KRYSTYNA M. HOLDER
Berkeley
Summary
Creative and experienced educator with over 15 years of international teaching experience across the United Kingdom and the United States. Skilled in curriculum design, discussion-based learning, and differentiated instruction, with a strong foundation in literacy and interdisciplinary teaching. Committed to fostering intellectual curiosity, independence, and a love of learning through engaging, student-centered classrooms. Experienced in both general and special education settings and in supporting collaborative, reflective school communities.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
6th Grade Teacher
School of the Madeleine
03.2021 - Current
- Design and implement interdisciplinary curricula in English Language Arts and social studies, integrating writing, reading, and global perspectives.
- Foster discussion-based learning environments that promote critical thinking, student voice, and intellectual curiosity.
- Assess student work and provide detailed, constructive feedback to support growth and independence.
- Develop individualized learning plans to support diverse learners.
- Create a structured, engaging classroom culture that balances academic rigor with creativity and exploration.
Care Line Counselor
San Francisco Crisis Care Line
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Provided confidential emotional support and crisis listening services.
Volunteer Tutor (ESL)
Step Up Tutoring
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Delivered bi-weekly tutoring sessions focused on reading, phonics, and language development.
Long-Term Substitute Teacher
ANZUK Teaching Agency
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Delivered instruction across K–6 classrooms in diverse school settings.
- Adapted quickly to new environments, maintaining continuity, structure, and student engagement.
- Designed engaging lessons using limited resources while supporting varied learning needs.
Classroom Teacher (Special Education)
Grove Park Special Needs Elementary School
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Designed and delivered individualized, student-centered lessons for learners with diverse needs.
- Implemented communication tools including PECS and Makaton.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to support student development.
- Monitored progress through ongoing assessment and adaptive planning.
Classroom Teacher & Lead Teacher
Forest Row Elementary School
01.2014 - 01.2018
- Served as a lead teacher, mentoring colleagues and supporting curriculum development across the school.
- Led subject areas including English, computing, and art, supporting colleagues in delivering engaging and effective instruction.
- Facilitated professional development and contributed to a collaborative teaching culture.
- Designed and delivered differentiated, inquiry-driven lessons for mixed-ability classrooms.
Teacher Trainee
Ilford & Kingston Primary Schools
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Completed teacher training in an OFSTED-rated Outstanding school.
- Delivered engaging lessons and used formative assessment to guide instruction.
Associate Teacher
Grove Park Primary School
01.2009 - 01.2013
- Provided one-on-one support for a student with autism spectrum disorder and complex learning needs.
- Supported classroom instruction and behavior management.
Accounts Coordinator and Manager
Lamina Keyboards
01.2003 - 01.2008
Education
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - UK Teaching Credential (Equivalent to U.S. Teaching License)
East Sussex County Council
East Sussex2014
TESOL -
TESOL - TEFL
London 2016
BA (Hons) - History
University of Reading
United KingdomTESOL Certification - undefined
Skills
- Literacy and Writing Instruction
- Discussion-Based and Inquiry-Driven Learning
- Curriculum Design and Interdisciplinary Teaching
- Differentiated Instruction
- Special Education (SEND)
- Student Assessment and Data-Informed Instruction
- Classroom Culture and Behavior Management
- Teacher Mentorship and Collaboration
- Parent and Community Communication
Accomplishments
- Designed and implemented interdisciplinary curricula in English Language Arts and social studies, emphasizing critical thinking, discussion, and student inquiry.
- Served as a lead teacher and mentor, supporting colleagues in curriculum design and instructional practice across multiple subject areas.
- Developed and implemented individualized learning plans for diverse learners, including students with special educational needs.
- Facilitated professional development and contributed to a collaborative, reflective teaching culture.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Autism Awareness Training
- Social Stories Training
- Intensive Interaction Training
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder Coursework
Timeline
6th Grade Teacher
School of the Madeleine
03.2021 - Current
Care Line Counselor
San Francisco Crisis Care Line
01.2020 - 01.2021
Volunteer Tutor (ESL)
Step Up Tutoring
01.2020 - 01.2021
Long-Term Substitute Teacher
ANZUK Teaching Agency
01.2019 - 01.2020
Classroom Teacher (Special Education)
Grove Park Special Needs Elementary School
01.2018 - 01.2019
Classroom Teacher & Lead Teacher
Forest Row Elementary School
01.2014 - 01.2018
Teacher Trainee
Ilford & Kingston Primary Schools
01.2013 - 01.2014
Associate Teacher
Grove Park Primary School
01.2009 - 01.2013
Accounts Coordinator and Manager
Lamina Keyboards
01.2003 - 01.2008
BA (Hons) - History
University of Reading
TESOL Certification - undefined
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - UK Teaching Credential (Equivalent to U.S. Teaching License)
East Sussex County Council
TESOL -
TESOL - TEFL