Kara Hayward

I am an educator with a passion for helping children realize their greatest potential.  There is always a mountain to move in our lives. With the proper guidance and a little perseverance, your child will be successful!  A parent of two young girls, I believe teaching is a responsibility and an honor.  

“Kid, you’ll move mountains.” – Dr. Seuss

My experience includes more than 20 years of teaching in the classroom as well as tutoring engagements across multiple grade levels and diverse subject matter.  I have worked in public and private schools, in the inner city and suburbs, and in a variety of socio-economic environments. I am K-5 certified with teaching experience ranging from Kindergarten to 5th grade. I have worked with at-risk, ELL, and gifted students.  In addition to my resource and classroom teaching at St. Agnes of Bohemia, I organized math clubs, test preparation clubs, and a school-wide reading buddy program.  I provided supplemental and remedial support whether that meant scheduling during lunch, before or after school.

In my most recent tutoring engagement, my student advanced three grade levels on his MAP reading scores in three months. I tailor my teaching strategies and instruction to facilitate successful learning that transfers in and out of the classroom. I look forward to working with your child and move those mountains!

Education

• National Louis University 2015 
  •  English as a Second Language Certification

• Elmhurst College 2000 
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

Professional Career 

• Private Tutor                                                                                      2017 – 2018 
  • Kindergarten Student
• Home Elementary School, Stickney, IL                                         2015 – 2016       
  • Fifth Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher

• Saint Agnes of Bohemia, Chicago, IL                                             2008 – 2015  
  • Fourth Grade Classroom Teacher 2011 – 2015
  • After School Tutoring Program Coordinator 2010 – 2012
  • Essential Learning Systems Facilitator 2008 – 2011
  • Gifted Teacher 2009 – 2010
  • Intervention Specialist 
  • Response to Intervention (RTI) Team Member 2008 – 2010
  • Part-time and Back-up Administrator 2008 – 2009 

• United Stand Non-Profit Agency 
  • St. Agnes of Bohemia and St. Helen, Chicago, IL               2005 – 2008                       
  • Resource Teacher for K – 8 students 

• Private Employer, Los Angeles, CA                                               2004 – 2005
  • Tutor and Personal Assistant

• Saint Margaret Mary School, Winter Park, FL                           2001 – 2003
  • 5th Grade Teacher

• Chicago Public Schools and Elmhurst Public School District 2000 – 2001
  • Long-term Substitute Teacher            
  • Fourth Grade, Third Grade and Middle School Resource Teacher