Open to opportunities

Helena Kore

@helenakore

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Instructional design specialist focused on engaging learning experiences.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that values innovative educational strategies and fosters collaboration.

I am an instructional design and education specialist with over 5 years of experience in creating, implementing, and evaluating engaging learning experiences tailored for multilingual learners and adult professionals. My passion lies in learner-centered design that is inclusive, responsive, and effective. I have a proven track record of leading cross-functional projects and translating complex learning goals into accessible online and in-person curriculum.

In my current role as an English as a Second Language Instructor at Grand Rapids Community College, I design and deliver multiple instructional units each week, utilizing project-based techniques and authentic materials. My efforts have resulted in a significant increase in student retention and enrollment growth. Additionally, I serve as the Communications Manager for MITESOL, where I lead educational communications and strategy for professional development initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and effective delivery of content.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

English as a Second Language Instructor

Current

Grand Rapids Community College

Jan 2024 - Present (1 year 7 months)

Designed and delivered weekly instructional units aligned with curriculum goals and learner needs, utilizing project-based techniques and authentic materials. Analyzed student success data to drive instructional decision-making and curriculum improvement, resulting in a 50% increase in student retention.

Instructional Design Curriculum Development Data Analysis STEM Integration Workplace Language Skills

Current

Communications Manager

Current

Michigan Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages

Nov 2022 - Present (2 years 9 months)

Led education communications and strategy for professional development initiatives, including planning, promotion, and content delivery for over 250 members. Coordinated multiple education projects, aligning outcomes with strategic goals, managing timelines, and tracking deliverables.

Communications Strategy Project Coordination Content Development Event Planning Stakeholder Engagement Strategic Planning Learning Focused Content Professional Development Online Events

Graduate Assistant–Writing Center

Grand Valley State University

Aug 2020 - May 2021 (9 months)

Designed individualized support plans for over 500 writers, with a focus on multilingual learners, leading to improved academic performance. Facilitated workshops and led peer tutor training sessions on best practices in writing instruction and linguistic equity.

Facilitation Peer Tutor Training Linguistic Equity Academic Performance Improvement Curriculum Development

Research Assistant–Curriculum Projects

Grand Valley State University

Aug 2019 - May 2020 (9 months)

Conducted qualitative research to evaluate multilingual teaching strategies and curriculum plans. Collaborated on recommendations for future program development based on research findings.

Qualitative Research Multilingual Teaching Strategies Curriculum Evaluation Program Development Collaboration Data Analysis Research Methodology Curriculum Development Recommendation Development

Literacy Specialist

Center for Sound Literacy Foundation

Jan 2017 - Jul 2019 (2 years 6 months)

Implemented phonics-based reading interventions in small group settings. Supported early literacy development and achieved measurable reading gains in students.

Reading Intervention Early Literacy Small Group Instruction Literacy Support Reading Gains Educational Support

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Grand Valley State University

M.A. Applied Linguistics, Applied Linguistics

Completed a Master's Capstone project titled 'Teaching English with a Garden: A Curriculum Incorporating STEM, Higher-level Literacy Skills, and Project-Based Learning'. This involved developing a curriculum that integrated STEM concepts, advanced literacy skills, and project-based learning for English language instruction.

Grand Valley State University

B.A. English, English

Studied English language and literature, gaining a comprehensive understanding of linguistic principles and literary analysis. Developed strong communication and critical thinking skills through extensive coursework and research.