Maria Kioussis

Professional info

 

I am a teacher and learner dedicated to empowering students through education. I am looking to work in an environment that fosters the development of students and staff to be critical thinkers in their contributions as community members and global citizens. 

Teaching and Field Experiences

 

Student Teacher. Beal City High School, MI. (English 9, 10, 11, and Communications).

Jan. 2015-May 2015

 

• Designed and implemented original lessons and units to engage students while gaining the required skills according to the Common Core State Standards.

• Collaborated with host teacher to improve my practices and reflect on experiences.

• Conducted individual writing conferences for research-based persuasive essay at various points in the writing process to provide differentiated support.

• Facilitated a project-based learning service project with communication students that benefitted Special Olympics Michigan and offered reality-based communication practice.

• Developed an out-of-class relationship with students and the community through directing, volunteering, and attending local events. 

 

Pre-Student Teacher. Beal City High School, MI. (English 9).

Sept. 2014-Dec. 2014

 

• Completed over thirty hours of field experience in two English 9 classrooms.

• Designed an introductory writing prompt to learn about students and their writing.

• Taught four classroom lessons, including interdisciplinary and technology-related topics.

• Scaffolded a multi-genre writing project to give students experience with research and real-world writing genres.

• Attended extracurricular events, such as sporting events and talent show rehearsals.

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English as a Foreign Language Teacher. Casa Hogar, Mexico. (Middle School).

May 2014

 

• Assessed and evaluated students’ English proficiency in order to devise a three-week curriculum best suited for students’ needs as part of a study abroad program.

• Crafted lessons and supplementary material to have a sustainable impact on student learning.

• Planned activities using limited resources to develop students’ reading and speaking skills.

• Cooperated with a host teacher and two co-teachers to design engaging lessons and activities.

• Developed lasting relationships with both students and staff through mutual trust and respect

 

Intro to Communication Intern. Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant. (COM 101).

May 2014

 

• Assisted in the teaching of CMU’s Introduction to Communication course; with a focus on narrative, informative, and argumentative speeches.

• Facilitated post-activity discussions to develop student skills in analysis and reflection.

• Responded to student speeches with written feedback to praise and encourage improvement.

• Provided out-of-class study sessions and speech coaching to support student work.

• Taught two full class periods to gain experience designing and facilitating lessons. 

 

Karate Teacher. Azatos Academy of Martial Arts, Schererville, IN. 

May 2014

 

• Adapted instruction to meet the individual needs of students between the ages of 4 and 67 to teach proper karate and self-defense techniques.

• Instructed self-defense clinics to raise money and awareness for domestic violence charities.

• Managed class time in order to work on a variety of skills.

 

 

Teaching-related Experiences

 

Writing Center Consultant. Central Michigan University.  

Aug. 2012-May 2015

 

• Collaborated with fellow consultants and student-writers to improve writing skills through face-to-face and online consulting; worked 15-20 hours per week.

• Communicated knowledge of the writing process using visual, oral, and written techniques that are accessible to different learners.

• Used culturally conscious techniques to help non-native speakers with their writing goals.

• Facilitated writing and research workshops with both graduate and undergraduate classes to encourage writing across the curriculum.

• Presented at state and regional conference to build a professional network and continue improving my skills. 

 

Honors Program Mentor. Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant.  

Jan. 2014-May 2014

 

• Conferenced and advised seven CMU Honors Program freshmen during their first semester.

• Facilitated out-of-class activities meant to increase students’ learning by taking them out of their comfort zone.

• Moderated small group discussions to help students reflect upon class experiences.

• Collaborated with Honors Program staff to constantly improve student experiences. 

 

Academic Assistance Tutor. Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant.  

Jan. 2014-May 2014

 

• Provided supplemental instruction to students struggling in Logic and Linguistics courses; worked 5 hours per week.

• Maintained a working knowledge of past course material and subject-matter proficiency.

• Conducted one-on-one sessions to help students achieve their academic goals.

 

 

Assistant Editor. Ashgate Publishing, Online.  

May 2012-Jul. 2012

 

• Edited works cited lists for correct Chicago style formatting to assure professional publication and avoid copyright infringement; worked 30 hours.

• Completed work in a timely manner to avoid delay in publication. 

 

 

Community Outreach

 

Make-a-Wish Illinois Volunteer.  

2010-Present

 

• Avid supporter and volunteer for the  Make-A-Wish Illinois organization ( Wine for Wishes, Greek Night). 

• Monitor student participation in annual Oak Lawn Hometown Middle School Make-A-Wish walk-a-thon to recognize student achievement and ensure student safety.

• Assist with fundraising efforts by collecting donations and raffle prizes.

 

Honors Outreach Network. Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant.  

Aug. 2012-Jan. 2014

 

• Served as Fundraising Committee Chairperson from May 2013 to January 2014.

• Organized fundraising events to benefit The Community Compassion Network, an organization that fights hunger and homelessness in Isabella County.

• Recruited volunteers to connect campus to the larger Mt. Pleasant community. 

 

Volunteer Assistant Softball Coach. Frankfort Girls Softball, Frankfort, IL.  

Summer 2009-2012

 

• Assisted in skill camps and travel team practices for girls ages four to sixteen to develop fundamental skills needed for continued progress.

• Created age-friendly activities to promote teamwork and personal growth.

• Modeled good sportsmanship to set an example for appropriate player conduct.