Kara Picher
Warrensburg,MO
Summary
Certified K–12 educator with 7+ years of experience in elementary and special education. Skilled in delivering engaging virtual instruction, supporting struggling readers, differentiating lessons, and creating individualized learning plans. Strong background in literacy intervention, writing instruction, and data-driven teaching. Committed to fostering confidence, independence, and a love of reading and writing.
Career Note: From 2020–2025, I lived overseas in England while my husband was stationed with the United States Air Force. During this time, I remained engaged in the field by studying current educational trends, literacy research, and virtual learning practices to stay up-to-date with evolving instructional methods.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Classroom Teacher and Virtual/ Hybrid Teacher
Canyon Ridge School
08.2016 - 01.2020
- 3rd Grade Teacher, Grade Level Lead (2017–2020); SPED Teacher (6–8, 2020)
- Delivered differentiated literacy instruction in both in person and hybrid settings.
- Designed engaging lessons aligned with reading standards, including small-group intervention and targeted phonics/fluency support.
- Used digital tools (Google Classroom, Zoom, Seesaw, Nearpod) to enhance online learning.
- Analyzed student reading data (DIBELS, DRA level, benchmark assessments, etc) to identify needs and create individualized learning supports.
- Fostered a positive, inclusive learning environment for diverse learners.
- Facilitated communication between parents and school regarding student performance.
Personalized Learning Professional Development Instructor
Canyon Ridge School
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Led workshops on personalized learning strategies, equipping educators with tools to create individualized, student-centered learning experiences that aligned with student goals and state standards.
- Trained teachers in utilizing technology and informed data to tailor instruction to diverse student needs and learning styles.
- Guided teachers in developing and implementing effective personalized learning plans aligned with student goals and state standards.
Gifted Teacher Liaison
01.2016 - 01.2020
- Acted as the primary liaison between gifted students, parents, and educators to ensure effective communication and support.
- Coordinated gifted services, including resource development and professional development for staff to meet the needs of advanced learners.
- Created and facilitated enrichment opportunities that challenged gifted students and promoted intellectual curiosity.
Teacher Trainer
Jane Schaffer Writing Program
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Trained educators in research-based writing strategies and modeled effective literacy instruction.
STEM Camp Teacher Panel Member
Arizona State University
- Enhanced STEM curriculum through hands-on, inquiry-based summer camp experiences.
- Designed interactive activities to foster critical thinking and collaboration among students.
- Collaborated with educators to improve teaching strategies for better student engagement.
- Led workshops that equipped teachers with effective problem-solving activities for classrooms.
Reading & Writing Instructor
Eliseo C. Felix School
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Delivered Wonders Reading Program, grammar lessons, and structured writing instruction.
- Designed narrative, informative, and argumentative writing lessons aligned with standards.
Education
B.S. - Childhood & Special Education
The College of Saint Rose
Albany, NY06.2014
Skills
- Literacy Intervention
- Reading Comprehension Strategies
- Phonics & Fluency
- Writing Instruction
- IEP Support
- Personalized Learning
- Online Learning Tools (Zoom, Google Classroom, Nearpod, Kami)
- Small-Group Instruction
- Data-Driven Instruction
- Positive Behavior Supports
Certification
- AZ Teaching Certification: Elementary (K–8), Special Education (K–12)
- GA Induction Certification: Early Childhood (P–5), Special Education (P–12)
- NY Initial Certification: Childhood Ed (1–6), Special Education (1–6)
Timeline
Personalized Learning Professional Development Instructor
Canyon Ridge School
01.2019 - 01.2020
Teacher Trainer
Jane Schaffer Writing Program
01.2019 - 01.2020
Classroom Teacher and Virtual/ Hybrid Teacher
Canyon Ridge School
08.2016 - 01.2020
Gifted Teacher Liaison
01.2016 - 01.2020
Reading & Writing Instructor
Eliseo C. Felix School
01.2015 - 01.2016
STEM Camp Teacher Panel Member
Arizona State University
B.S. - Childhood & Special Education
The College of Saint Rose