Alicia Zoe Halpin Ortiz

aliciazhortiz@gmail.com • (917) 499 1591

EDUCATION

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, Philadelphia, PA May 2019

Master of Science in Education

Lafayette College, Easton, PA May 2016

Bachelor of Science, Biology; Minor, Psychology

EXPERIENCE

Community Engagement Educator - Philadelphia Zoo August 2019 - Present

• Collaborate with community members in order to plan, develop, and execute science-related programs in
the West Philadelphia neighborhood, including frequent visits to various classes in a nearby elementary
school and sessions at the local library.
• Responsible for scheduling, providing, and evaluating virtual programs that have reached over 2500
students in the Philadelphia region.
• Design curriculum and inquiry-based materials in a multi-media format to supplement virtual learning.
• Previously responsible for managing and maintaining operations within the zoo’s Vertical Farm, that uses
a hydroponics system to sustainably grow vegetation to be distributed to various zoo animals.
• Assist in daily zoo activities with the public, including onsite interpretation and volunteer coordination.

Conservation Educator - Philadelphia Zoo September 2016 - August 2019

• Interpreted daily activities that take place in the zoo and advocated for conservation awareness through
formal presentations and informal conversations.
• Attentively managed live animal areas, facilitating positive guest experiences and animal wellbeing.

Teacher Resident - School District of Philadelphia August 2018 - June 2019

• Placed in three K-8 schools in different Philadelphia neighborhoods throughout the year.
• Directed whole group instruction, facilitated small group lessons, and engaged independent learners.
• Collaborated with classroom teachers to create an enriching and opportunity-filled classroom community.
• Worked to build rapport and positive relationships with students in order to adapt teaching methods to meet
individual and group strengths, as well as areas of growth.

Crew Leader - New York City Urban Tree House May 2018 - July 2018
• Organized logistics for a new program overseen by the Student Conservation Association.
• Researched summer groups throughout New York City to participate in programs and managed outreach
to invite 186 youth groups to participate in programs.
• Developed environmental education curriculum for K-12 urban youth, providing students an opportunity
to explore nature and find ways to reconnect with the environment.

Environmental Educator - NYS Department of Environmental Conservation January 2017 - December 2017
• As an AmeriCorps and Student Conservation Association educator, responsible for designing, leading, and
revising environmental and science lessons plans to use for over 750 students in in after-school and summer
camp programs throughout New York City.
• Facilitated professional development workshops created by Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, and
Project WET, demonstrating lesson plans and ideas to over 100 teachers.
• Enhanced problem solving skills while modifying and adapting lessons to different age groups in different
space availabilities, including inside a classroom, in a gym, and outdoors in a park.