Zhara Fernandez

I am an experienced English instructor with a strong passion for teaching and a commitment to fostering a love of language and literature in students. With a solid background in English education, I have developed and delivered engaging, student-centered lessons tailored to diverse learning needs. My teaching approach emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and cultural awareness, aiming to prepare students for academic and professional success.

My experience includes:

• Designing and implementing English language and literature curricula for a variety of levels, from foundational courses to advanced studies.
• Employing innovative teaching methods, including technology integration, to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
• Supporting students in developing their writing, reading, and analytical skills, fostering both creativity and precision.

In addition to teaching, I bring expertise in curriculum development, assessment design, and academic advising. My enthusiasm for collaboration and continuous learning ensures that I remain responsive to evolving educational standards and student needs. My ultimate goal is to inspire students to appreciate the transformative power of language and literature while equipping them with the skills necessary for their futures.

With over 7 years of teaching experience across the U.S. and internationally, I specialize in English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, multilingual program coordination, and curriculum development. I have demonstrated success in elevating academic outcomes for English Language Learners (ELLs), including students with disabilities, by integrating innovative teaching methods and data-driven strategies.

Highlights of My Experience:

• Classroom Success: Increased NYSESLAT exam scores by 15% and enhanced student engagement by 20% through interactive and technology-integrated teaching.
• Curriculum Innovation: Developed multilingual curricula and assessment strategies that boosted student outcomes by 40%.
• Higher Education Expertise: Taught TESOL/English courses to over 150 students per semester at the collegiate level, achieving 90%+ student satisfaction scores.
• Leadership & Coordination: Managed language resources, led professional development for educators, and implemented testing accommodations for K-12 students to ensure equity.
• Community Engagement: Partnered with local organizations to provide support services for under-resourced communities, fostering holistic language development.

Skills & Certifications:

• Strong in curriculum design, assessment, and program management.
• Proficient in Spanish and adept at supporting diverse linguistic and cultural needs.
• Certified K-12 and ESOL teacher with licenses in Tennessee and New York.
• Advanced technology and data analysis skills, including SQL, Tableau, and Blackboard.

Career Aspiration:

I am eager to bring my expertise to roles where I can empower students and educators, improve language programs, and drive academic excellence in diverse communities.

TESOL/Linguistics, M.A.
CUNY Hunter College | 2016 – 2018
Focused on teaching English to speakers of other languages, linguistics, curriculum development, and language assessment.

Sociology, B.A.
CUNY John Jay College | Graduated 2016
Studied cultural diversity and social dynamics, enhancing my ability to support multilingual and under-resourced communities.

Cybersecurity Certification
University of Tennessee | 2023
Advanced technology and data analysis skills to improve educational program management.

Teaching Certifications:

Professional K-12 Teaching Certification
Tennessee Department of Education | Active until August 2028

ESOL Professional Teaching Certification
New York State Department of Education | Permanent Certification, Issued July 2022