Reading Specialist at Oklahoma City Public Schools (2024-01 – Present)
- Plan, assess and provide specialized, evidence-based literacy instruction
- Improve student fluency, comprehension and phonics skills
- Develop personalized reading plans, collaborate with staff
- Work in a Title I school to provide one-on-one/small group intervention
- Focus on supporting student achievement in alignment with Oklahoma's state standards
Adjunct Professor, Sociology at Oklahoma City Community College (2025-01 – Present)
- Teach Principles of Sociology across online, hybrid, Dual Credit and face-to-face formats
- Designed and implemented curriculum aligned with state law and institutional requirements
Adjunct Professor, Sociology at San Jacinto College (2014-01 – 2024-12)
- Taught Principles of Sociology across online, hybrid, Dual Credit and face-to-face formats
- Designed and implemented curriculum aligned with state law and institutional requirements
Adjunct Professor, Sociology & Developmental English at Lone Star College (2013-01 – 2024-12)
- Taught Developmental English and Sociology courses, supporting student achievement and college readiness
- Facilitated student learning through culturally responsive teaching strategies
English Language Arts & Reading Teacher, Grade 6 at Houston Independent School District (Burbank Middle School) (2003-01 – 2013-12)
- Delivered English Language Arts and Reading instruction aligned with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)
- Served as instructional leader fostering literacy growth in diverse middle school classrooms
Graduate Assistant at Texas A&M University (1999-01 – 2001-12)
- Assisted with proposal writing, program evaluation, and academic journal publication
- Supported adult literacy, GED, Head Start, and community-based education programs
- Served as Principal at Brazos Charter School, overseeing curriculum, discipline, and community partnerships while sitting on committees for community empowerment, improvement and accountability
Substitute Teacher / Summer Enrichment Teacher at College Station Independent School District (1999-01 – 2001-12)
- Delivered instruction in grades K–12
- Taught American Sign Language (ASL) to K–7 students for summer enrichment programs
Teacher, Grades 4 & 6 at Houston Independent School District (Thompson Elementary) (1992-01 – 1999-12)
- Taught multiple subjects in upper elementary classrooms
- Awarded 'Most Giving Teacher' three consecutive years by PTO
- Served as Grade Chairperson and supervised Teach for America teacher trainees
Teacher & Curriculum Designer at Montessori School of Downtown (1994-06 – 1996-08)
- Developed enrichment programs, summer school curricula, and student learning plans
- Prepared and trained fall semester new hires and planned curriculum and instruction for upcoming school year
Founder & Business Owner at Golden Shovel Enterprises, Inc. (2001-01 – Present)
- Provide research, evaluation, training, and HR development services via contracts and grants
- Design and deliver learning and diversity programs for schools, nonprofits, and community organizations
- Conduct program assessments and develop improvement strategies
Program Specialist (Contract) at Texas Education Agency (2003-01 – 2003-12)
- Supported school districts with data analysis and Corrective Action Plans for Safe Schools initiatives
Program Specialist (Contract) at Austin Eastside Story Foundation (2002-01 – 2002-12)
- Managed budget and programming for 21st Century Grant-funded summer and afterschool programs
- Designed pre/post tests for K–7 programs and trained parents in community engagement
Motivational Speaker/Program Development (Contract) at Internal Revenue Service (2006-01 – 2006-12)
- Designed and delivered speech to I.R.S. employees to inspire, overcome adversity and stress during tax season boosting morale on the Houston site
- Implemented follow-up feedback with data collected from interval surveys and questionnaires created at beginning of program
Legislative Intern at State Representative Scott Hochberg (TX) (1999-01 – 1999-12)
- Supported the Public Education and Appropriations Committees by preparing legislative packets, researching bills, and managing constituent communications
Intake & Referral Specialist at Houston Area Urban League, Inc. (1990-01 – 1992-12)
- Assisted job seekers with training, placement, and career readiness
- Organized youth career development programs, including resume writing and professional skills
- Supervised youth during summer youth workforce programs working with the elderly
