Kimberly Griffin
Calabasas
Summary
Dynamic 5th Grade Teacher at SMMUSD, skilled in fostering student engagement and cultural sensitivity. Successfully designed inquiry-based lessons that enhanced critical thinking and creativity. Championed inclusive practices for special needs support, while mentoring students in leadership roles, resulting in a vibrant classroom community focused on collaboration and social-emotional growth.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
5th Grade Teacher
SMMUSD
08.2000 - Current
- Design and implement engaging, standards-based lessons in all core subject areas (ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies), aligned with California Common Core and IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework.
- Foster a supportive and inclusive classroom community emphasizing collaboration, empathy, and social-emotional growth.
- Integrate inquiry-based and project-based learning to develop critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving skills.
- Utilize data-driven instruction and formative assessments to monitor student progress and differentiate instruction for diverse learning needs.
- Collaborate with grade-level and specialist teams to plan interdisciplinary units and coordinate schoolwide events.
- Communicate regularly with parents and caregivers through newsletters, conferences, and digital platforms to ensure transparency and partnership.
- Mentor students in leadership roles through Student Council and service-learning projects.
- Implement classroom management strategies rooted in positive reinforcement and restorative practices.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communication/Education
Suny Potsdam
Potsdam, NY06-1995
Skills
- Cultural sensitivity
- Student engagement
- Special needs support
- Multimedia instruction
Timeline
5th Grade Teacher
SMMUSD
08.2000 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Communication/Education
Suny Potsdam