Sandra Williford
Summerville
Summary
Experienced with educational leadership and student development. Utilizes strategic planning to improve academic outcomes and support teacher growth. Knowledge of creating collaborative environment and managing administrative tasks efficiently.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Principal
Charleston County School District
07.2023 - Current
- Partnered with principal to administer school program in alignment with vision and goals, providing positive, high-expectation academic environment.
- Supported a positive school culture by addressing student behavior concerns promptly and effectively.
- Enhanced teacher effectiveness through regular classroom observations and feedback sessions.
- Performed classroom evaluations to assess teacher strategies and effectiveness.
- Built and maintained positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, such as parents, school volunteers and outside agencies.
Music Instructor
Berkeley County School District - Goose Creek Elem
08.2020 - Current
- Provided instruction in one-on-one environment for students of varied age and ability.
- Instructed students in music theory and composition in classroom environment.
- Prepared students for auditions for institutions by aiding with music selection, assigning practice hours required for mastery of piece, and assessing progress and accuracy in playing.
- Provided support for musical and vocal audition preparation.
- Instructed students from kindergarten to 5th grade in playing various instruments, reading sheet music and general music appreciation.
- Developed and presented lessons on range of music-related subjects for classes of up to 30 students.
- Fostered inviting and comfortable learning environments for students to promote enthusiasm for musical instruments and commitment to practicing.
- Familiarized students with basic concepts of music such as notes, tempo, symphony, beats, compositions and chords.
- Taught music appreciation, history and fundamentals to vocalists and musicians of varying skill levels.
- Planned and executed targeted lesson plans to instruct on music theory, music history and performance etiquette.
- Coordinated concerts and special events for Chorus and Step.
Music Instructor
Chicago Public School District
08.2017 - 07.2020
- Provided instruction in one-on-one environment for students of varied age and ability.
- Instructed students in music theory and composition in classroom environment.
- Prepared students for auditions for institutions by aiding with music selection, assigning practice hours required for mastery of piece, and assessing progress and accuracy in playing.
- Provided support for musical and vocal audition preparation.
- Taught students to master instrument of choice during weekly lessons.
- Familiarized students with basic concepts of music such as notes, tempo, symphony, beats, compositions and chords.
- Taught music appreciation, history and fundamentals to vocalists and musicians of varying skill levels.
- Planned and executed targeted lesson plans to instruct on music theory, music history and performance etiquette.
Director of Music
RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
07.2015 - 08.2017
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, performances, projects, assignments, and papers
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions
- Explain and demonstrate artistic techniques
- Prepare course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
- Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records
- Prepare students for performances, exams, or assessments
- Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, course materials, and methods of instruction
- Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others
- Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences
- Select and obtain materials and supplies such as textbooks and performance pieces
- Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and on career issues
- Keep students informed of community events such as plays and concerts
- Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues
- Participate in campus and community events
- Organize performance groups and direct their rehearsals
- Act as advisers to student organizations.
Music Specialist
ANDERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT FIVE
07.2000 - 07.2015
- Use gestures to shape the music being played, communicating desired tempo, phrasing, tone, color, pitch, volume, and other performance aspects
- Direct groups at rehearsals and live or recorded performances in order to achieve desired effects such as tonal and harmonic balance dynamics, rhythm, and tempo
- Plan and schedule rehearsals and performances, and arrange details such as locations, accompanists, and instrumentalists
- Consider such factors as ensemble size and abilities, availability of scores, and the need for musical variety, in order to select music to be performed
- Position members within groups to obtain balance among instrumental or vocal sections
- Transcribe musical compositions and melodic lines to adapt them to a particular group, or to create a particular musical style
- Audition and select performers for musical presentations
- Perform administrative tasks such as applying for grants, developing budgets, negotiating contracts, and designing and printing programs and other promotional materials
- Plan and implement fund-raising and promotional activities
- Coordinate and organize tours, or hire touring companies to arrange concert dates, venues, accommodations, and transportation for longer tours
- Meet with composers to discuss interpretations of their work
- Study scores to learn the music in detail, and to develop interpretations.
Music Specialist
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
07.1998 - 07.2000
- Direct groups at rehearsals and live or recorded performances in order to achieve desired effects such as tonal and harmonic balance dynamics, rhythm, and tempo
- Perform administrative tasks such as applying for grants, developing budgets, negotiating contracts, and designing and printing programs and other promotional materials
- Plan and implement fund-raising and promotional activities
- Audition and select performers for musical presentations
- Position members within groups to obtain balance among instrumental or vocal sections
- Consider such factors as ensemble size and abilities, availability of scores, and the need for musical variety, in order to select music to be performed
- Plan and schedule rehearsals and performances, and arrange details such as locations, accompanists, and instrumentalists.
Education
Gifted & Talented Education - undefined
Ph.D. - Leadership And Educational Administration
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN01.2014
Master of Arts - Elementary
Southern Wesleyan University
Central, SC12.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Music Education
Anderson University
Anderson, SC05.1998
BA - Music Performance
Charleston Southern University
Charleston, SC12.1995
Skills
- Campus and Community Events
- Colleague Collaboration
- Parent engagement and communication
- Student achievement
- Data-driven instruction
- Course Material Preparation
- Student and parent relations
- Mentor Trained
- Restorative practices
- South Carolina Teaching Standards 40 Trained
- Instructional leadership
Additional Information
- AWARDS AND HONORS , Recipient of $10,000 Capella Scholarship 2007 Anderson School District Five District Teacher of the Year Finalist 2007 Varennes Teacher of the Year 2008 Palmetto State Teachers Association STAR Teacher
Stepping Up Award - May, 2025
Stepping Up Award – Office of Educator Effectiveness and Leadership Development
Recognized for exemplifying outstanding leadership, dedication, and initiative by stepping up to lead and support the entire school community during the Principal’s absence. Demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring continuity, stability, and excellence during a critical period, positively impacting staff, students, and overall school operations.
Timeline
Assistant Principal
Charleston County School District
07.2023 - Current
Music Instructor
Berkeley County School District - Goose Creek Elem
08.2020 - Current
Music Instructor
Chicago Public School District
08.2017 - 07.2020
Director of Music
RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
07.2015 - 08.2017
Music Specialist
ANDERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT FIVE
07.2000 - 07.2015
Music Specialist
GREENVILLE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
07.1998 - 07.2000
Gifted & Talented Education - undefined
Master of Arts - Elementary
Southern Wesleyan University
Bachelor of Arts - Music Education
Anderson University
BA - Music Performance
Charleston Southern University
Ph.D. - Leadership And Educational Administration
Capella University
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