High School Teacher & College Counselor

Katrina S.

Credentialed in History, English, and Multiple Subjects, I taught in CA public schools since 2008, winning multiple awards including Teacher of the Year. Because I get bored doing the same thing for too long, I have taught from kindergarten to AP seniors, in all grades focusing on building skills for future success. As an AVID teacher and coordinator, I helped hundreds of kids get into university, many with full ride scholarships. Additionally, I have worked in my undergraduate university's Online Writing Lab, created classes for ESL adults and struggling elementary and high school readers as well as privately tutored students in AP and SAT review. My students told me that my balance of "strict, but fun" kept them motivated and focused.

I have a background in improv comedy and brought the mentality of "yes, and" into full classroom discussions as well as one-on-one tutoring sessions. I believe in using a socratic approach by asking clarifying questions and building on a student's prior knowledge, often shifting my lesson plan in the moment to ensure deep understanding. One principal observing me said my classroom was a 'masterclass in student engagement.' I believe that all students are capable, but sometimes we all learn a bit better with puppets . play-doh, or physical movement. While lecture and repetitious skill building have their place, the perk of a real-life grown up interested in helping build skills means the time set out is sacred to getting work done and building skills.

I left the classroom to work in educational publishing and curriculum design, but I miss seeing kids light up when they just get it.