaged.
Teacher
SFUSD
08.1996 - 06.1997
- Substitute teacher in San Francisco public schools, SFUSD
- Long-term substitute teacher, 8th grade, Marina Middle School, English Language Arts and Social Studies
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans that enhanced student understanding and fostered a positive classroom environment.
- Led collaborative projects with fellow educators to refine teaching methodologies and improve student learning outcomes.
- Mentored new teachers through structured training sessions, promoting effective instructional strategies and classroom management techniques.
- Utilized technology-based tools and resources to facilitate interactive learning experiences and support diverse learning styles.
Paraprofessional Educator
Malcolm X Academy Elementary School, SFUSD
03.1987 - 06.1996
- K-2 Special Education classroom, Malcolm X Academy Elementary School, SFUSD
- 1st grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, general education classrooms, Malcolm X Academy Elementary School, SFUSD
- Facilitated individualized instruction plans, enhancing student engagement and fostering academic growth in diverse learning environments.
- Collaborated with educators to implement classroom strategies, promoting positive behavior and supporting student development effectively.
- Assisted in the administration of assessments, ensuring accurate data collection to inform instructional decisions and track progress.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with students and families, contributing to a supportive and inclusive school community.
- Engaged in continuous professional development, refining instructional techniques and remaining current with educational trends and methodologies.
- Monitored student classroom and outdoors activities to promote student safety.
- Maintained safety and security by overseeing students in recess environments.
- Provided support during classes, group lessons, and classroom activities.
- Aided teachers in coordinating extracurricular events and field trips, providing enriching experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting.
After School Recreation Program Director
San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department
03.1987 - 06.1989
- Running site-based (SFUSD) afterschool recreation program with K-8 San Francisco County residents for San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department
- Developed and implemented engaging recreational programs that enhanced youth participation and fostered community engagement.
- Oversaw staff training and development, leading to improved program delivery and participant satisfaction rates.
- Collaborated with local organizations to expand resources and opportunities for after-school activities, enriching community partnerships.
- Managed program budgets efficiently, ensuring optimal allocation of resources and enhancing financial accountability.
Public School Bus Driver
Pajaro Valley Unified School District, Santa Cruz County Office of Education
06.1984 - 12.1986
- Safely transported students to and from school, ensuring adherence to all traffic regulations and safety protocols.
- Conducted routine vehicle inspections and maintenance checks, promoting safe and reliable transportation for students.
- Managed student behavior on the bus, fostering a respectful and conducive environment during transit.
- Communicated effectively with parents and school staff regarding transportation schedules and student needs.
- Assisted students with boarding and exiting bus to reduce safety issues.
- Transported passengers safely along prescribed routes according to tight schedules.
- Obeyed federal, [State] and local traffic laws and regulations to enable safe transportation outcomes for participants.
- Assisted passengers with disabilities and other physical issues in boarding and exiting bus to promote passenger safety.
- Assisted in maintaining bus cleanliness with regular sanitizing and disinfecting.
Education
Master of Arts - Educational Administrative Leadership
12.2025
Relevant Courses: Administrative Processes, Practicum: Site Administration, Law and Education, Seminar: Educational Research, Educational Planning: Technology and Evaluation, Change Process and Education, School Administration, Curricular Leadership and Multicultural Education, Special Education Administration, Internship Project- Educational Administration
Master of Arts - Teaching
05.2008
Relevant Courses: School Mathematics: Problem-Solving, Assessing Math Thinking, Sem: Leadership Development in Math Education, Special Studies (mathematics), Sem: Educational Research, Field Study (mathematics), Research in Education
- Research Project: Problem Solving Curriculum
Supplementary Authorization - Mathematics
05.2000
Relevant Courses: Math in Middle Schools I, II, III
Bachelor of Arts Cum Laude - Third World Perspectives (Cinema), American Genres, African Cultural Styles of Expression, Philosophy of Art, Film Hist. II, Film Production I, Avant Garde Film, Imagery and Metaphor
08.1996
Relevant Courses: Third World Perspectives (Cinema), American Genres, African Cultural Styles of Expression, Philosophy of Art, Film Hist. II, Film Production I, Avant Garde Film, Imagery and Metaphor
- cum laude graduate
Skills
Mathematics Education: Curriculum Specialist
Accomplishments
- Designed and conducted a series of well-received professional development workshops for Herbert Hoover Middle School staff in TOSA position from 2016 to 2022. In this capacity, developed a student-led coaching team, "Student Tech Team", that leveraged emerging educational technologies for the entire school site.
- Technology Integration - Coached staff in technology training courses and trained colleagues in new technology concepts and practices applicable for the classroom.
- Curriculum Development - Tailored science curriculum to students with range of learning styles, disabilities, strengths and weaknesses. Developed innovative grade-level lesson plans and practical application exercises for California public schools in partnership with the Stanford Graduate School for Education to align with new NGSS standards.
Timeline
Teacher - Herbert Hoover Middle School, SFUSD
08.1997 - Current
Teacher - SFUSD
08.1996 - 06.1997
Paraprofessional Educator - Malcolm X Academy Elementary School, SFUSD
03.1987 - 06.1996
After School Recreation Program Director - San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department
03.1987 - 06.1989
Public School Bus Driver - Pajaro Valley Unified School District, Santa Cruz County Office of Education
06.1984 - 12.1986
University of San Francisco - Master of Arts, Educational Administrative Leadership
University of San Francisco - Master of Arts, Teaching
University of San Francisco - Supplementary Authorization, Mathematics
San Francisco State University - Bachelor of Arts Cum Laude, Third World Perspectives (Cinema), American Genres, African Cultural Styles of Expression, Philosophy of Art, Film Hist. II, Film Production I, Avant Garde Film, Imagery and Metaphor
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