Raquel Simbala

As a previous educator and entrepreneur, my passion revolves around equity, opportunity, growth. My years of experience in the classroom have honed skills in leadership, organization, communication, problem-solving, and creativity, which extend to my entrepreneurial ventures and contribute to my holistic approach to life and work.

In my role as a Spanish teacher, I focused on developing content that was adaptable and inclusive for diverse learning styles. I was recognized for spearheading innovative ideas, managing multiple projects effectively, and leveraging growth through data analysis. I bring the same level of energy, creativity, and commitment to whatever I do.

While education was my primary focus, I understand the power of transferable skills and have expanded my horizons to use and grow my skills in a different setting. By intertwining my thought leadership, innovative ideas and solutions, ability to manage multiple projects in a fast paced environment, and ability to solve complex problems and make thoughtful decisions, I am an asset to any work environment. 

I continuously lead with empathy and compassion, build strong relationships and adapt to complex challenges in dynamic environments. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I am well-equipped to cater to diverse audiences. 

Breath of God, Baltimore, Maryand — Site Supervisor
Develop and design content and curriculum that equitably enriches individuals of different ages and diverse learning styles. Cultivating and creating an accessible and meaningful learning experience for individuals from low SES to expand on their social, emotional and intellectual skills. Leveraging inclusion and equitable leadership practices to prepare, develop and engage staff to facilitate an enriching environment.

• Consistently lead with inclusion, equity, compassion and thought leadership expanding on and supporting staff member’s strengths to develop their leadership skills.
• Cultivate and foster rapport with external organizations for funding.
• Facilitated learning experiences for staff through professional development opportunities to help them acquire necessary knowledge and skills for success.
• Structured and implemented frameworks that optimized staff information processing, scheduling, and curriculum logistics
• Leverage a deep understanding of culturally inclusive principles to build rapport with staff and students to create an equitable and inclusive culture.
• Contributed in overseeing and managing budgetary responsibilities

Baltimore County Public Schools, Woodlawn High School — Spanish Teacher
2016 - 2024
Develop Spanish language content and curriculum that is adaptable and equitable for diverse learning styles and abilities. Observing, ideating, and co- creating a learning experience with students. Leveraging mindfulness and restorative practices to engage students and facilitate a collaborative learning environment.

• Explored new approaches through the use of technology and learning stations, co-creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment for diverse needs.
• Highlighted by BCPS TV for a segment on engaging practices in the World Language classroom.
• Consistently lead with empathy and compassion to effectively coach, mentor, and develop student strengths.
• Leverage a deep understanding of culturally inclusive learning design principles to build rapport with students and design curriculum that is accessible to diverse needs.

Master of Arts in Teaching- World Languages; Goucher College 

Bachelor’s Degree- Integrative Studies; George Mason University