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Kelly Teagarden
History Teacher, Cavalier Capstone Coordinator, Upper School Diversity Coordinator at Durham Academy
Professional Background
Kelly Teagarden is a dedicated and enthusiastic history teacher with a wealth of experience in teaching various subjects, including U.S. History, European History, and World Cultures. Her passion for education is evident in her commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom. As an advocate for experiential learning, Kelly employs service learning techniques to ensure that her students engage deeply with the material, offering them a rich and impactful educational experience.
In her role at Durham Academy, Kelly serves not only as a history teacher but also as the Cavalier Capstone Coordinator and the Upper School Diversity Coordinator. In these positions, she fosters a collaborative learning environment while promoting access and opportunity for all students. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, as she has dedicated herself to preparing students to be informed global citizens.
Previously, Kelly worked as a history teacher at prestigious institutions including Severn School and Greenwich Academy. Her diverse teaching experiences also include a significant tenure at The American School in Switzerland (TASIS), where she held multiple roles, including Service Learning Program Director, IB CAS Coordinator, and Theory of Knowledge Teacher. Her extensive background in international educational settings has helped her cultivate a unique perspective on global issues that shapes her teaching philosophy.
Education and Achievements
Kelly's academic journey laid the foundation for her advocacy in human rights and global education. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Rights, focusing on Protecting and Providing Freedom, Justice, and Peace, from Duke University. Additionally, she furthered her education in International Studies with an emphasis on Organizations and Social Justice at the School for International Training. This robust educational background strongly influences her approach to teaching and her commitment to fostering human rights awareness in her students.
Her involvement in educational development extends to her contributions while attending Duke University, where she participated in the WISER Student Leadership Committee and served as a student teacher. Her participation in these organizations helped develop her leadership skills and her dedication to supporting girls' education and human rights initiatives.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Kelly Teagarden has achieved numerous milestones that demonstrate her devotion to teaching and her leadership capabilities:
- As a history teacher, her innovative teaching methods and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion have profoundly impacted her students, often sparking discussions on global issues and human rights.
- At Durham Academy, her role as the Upper School Diversity Coordinator showcases her commitment to implementing educational practices that support a diverse student body and foster an inclusive environment.
- Kelly’s efforts in promoting service learning reflect her belief in the power of experiential education, encouraging students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts, which not only enhances their learning but also builds empathy and social responsibility.
- Her leadership as a Cavalier Capstone Coordinator demonstrates her capability to guide students in their educational journey, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed for future success.
- During her time at TASIS, Kelly successfully coordinated programs that integrated service learning, theory of knowledge, and history, proving her ability to manage multiple educational roles effectively while delivering a cohesive learning experience.
- Her contributions to global issues discussions and debates instill in her students a sense of responsibility towards the world, encouraging them to think critically and engage actively with pressing human rights topics.
A Glimpse Into Her Passion
Outside of her teaching responsibilities, Kelly Teagarden remains passionate about international educational development, human rights advocacy, and the importance of girls' education worldwide. She actively seeks opportunities to engage in discussions and initiatives that align with her values, preparing her students to be inclusive leaders in a multicultural society. By focusing on experiential learning and service, Kelly enriches her students' knowledge and encourages them to contribute to their communities meaningfully and thoughtfully.
Through her multifaceted career as a history teacher and educational leader, Kelly Teagarden has made a significant impact on her students' educational experiences. Her dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, coupled with her passion for human rights and global issues, positions her as a leader in her field. Kelly’s incredible commitment to education continues to inspire students and fellow educators alike, making her an invaluable asset to the educational community.
