Kirstin Bardoff-Brzezinski
Bear
Summary
Seasoned teacher with a deep understanding of subject matter, lesson planning, behavioral management, appropriate curriculum materials, and educational technology integration.
Demonstrated ability to develop and differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning styles and needs of multiple students. Strong communicator with the ability to foster meaningful relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
Professional background and personal history of dedication to creating engaging learning environments which instill enthusiasm for learning while promoting positive and successful student outcomes. Attentive and adaptable to the needs and learning styles of students. The ability to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of individual students' learning abilities, and to adjust teaching strategies and educational plans for long-term student success.
Experienced educator committed to promoting safe learning environments for all. Detail-oriented, and compassionate, with extensive knowledge in various subject areas.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Homeschool Mother/Teacher For My Seven Children
Myself
Baltimore
09.1995 - 08.2023
- Planned field trips to enrich students' educational experiences outside of the traditional classroom setting.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on curriculum objectives.
- Maintained a safe and orderly learning environment for all students.
- Created meaningful projects that allowed students to apply their knowledge in real world situations.
- Encouraged critical thinking skills and problem solving strategies among students.
- Instructed students in academic subjects such as math, science, language arts, social studies, and history.
- Provided individualized instruction to meet the needs of all students.
- Prepared and maintained classroom environments appropriate for student learning and physical, social and emotional development.
- Created lesson plans and chose supporting materials to promote positive learning experiences.
- Used videos, lectures and moderated discussions to engage students during class.
- Conquered challenges of working with highly diverse student population to attain exceptional student achievement.
- Remained calm and patient in student interactions to support individual growth and development.
- Introduced and encouraged debate-style classroom setting to increase student active participation and critical thinking.
- Engaged students through lecture and discussion, increasing classroom interaction to build inclusive learning environment.
- Participated in workshops, trainings and conferences to improve educational skills.
- Planned and implemented lessons using various teaching strategies to meet diverse student needs.
- Utilized technology-based learning tools to enhance classroom instruction.
- Collaborated with colleagues to plan lessons that integrate various subject areas into a cohesive unit of study.
- Supervised after school activities such as clubs or sports teams.
- Created and enforced child-based, hands-on curriculum to promote student interest and receptive learning.
- Identified and documented learning achievements by reporting outcomes, performance information and program adjustments used to boost comprehension.
- Prepared and graded subject tests for students.
- Tested students' comprehension of subject matter through quizzes, tests and projects.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to maintain classroom discipline.
Overnight Stock Team Member
Target
Baltimore
11.2012 - 06.2014
- Adhered to all company policies and procedures relating to health and safety regulations.
- Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to safety policies and procedures.
- Replenished merchandise levels throughout the night as needed.
- Faced product on shelves to ensure full shelves for customers.
- Assisted customers with locating items and answering product questions.
- Informed management of inventory discrepancies or customer requests and concerns.
- Operated pallet jacks, forklifts, and other equipment safely while stocking or retrieving items from warehouse areas.
- Participated in team meetings regarding store operations and merchandising techniques.
- Assisted with unloading containers using hand tools such as screwdrivers, hammers.
- Set up promotional displays in store windows, end caps, gondolas.
- Unloaded trucks and checked in merchandise.
- Checked expiration dates on products and removed expired items from the shelf.
- Reported any observed safety hazards or maintenance issues immediately.
- Gathered assigned merchandise and transported to store floor locations using hand trucks.
- Picked up boxes and related trash from sales floor.
- Reset merchandise throughout assigned section to give shelves and racks professional appeal.
- Removed product from boxes and placed on shelves according to merchandising guidelines.
- Checked shelves in department to determine replenishment needs.
- Stocked pallets throughout shift to keep warehouse clean, maintained and organized.
- Observed strict safety measures while stocking shelves to prevent falls and mishaps.
- Used proper case cutting techniques to cut and sort stock loads.
- Pulled items from stock using lift equipment and added to shelves or bins.
- Prepared products by adding tags and readying pallets for restocking.
- Identified and quickly handled spill clean-up.
- Assessed floor displays to restock merchandise.
- Followed instructions to properly arrange merchandise items.
- Removed expired and overripe items to provide freshest options and eliminate health risks.
- Updated pricing and sales signs to promote merchandise.
- Checked delivered merchandise and order information to verify shipment accuracy.
- Kept work areas clean, neat and organized for optimal productivity and worker safety.
- Read orders to obtain item numbers and located merchandise in bins or on shelves.
- Inspected merchandise for wear or defects, disposing of damaged items as instructed by supervisors.
- Compared merchandise invoices to items actually received.
- Stocked shelves, racks, and bins with new or transferred merchandise.
- Stamped price tags on merchandise, referring to official price lists.
- Set up advertising signs on shelves and counters to attract customers and promote sales.
- Operated forklift and pallet jack to transport heavy loads.
- Received and counted stock items, recording data manually or on computer for inventory purposes.
- Packed and unpacked items, checking breakables before stocking on shelves.
- Demonstrated great teamwork skills with staff members involved in production and transport.
Licensed Home Child Care Provider
Baltimore County Department of Child Services
Baltimore
05.1994 - 09.1997
- Encouraged positive interactions between children by providing supervision at all times.
- Engaged in creative play activities that promoted language development, physical activity and problem solving skills.
- Assisted with feeding infants and toddlers during meal times.
- Maintained a clean and organized play area.
- Taught basic skills such as personal hygiene, social manners and appropriate behavior.
- Read books aloud to small groups or individual children.
- Developed positive relationships with families by communicating regularly about their child's development.
- Provided a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow.
- Organized age-appropriate activities such as games, arts and crafts and outdoor play.
- Assisted children in development of social, communication and problem-solving skills.
- Secured indoor and outdoor premises to protect children.
- Used positive reinforcement and behavior modeling to instill discipline in children.
- Maintained daily records of activities, behaviors, meals, and naps.
- Supported children's emotional and social development, encouraging understanding of others and positive self-concepts.
- Prepared meals, snacks and refreshments for children according to dietary needs and restrictions.
- Instructed children on good sanitary habits when washing hands, using bathroom or eating.
- Planned and implemented engaging activities to encourage creativity and expression.
- Provided nurturing and appropriate environment for children of various ages.
- Maintained organized and clean classroom and play areas.
- Communicated with parents or guardians about daily activities, behaviors and upcoming events.
- Dressed children and changed diapers.
- Kept records of daily observations and information about activities, meals served and medications administered.
Early Childhood and Elementary Teacher
White Marsh Child Care
Baltimore
03.1994 - 09.1995
- Facilitated positive interactions between children by modeling appropriate behavior.
- Assessed children's abilities, strengths, interests and needs through observations.
- Engaged with parents and guardians regularly to discuss their child's progress.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior.
- Provided developmentally appropriate activities to enhance children's physical, cognitive, social and emotional growth.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans that incorporated play-based learning experiences.
- Organized field trips and special events to promote learning outside of the classroom setting.
- Implemented behavior management techniques to ensure a safe environment for all students.
- Participated in monthly meetings with administrators to assess program effectiveness.
- Supervised students during lunchtime, playtime and other recreational activities.
- Created an atmosphere conducive to learning through stimulating materials and resources.
- Established a safe, healthy and nurturing environment for the children in my care.
- Organized and led activities to promote physical, mental and social development.
- Controlled classroom environments with clearly outlined rules and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Taught children foundational skills in colors, shapes and letters.
- Enhanced sensory abilities by giving children access to numerous textures and shapes.
- Implemented hands-on, play-based strategies for experiential learning.
- Openly exchanged ideas and materials with coworkers.
- Created and implemented developmentally appropriate curriculum addressing learning styles.
- Incorporated music, art and theater into lesson planning.
- Directed and supervised children during field trips and special activities.
- Encouraged children to be understanding of others, show good manners and instructed in other social development behaviors.
- Adapted instructional techniques according to student learning styles and progress.
- Collaborated with colleagues on developing new classroom projects and monthly themes.
- Observed children for signs of illness, injury, emotional disturbance, learning disorders, and speech problems.
- Communicated with parents regularly to maintain student progress, schedule meetings, and increase overall student happiness.
- Read stories to children and taught painting, drawing, and crafts.
- Implemented behavior modeling and positive reinforcement into daily routines.
- Instructed and assisted children in eating, toileting, and resting to help develop healthy personal habits.
- Planned and implemented lessons using various teaching strategies to meet diverse student needs.
- Created and enforced child-based, hands-on curriculum to promote student interest and receptive learning.
- Observed children to record development.
- Built and strengthened positive relationships with students, parents, and teaching staff.
- Monitored student progress to ensure cooperation and growth.
- Removed hazards and developed appropriate boundaries and rules to create safe environment for children.
- Engaged with children on individual basis to build positive, trusting relationships.
- Organized creative and fun activities, enhancing children's physical, emotional and social well-being.
Elementary Substitute Teacher
Baltimore County Public School System
Baltimore
01.1994 - 09.1995
- Utilized various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, audio-visual aids, and hands-on activities to facilitate learning.
- Assisted with organizing field trips or other special school activities when necessary.
- Encouraged student participation and engagement in learning activities.
- Responded to inquiries from parents regarding their child's progress.
- Provided instruction and guidance to students in the absence of the regular teacher.
- Kept accurate records of attendance and grades for absent students' work assignments.
- Participated in faculty meetings or professional development workshops as required.
- Implemented positive reinforcement strategies such as rewards or praise for good behavior.
- Researched new instructional techniques that could be used in the classroom.
- Maintained a safe, orderly classroom environment by enforcing school rules and regulations.
- Implemented classroom rules to maintain order and discipline.
- Implemented lesson plans assigned by classroom teacher to educate students about key concepts.
- Engaged students in discussions to promote interest and drive learning.
- Implemented conflict resolution strategies to manage student disputes.
- Managed classroom environments to ensure a safe and productive learning experience.
- Utilized educational technology to enhance learning experiences.
- Prepared and delivered instructional materials suited to varied learning levels.
- Provided classroom instruction following regular teacher's lesson plans.
- Facilitated discussions to encourage critical thinking and student engagement.
- Addressed individual student needs and accommodated learning differences.
- Educated students in various subjects to provide seamless transition during absence of head teacher.
- Encouraged student participation and active learning in the classroom.
- Communicated effectively with parents about student progress and concerns.
- Established and enforced rules for behavior and procedures to maintain order among students.
- Fostered a positive learning environment that promoted mutual respect.
- Enforced classroom routines to keep students on schedule and operating at consistent level.
- Provided notes and reports on school day activities to primary teacher.
- Integrated real-world examples to make learning relevant and engaging.
- Utilized positive reinforcement to motivate students.
- Requested as substitute teacher based on excellent referrals and trusted performance.
- Remained up-to-date with emergency procedures to keep students and staff safe in emergency events.
- Organized classroom activities, games and tasks to enhance interactive learning experience.
- Answered student questions about course concepts.
- Led or moderated classroom discussions and guided exploratory thought.
- Addressed rowdy and uncooperative students by speaking firmly and informing head teacher of transgressions.
- Distributed worksheets and homework assignments from head teacher to assist with classroom operations.
- Communicated with head teacher to execute priorities for school day and ongoing lesson plans.
- Explained assignments and relayed information from lead teacher.
- Maintained classroom order and enforced school and class rules.
- Graded tests and assignments using head teacher's grading guidelines.
- Followed established lesson plans to continue learning trajectory.
- Helped head teacher by restocking missing or low supplies in classroom.
- Supervised students during recess, break times and dismissal periods to prevent injuries and fights.
- Took attendance and maintained attendance records during period as substitute.
- Left notes for head teacher about notable students, events and problems.
Weekend Shopkeeper/Key Cutter/Cashier
Kwik Key Locksmiths
Baltimore
06.1987 - 02.1994
- Greeted customers upon arrival and provided assistance with selecting products.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the store, including stocking shelves and organizing displays.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally.
- Organized staff schedules according to business demands.
- Created price tags for items in accordance with company guidelines.
- Used excellent verbal skills to engage customers in conversation and effectively determine needs and requirements.
- Cleaned work area regularly to maintain a safe working environment.
- Ensured all safety procedures were followed while operating machinery.
- Inspected finished products for quality assurance and accuracy.
- Followed detailed instructions from supervisors regarding tasks and duties.
- Managed cutting machine to complete work.
- Used hand, power, and pneumatic tools to efficiently and accurately complete projects.
- Cut, contoured and beveled metal and structural shapes to achieve accurate dimensions.
- Detected faulty operation of equipment or defective materials and notified supervisors.
- Organized promotional displays or arrange merchandise on counters or tables to promote sales.
- Greeted customers and answered any questions they had about the store's products and services.
- Performed other duties as assigned by management.
- Issued receipts, refunds, credits or change due to customers.
- Assisted customers over the phone regarding store operations, product information and order placement.
- Operated cash register efficiently and accurately, processed payments by cash, check, credit card, gift card or automatic debit.
- Maintained cleanliness of checkout area including countertops, registers, windowsills and floors.
- Processed returns and exchanges of merchandise in accordance with store policies.
- Ensured compliance with all safety regulations within the store environment.
- Accepted cash and credit card payments, issued receipts and provided change.
- Processed credit card, cash, and check payments, ensuring all transactions were accurate.
- Answered customer questions and provided store information.
- Maintained work area and kept cash drawer organized.
- Answered phone calls to assist customers with questions and orders.
- Kept check-out areas clean, organized and well-stocked to maintain attractive store.
Teacher's Aide and Assistant
Discovery Days Child Care Center
Baltimore
09.1986 - 06.1987
- Implemented classroom rules and procedures to maintain discipline and order.
- Created and maintained a safe and engaging learning environment for all students.
- Supported classroom teacher in managing a diverse classroom of students.
- Provided one-on-one support to students requiring additional assistance.
- Contributed to positive, educational setting by delivering gentle discipline and promoting student success.
- Worked one-on-one with special needs students to help navigate through school challenges.
- Provided individualized and small group support to reinforce classroom topics and promote student learning.
- Prepared lesson materials, bulletin board displays, exhibits, and demonstrations to assist teachers in classroom preparation.
- Distributed textbooks, workbooks, papers, and pencils to students.
- Utilized instructional techniques and hands-on curriculum to retain interest and maximize receptive learning in students.
- Monitored student progress and provided feedback to both students and teachers.
- Organized student performance and enrichment activities to facilitate learning.
- Assisted teachers with lesson preparation and curriculum implementation.
- Established positive relationships with students, parents, fellow teachers and school administrators.
- Supervised children and participated with children in activities.
- Facilitated small group learning activities to reinforce lesson objectives.
- Managed the distribution and collection of textbooks and other teaching materials.
- Greeted visitors, clients and guests in a professional manner.
- Handled confidential information with discretion and integrity.
- Maintained positive working relationship with fellow staff and management.
Server
Pizza Hut
Baltimore
04.1986 - 08.1986
- Greeted guests and provided menus.
- Followed health safety guidelines when preparing and serving food products.
- Delivered food orders promptly and courteously.
- Took orders from customers accurately and in a timely manner.
- Cleaned tables and chairs to prepare dining area for next customers.
- Checked with customers to determine satisfaction with meals, promptly taking action to correct problems.
- Addressed complaints to kitchen staff and served replacement items.
- Collected dirty dishes and glasses from tables or counters, preparing areas for next diners.
- Assisted in preparing salads, appetizers and desserts to speed up food service.
- Stocked service areas with supplies during slow periods.
Ladies Merchandising Associate and Cashier
K-Mart Department Stores
Baltimore
09.1985 - 04.1986
- Welcomed customers, offering assistance to help find store items.
- Counted and balanced cashier drawers.
- Maintained work area and kept cash drawer organized.
- Processed customer payments quickly and returned exact change and receipts.
- Answered customer questions and provided store information.
- Stocked shelves with merchandise when needed.
- Assisted in gathering and moving materials and equipment for assigned displays.
- Organized product displays in an attractive manner to maximize sales potential.
- Maintained cleanliness of store fixtures, shelves, racks. on a daily basis.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Towson State University
Baltimore, MD01-1994
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Essex Community College - CCBC
Baltimore, MD06-1991
GED -
Overlea Senior High School
Baltimore, MD12-1987
Skills
- Compliance with Maryland State Homeschool Laws
- Learning style assessment
- Curriculum development
- Innovative lesson planning
- Alternative learning methods
- Group and individual instruction
- Engagement strategies
- Clear public speaking skills
- Behavior management
- Team building
- Creative problem solving
- Critical thinking
- Effective listening
- Growth mindset
- Flexible and adaptive
Languages
English
Professional
Timeline
Overnight Stock Team Member
Target
11.2012 - 06.2014
Homeschool Mother/Teacher For My Seven Children
Myself
09.1995 - 08.2023
Licensed Home Child Care Provider
Baltimore County Department of Child Services
05.1994 - 09.1997
Early Childhood and Elementary Teacher
White Marsh Child Care
03.1994 - 09.1995
Elementary Substitute Teacher
Baltimore County Public School System
01.1994 - 09.1995
Weekend Shopkeeper/Key Cutter/Cashier
Kwik Key Locksmiths
06.1987 - 02.1994
Teacher's Aide and Assistant
Discovery Days Child Care Center
09.1986 - 06.1987
Server
Pizza Hut
04.1986 - 08.1986
Ladies Merchandising Associate and Cashier
K-Mart Department Stores
09.1985 - 04.1986
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Towson State University
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Essex Community College - CCBC
GED -
Overlea Senior High School