Derek Clifford

Dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience in teaching and student guidance. Proven ability to mentor and develop students, evidenced by tripling debate program enrollment and receiving "Teacher of the Month" twice. Skilled in student assessment, public speaking, and strong communication, with a Master's degree in Special Education.

Eager to leverage expertise in student success and program development to support undergraduate advising initiatives at California State University, Long Beach.

World and US History Instructor at Hillcrest High School (2017-08 – 2018-08)

• Educated over 200 9th and 11th grade high school students in World and US History.

Theater and Speech Communications Instructor at Highland High School (2013-08 – 2015-08)

• Instructed courses covering Stage Craft, Acting, and Speech Communications.
• Orchestrated 6 distinct stage productions, with "Prometheus Bound" earning a Best Supporting Actor award and recognition as one of the top three productions at the Idaho State University One Act Festival.

Graduate Teaching Assistant at University of Idaho (2012-08 – 2013-05)

• Delivered instruction for 5 sections of Communication 101 at the University of Idaho.

Debate, Drama, Speech, and Film Instructor at Idaho Falls High School (2005-08 – 2012-08)

• Guided students to district and state-level placements as Debate Coach.
• Expanded the Debate Program's enrollment threefold.
• Facilitated the Drama Program's performance of challenging classical works, including plays by Ibsen and Shakespeare.
• Produced the regional premiere of "The Wedding Singer the Musical" within the state of Idaho.
• Directed a school district-wide musical production engaging performers from elementary, junior high, and high school levels.
• Received the "Teacher of the Month" award on two occasions.

Master's in Special Education – University of Idaho

B.S. in Theater Education with a History Minor – Southern Utah University

Associates in General Studies – BYU-Idaho