My first teaching experience was in a Title One school. I was hired as their first remedial Reading Teacher for 7-12 graders and walked into my first classroom without a curriculum. While creating it, I pursued a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Since I began my career as a single teacher in a small school, I also became the Speech Coach, junior high basketball head coach, high school Track and Field Coach, Musical Director, and even worked as a Nebraska State Writing Rater for many years. After teaching there for five years, I found out I was expecting our first child. Since 2012 I've been a stay-at-home mom, homeschooling for the last two years, and working part-time at our local library as the Technology and Cataloguing Librarian. I also spent time working with a local Community College to teach some adult education programs, which I thoroughly enjoyed. My latest endeavor as a Reading Tutor, 5-6 grade Bible Study Teacher and homeschool mom have been my greatest joy yet; inspiring the next generation of readers - that is my calling. To learn more about me visit my website: www.rafikeystosuccess.com
Demonstrator and Facilitator (Varies based on particular class and skill being taught.)
I'll just list my favorites: Kimball Public Schools New Staff Outstanding Performance (2007-2008) and Middle Park H.S. W.T. Weatherill Citizen Athlete of the Year.
In 2007 I graduated as an English Language Arts Teacher (7-12 Certification), three years later I finished my Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and I'm currently pursuing a degree as a Reading Specialist.
Going to a small NAIA private school opened the doors to participate in a lot of extra curricular such as Intercollegiate Pep and Concert Bands, Intercollegiate Basketball, while also being involved in a sorority. After graduation I took a job in a small town where I became involved in the Kimball Education Association, eventually taking on the role as Vice President (2008-2009). These experiences have given me confidence in a few different areas other than what I've already listed. I love learning how we learn and finding many ways to implement all our Learning Styles into my lessons, which is why I love the 4MAT lesson plan development. Sometimes I like to think of myself as Tech Savvy as well, but if I'm completely honest, there are other times I'd rather chuck it out the window. And a little unrelated, I got my creative/artsy thumb from my very talented mother who only gave me a pinky of her talent.
Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, Higher Education, Adult Education, Homeschool, Staff, Not Grade Specific
English Language Arts, Creative Writing, Reading, Grammar, Spelling, Vocabulary, Specialty, Math, Geometry, Measurement, Other (Math), Science, Earth Sciences, Social Studies - History, U.S. History, Curriculum & Instruction, Other (Social Studies - History), Other (ELA), Life Skills, For All Subject Areas, Literature, Word Problems, Problem Solving, Employment, Writing, Writing, Reading Strategies, Writing-Essays, Holidays/Seasonal, Back to School, Halloween, For All Subjects, Informational Text, Handwriting, Phonics, Close Reading, Classroom Community