Karen Stiff

Karenkstiff@gmail.com | 757-714-2962

Statement of Qualification
Experienced educator who uses data-driven, student-centered instruction to promote
literacy. Competent in structured literacy instructional strategies with a knack for
collaboration and communication. Takes a systematic and explicit approach to reach all
learners. Strengths in emergent and beginning literacy.

Education
Endorsement in Reading, Literacy, & Learning
Longwood University, Farmville, VA May 2022

Master of Arts in Elementary Education

Pre-K-6 licensure program
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA May 2009

Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies

Minor: Elementary Education
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA May 2008

Work Experience
Kindergarten Teacher
North Elementary School, Colonial Heights, VA Fall 2017- present
● Delivered core subject instruction in-person and virtually
● Collected data to plan differentiated instruction
● Implemented effective classroom management
● Communicated and collaborated with all stakeholders (parents/staff/community)
● Integrated technology into classroom

Private Tutor
Colonial Heights, VA Fall 2018- Spring 2019
● Delivered reading instruction 1-1
● Hired privately by students’ parents (communicated directly with parents)
● Planned targeted instruction to address reading deficits

Third Grade Teacher

North Elementary School, Colonial Heights, VA Fall 2009-Spring 2017
● Delivered core subject instruction
● Collected data to plan differentiated instruction
● Prepared students for SOL testing
● Implemented effective classroom management
● Communicated and collaborated with all stakeholders (parents/staff/community)
● Integrated technology into classroom
Instructional Lead Teacher 3-5 Reading
North Elementary School, Colonial Heights, VA, 2013-2017
● Provided instructional leadership to other teachers
● Organized staff development
● Reviewed textbooks and instructional materials
● Attended professional development to share with peers
● Served as a liaison between reaching coach and teachers
● Disaggregated data to identify trends and needs

After School Remediation Teacher

North Elementary School, Colonial Heights, VA Fall 2009-Spring 2018
● Delivered remedial instruction in third grade Math and Reading
● Aligned teaching to Virginia Standards of Learning
● Used data to determine eligible students
● Taught in small group setting: intervention for struggling students

SOL Prep Instructor

North Elementary School, Colonial Heights, VA Fall 2009- Spring 2018
● Delivered targeted instruction to prepare students for SOL testing
● Integrated technology to prepare students for online testing

Activities
Summer Camp Counselor Summer 2005-2007
YoungLife Youth Leader 2005-2008

Professional Accomplishment
Co-published research article in VASCD Fall 2019

Skills
Computer: Microsoft Office, Powerpoint, Excel, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Promethean
Board Technology, Twitter, Facebook
Certifications: Emergency First Aid, CPR & AED Training, Child Abuse and
Neglect Recognition and Intervention Training, Dyslexia Awareness Training