Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Timeline
Generic

Willesia C. Kirkland

Florence

Summary

Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Sumter School District, excelling in lesson planning and curriculum development. Recognized for enhancing student engagement through technology integration and effective classroom management. Committed to fostering a positive learning environment, I consistently adapt instruction to meet diverse student needs, achieving significant academic improvements.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

5th Grade Teacher-Self Contained

Sumter School District
Sumter
08.2018 - 05.2025
  • Develop and implement comprehensive lesson plans that accommodate the full spectrum of student abilities, ensuring that each child grasps the material and remains engaged and motivated.
  • Utilize a variety of teaching strategies, including individualized instruction, group projects, and hands-on learning, to promote intellectual growth and understanding.
  • Assess student progress through regular quizzes, tests, and individual assessments, providing feedback and adapting lesson plans to meet the diverse needs of the class.
  • Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages student participation and promotes respect for all individuals.
  • Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and the school administration to support student learning and address any behavioral or academic issues.
  • Integrate technology into the curriculum to enhance learning experiences and prepare students for future technological advancements.
  • Manage classroom administration and maintain accurate student records, adhering to district policies and educational standards.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with educational best practices and advancements in teaching methodologies.

Virtual Teacher 4th Grade

FSD1
06.2021 - 08.2018
  • Plans a program of study that meets the needs, interests and abilities of students.
  • May teach multiple disciplines as assigned.
  • Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of the students.
  • Plans and prepares lesson plans and related activities for individual students or assigned classes.
  • Guides the learning process toward achievement of curriculum goals; establishes clear objectives for all lessons, units, projects, etc., and communicates these objectives to students.
  • Employs a variety of instructional techniques and media consistent with the physical limitations of the location provided and the needs and capabilities of students involved.
  • Grades work completed by students; maintains accurate records of test scores / grades.
  • Assesses the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provides progress reports as required.
  • Reports suspected learning and other disabilities to District specialist(s) as appropriate.
  • Maintains accurate, complete and up-to-date records as required by law, District policy and administrative regulation.
  • Assists the school administration in implementing all policies and rules governing student life and conduct; develops reasonable rules of classroom behavior and procedure and maintains order in the classroom in a fair and just manner.
  • Monitors the activities/behavior of the student body as scheduled to ensure student safety and well-being.
  • Assists individual students in need of special attention.
  • Supervises the work of teaching assistants and/or volunteers.
  • Maintains positive relationships with parents; schedules and conducts parent-teacher conferences; facilitates parent education workshops and conducts home visits as necessary.
  • Maintains inventory of classroom supplies and equipment; prepares supply requisitions as needed.
  • Coordinates and/or participates in special programs, projects or events as required; serves as adviser to student organizations, staffs and committees as appropriate.
  • Attends staff meetings and serves on various staff committees as required.
  • Participates in staff in-service training and continuing education as required.
  • Makes arrangements for substitute instructors as needed.
  • Operates various types of machinery and equipment including a computer, printer, copier, laminating machine, fax machine, audio-visual equipment, tape player, various curriculum-specific equipment or instruments, etc.

3-5 Math Teacher

Darlington County School District
Rosenwald
08.2010 - 06.2018
  • Developed an engaging curriculum across Math, Science, and Social Studies for elementary education.
  • Utilized data to assess student progress and tailor instruction for improved academic outcomes.
  • Recognized with the Palmetto Silver Award for educational excellence in 2013 and Palmetto Gold Award in 2014.
  • Named Rosenwald Elementary Middle Teacher of the Year for 2013-2014.
  • Collaborated on program development to align with educational goals and meet student needs.
  • Adapted teaching materials and methods in response to district policy changes and student interests.
  • Established clear objectives for all classroom activities.
  • Employed a variety of instructional methods to meet educational objectives.
  • Provided regular assessments and progress reports to monitor student achievement.
  • Analyzed student performance individually and sought additional support to address learning gaps.

5th Grade Teacher

FCSD4
Brockington
08.2007 - 06.2010
  • Instructs and assigns classes according to state standards and the school’s planned program of study to meet the individual needs, interests, and abilities of students.
  • Creates a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of the students.
  • Prepares for classes assigned, and shows written evidence of preparation upon request of immediate superior.
  • Encourages students to set and maintain standards of classroom behavior.
  • Guides the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum by establishing objectives for all lessons, units, projects and the like to communicate these objectives to students.
  • Employs a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media consistent with the physical limitations of the location provided and the needs and capabilities of the individuals or student groups involved.
  • Identifies the learning problems of students on a regular basis, seeking the assistance of school and district specialists as required.
  • Strives to implement by instruction and action the district’s philosophy of education and instructional goals and objectives.
  • Assesses the accomplishments of students in a regular basis and provides progress reports as required.
  • Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
  • Maintains accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulation.
  • Attends staff meetings and serves on staff committees as required.
  • Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and provides individualized, small group instruction in order to adapt the curriculum to the needs of the student.
  • Communicates with parents through conferences and other means to discuss students’ progress and interpret the school program.
  • Works with the communication coordinator to ensure that class’s webpage is up to date and informative.

2nd Grade Teacher

FSD1
North Vista
08.2005 - 06.2007
  • Plans a program of study that meets the needs, interests and abilities of students.
  • May teach multiple disciplines as assigned.
  • Creates a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of the students.
  • Plans and prepares lesson plans and related activities for individual students or assigned classes.
  • Guides the learning process toward achievement of curriculum goals; establishes clear objectives for all lessons, units, projects, etc., and communicates these objectives to students.
  • Employs a variety of instructional techniques and media consistent with the physical limitations of the location provided and the needs and capabilities of students involved.
  • Grades work completed by students; maintains accurate records of test scores / grades.
  • Assesses the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provides progress reports as required.
  • Reports suspected learning and other disabilities to District specialist(s) as appropriate.
  • Maintains accurate, complete and up-to-date records as required by law, District policy and administrative regulation.
  • Assists the school administration in implementing all policies and rules governing student life and conduct; develops reasonable rules of classroom behavior and procedure and maintains order in the classroom in a fair and just manner.
  • Monitors the activities/behavior of the student body as scheduled to ensure student safety and well-being.
  • Assists individual students in need of special attention.
  • Supervises the work of teaching assistants and/or volunteers.
  • Maintains positive relationships with parents; schedules and conducts parent-teacher conferences; facilitates parent education workshops and conducts home visits as necessary.
  • Maintains inventory of classroom supplies and equipment; prepares supply requisitions as needed.
  • Coordinates and/or participates in special programs, projects or events as required; serves as adviser to student organizations, staffs and committees as appropriate.
  • Attends staff meetings and serves on various staff committees as required.
  • Participates in staff in-service training and continuing education as required.
  • Makes arrangements for substitute instructors as needed.
  • Operates various types of machinery and equipment including a computer, printer, copier, laminating machine, fax machine, audio-visual equipment, tape player, various curriculum-specific equipment or instruments, etc.

5th Grade Math Teacher

Gaston County Schools, NC
Lingerfeldt
08.1999 - 06.2005
  • Under general oversight, designs, arranges, and delivers teaching and learning settings that assist students in acquiring knowledge and abilities essential for their academic and social growth.
  • Facilitates learning experiences and delivers the curriculum as outlined by the District-approved standards.
  • Designs and implements instructional materials tailored for verbal and/or visual learning for students with diverse mental, physical, and emotional development.
  • Provides individualized and group instruction aimed at addressing specific student needs and enhancing motivation.
  • Establishes and upholds standards of student behavior necessary for effective engagement in all classroom activities.
  • Assesses students' academic and social development, maintaining accurate records of their progress.
  • Delivers appropriate instruction and activities that align with school and district policies, goals, and objectives.
  • Engages with parents through various communication methods.
  • Conducts parent conferences to discuss individual student progress and explain the school program.
  • Identifies student needs and collaborates with other professionals to evaluate and assist students with health, attitude, and learning challenges.
  • Creates an inviting learning environment through functional and visually appealing displays like bulletin boards and interest centers.
  • Maintains professional growth through district-provided in-service education and additional professional development opportunities, including university courses.
  • Collaborates with the relevant administrator to establish evaluation methods in accordance with district guidelines.
  • Selects and requests instructional materials while keeping accurate inventory records.
  • Participates in the school-wide supervision of students during out-of-classroom activities.
  • Engages in faculty and/or district committees and supports student activities.
  • Experienced in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
  • Skilled in using Smartboard and other technology tools.
  • Performs additional related duties as necessary.

Education

Ed. Specialist - Brain SMART

Nova Southeastern University
Davie, FL
01-2007

Master of Arts - Education

Cambridge College
Cambridge, MA
02-2001

Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education

South Carolina State University
Orangeburg, SC
05-1999

Doctor of Education - Curriculum And Instruction

Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA

Skills

  • Lesson planning and curriculum development
  • Student assessment and classroom management
  • Technology integration and data analysis

Certification

  • Georgia Educator Certificate 931079

SRT ELEMENTARY EDUCATION (P-5) [FLD808] 07/01/25 TO 06/30/30
SRT GIFTED IN-FIELD [FLD881] 07/01/25 TO 06/30/30
SRT READING ENDORSEMENT [FLD833]

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Virtual Teacher 4th Grade

FSD1
06.2021 - 08.2018

5th Grade Teacher-Self Contained

Sumter School District
08.2018 - 05.2025

3-5 Math Teacher

Darlington County School District
08.2010 - 06.2018

5th Grade Teacher

FCSD4
08.2007 - 06.2010

2nd Grade Teacher

FSD1
08.2005 - 06.2007

5th Grade Math Teacher

Gaston County Schools, NC
08.1999 - 06.2005

Ed. Specialist - Brain SMART

Nova Southeastern University

Master of Arts - Education

Cambridge College

Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education

South Carolina State University

Doctor of Education - Curriculum And Instruction

Liberty University
Willesia C. Kirkland