Kayla Stykalo
Educator
Abu Dhabi
Summary
Experienced educator dedicated to developing students’ academic skills and global awareness. Skilled in creating inclusive, engaging lessons that promote critical thinking, compassion, and responsibility. Collaborative team player with effective communication skills and a commitment to continuous growth and student success.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Elementary Teacher, Grades 2-3
American Community School
Abu Dhabi
08.2021 - Current
- Collaborated with a team of teachers to support approximately 100 students in a flexible model where learners rotated between classrooms.
- Supported and guided the Grade 2 team as team leader during the transition from a traditional classroom model to a collaborative teaching environment.
- Co-planned interdisciplinary units that integrated all subjects and reflected core school values: compassion, courage, integrity, and curiosity.
- Designed term-long learning experiences focused on school-wide Approaches to Learning: self-direction, collaboration, responsibility, and global citizenship.
- Grouped students flexibly based on focus areas like reading or math, providing targeted instruction aligned with individual needs.
- Participated in over 30 hours of professional development in the Literacy Workshop model to strengthen reading and writing instruction and improve student engagement.
- Participated in regular professional development with Inspire Citizens, focusing on fostering compassionate and caring global citizens through unit design and classroom culture.
- Engaged in ongoing professional development to support the transition from Everyday Mathematics to Illustrative Mathematics, and collaborated on revising school reporting practices to align with the Standards for Mathematical Practice.
- Attended weekly team meetings to analyze student data, discuss student well-being and needs, and refine instructional strategies.
- Utilized research apps to support student inquiry and critical thinking, while integrating SeeSaw and Toddle platforms for meaningful reflections and managing digital student portfolios.
- Maintained regular communication with parents through newsletters, digital platforms, and conferences to keep them informed and involved in their child’s learning journey.
Elementary Teacher, Grades 2-3
Maplewood School
Abu Dhabi
09.2019 - 07.2021
- Organized and facilitated online extracurricular clubs for approximately 50 students weekly during E-learning periods.
- Supported and trained Instructional Assistant Staff (IAS) in classroom management, lesson planning, and activity organization, enhancing overall classroom efficiency.
- Taught English Language Learner (ELL) students, adapting lessons to support language development and academic achievement.
- Attended and facilitated Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings for over 10 students and families, supporting tailored learning goals and accommodations.
- Participated in weekly professional development workshops and PLCs alongside 15+ educators to improve teaching practices and collaboration.
Grade 3 Teacher
Canadian International School
Abu Dhabi
10.2018 - 07.2019
- Developed and implemented over 15 lesson plans and activities aligned with the Alberta Curriculum and ADEK initiatives, supporting diverse learner needs.
- Ran after-school Appreciation Clubs with 30+ regular student participants, promoting kindness and positive school culture.
- Led a Health and Safety volunteer group of 10 staff members, coordinating monthly safety audits and awareness campaigns.
- Communicated regularly with parents, students, and faculty, averaging 20+ interactions weekly to provide constructive feedback and discuss instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with a team of 10+ teachers, administrators, and parents to support students in achieving learning objectives across core subjects.
Humanities Teacher
English School Attached to the University of Foreign Studies
Guangzhou, China
09.2017 - 07.2018
- Served as cover manager, preparing work and directing supply staff for up to 5 absent teachers weekly to ensure smooth classroom operation.
- Planned activities to carry out the Nova Scotia Curriculum while integrating Chinese culture.
- Led extracurricular programs including English tutoring for ESL students and Geography Club, supporting approximately 40 students in total.
- Collaborated with administrators and department team members in curriculum planning and assessment development to improve instructional quality.
- Implemented and promoted a debate-style classroom environment, increasing student participation and fostering critical thinking skills.
- Developed and integrated theatre activities specifically designed for ELL students to improve language acquisition and confidence in speaking.
- Coordinated regularly with Chinese head teachers to monitor and support students’ well-being and cultural adjustment within the school community.
Supply Teacher
Engage Education UK
Norwich, Norfolk
09.2015 - 06.2017
- Daily supply roles in classrooms from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
- Short term roles: Physical Education, English Language Arts, and Geography.
- Promoted physical, mental and social development by implementing classroom games and outdoor recreational activities.
- Partnered with teacher to plan and implement lessons following school's curriculum, goals, objectives and philosophies.
Child Care Assistant
Parkland Campus Kids
Manitoba, Canada
05.2014 - 09.2015
- Enforced rules and managed behavior through developmentally appropriate discipline.
- Kept notes of behavior issues, food served and medications administered to children.
School Aged Day Care Assistant
Linden Kids Klub
Manitoba, Canada
09.2014 - 03.2015
- Maintained child-friendly environment with access to outdoor activities.
- Allowed for ample outdoor recreation time to support physical development.
Lifeguard/Instructor
Kinsmen Aquatic Centre
Manitoba, Canada
01.2008 - 08.2014
- Learned and maintained proficiency in first responder skills such as First Aid and CPR to offer individuals in distress optimal support.
- Tracked students' progress and gave constructive feedback for skills requiring improvement.
Education
B.Ed - Elementary Education
Brandon University
Brandon, MB 09.2013 - 06.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Physical Education
Brandon University
Brandon, MB 09.2009 - 05.2013
High School Diploma -
Dauphin Regional Comprehensive Secondary School
Dauphin, MB 09.2004 - 07.2008
Timeline
Elementary Teacher, Grades 2-3
American Community School
08.2021 - Current
Elementary Teacher, Grades 2-3
Maplewood School
09.2019 - 07.2021
Grade 3 Teacher
Canadian International School
10.2018 - 07.2019
Humanities Teacher
English School Attached to the University of Foreign Studies
09.2017 - 07.2018
Supply Teacher
Engage Education UK
09.2015 - 06.2017
School Aged Day Care Assistant
Linden Kids Klub
09.2014 - 03.2015
Child Care Assistant
Parkland Campus Kids
05.2014 - 09.2015
B.Ed - Elementary Education
Brandon University
09.2013 - 06.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Physical Education
Brandon University
09.2009 - 05.2013
Lifeguard/Instructor
Kinsmen Aquatic Centre
01.2008 - 08.2014
High School Diploma -
Dauphin Regional Comprehensive Secondary School
09.2004 - 07.2008
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