Open to opportunities

John Kikrilis

@johnkikrilis

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Dedicated educator with a passion for student growth and development.

Zimbabwe

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that allows me to inspire students and foster their academic growth in a supportive environment.

As a passionate educator with extensive experience in teaching communications, English, and philosophy, I have dedicated my career to fostering student growth and engagement. My journey began with a B.A. in English and Communications from the University of Pittsburgh, followed by a Master of Arts in English Education from Wilmington University and further studies in Educational Leadership and Trauma-Informed Practice. I have been honored with several accolades, including Teacher of the Year in 2013 and 2024, and the 'You Are the Light' Recipient in 2024.

Currently, I serve as a Professor of Communications at Northampton Community College, where I teach Introduction to Communications and Public Speaking to incoming college freshmen. My teaching philosophy emphasizes interactive learning and student participation, ensuring that each student feels valued and engaged. Additionally, I have experience teaching philosophy and English courses at the Southeast Youth Development Center, where I work with students aged 13-20, focusing on critical thinking and ethical discussions.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Communications, Philosophy, and English Studies Instructor

Current

Juvenile Justice System, Southeast Youth Development Center

Jan 2024 - Present (1 year 5 months)

Instructed students aged 13-20 in two Philosophy Courses (Introduction to Philosophy and Ethics/Morality) and three English Courses (Literature, Composition, and Creative Writing). Adapted teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of the student population.

Philosophy English Literature Creative Writing Curriculum Development

Current

Professor of Communications

Current

Northampton Community College

Jan 2025 - Present (5 months)

Taught Introduction to Communications and Public Speaking to incoming college freshmen in a weekly 3-hour in-person seminar. Focused on foundational communication principles and public speaking techniques.

Public Speaking Communication Skills Curriculum Development Classroom Management

AP Literature and Composition/Mentor Teacher

Susquehanna Township School District

Jan 2017 - Jan 2024 (7 years)

Mentored Novice Teachers, guiding them in effective Classroom Management, strategies for working with Diverse Learners, and understanding pedagogical best practices. Contributed to curriculum writing initiatives over a 10-year period.

Mentoring Classroom Management Pedagogical Best Practices Curriculum Development Educational Leadership Professional Development

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Pittsburgh

Bachelor of Arts, English and Communications

Completed a Bachelor of Arts degree focusing on the interdisciplinary fields of English and Communications. Gained foundational knowledge in literary analysis, rhetoric, and various communication theories.

Wilmington University

Master of Arts, English Education

Pursued a Master of Arts in English Education, specializing in pedagogical approaches for teaching English. Developed advanced skills in curriculum design, instructional strategies, and educational assessment.

Elizabethtown College

Masters, Trauma-Informed Practice

Completed a Master's degree in Trauma-Informed Practice, gaining expertise in understanding and responding to the effects of trauma. Focused on developing strategies for creating supportive and healing environments in various professional settings.

University of Arkansas

Masters, Educational Leadership

Obtained a Master's degree in Educational Leadership, focusing on the principles and practices of effective school administration. Studied organizational development, policy analysis, and leadership theories within educational contexts.