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Ulrike Puryear
Teacher & IB/MYP Coordinator at Tacoma Public Schools
Professional Background
Ulrike Puryear is a renowned education leader with a wealth of experience in the education management industry. As a dedicated Workshop Leader, she has contributed significantly to the development and enhancement of educational programs, particularly in international baccalaureate settings. Her work involves extensive collaboration with various educational institutions where she guides teachers and administrators in optimizing curriculum design and classroom management. Ulrike possesses a robust skill set including classroom instruction in ESL (English as a Second Language), German, and French, which underscores her commitment to language education and multicultural learning environments.
Ulrike’s career is marked by her pivotal roles beginning as a teacher of ESL, German, and French, progressing through various leadership positions such as Assistant Principal and Coordinator at Wayside Schools, and ultimately serving as Principal. Her hands-on experience in classroom instruction has shaped her effective leadership style, as she understands the challenges educators face daily. This has made her a respected figure in educational consultancy and development, particularly with her expertise in International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.
With a reputation for developing new programs that fulfill the diverse needs of learners, Ulrike has also taken her expertise on the road as an IB Workshop Leader and School Consultant, where she offers her insights and knowledge to schools adopting the IB curriculum. Her ability to facilitate workshops showcases her exceptional communication skills and her passion for sharing ideas for educational excellence.
Education and Achievements
Ulrike's educational background is a testament to her dedication to her profession and her unyielding desire to continue learning. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Teacher Leadership from Lamar University, where her studies focused on developing effective teaching practices and leadership strategies within educational institutions. This advanced degree is complemented by her Texas Teacher Certification, which qualifies her to teach students in grades 6-12 across multiple languages, including German, French, and ESL.
Before embarking on her graduate studies, Ulrike earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in German and French Literature & Linguistics from Simon Fraser University, laying a solid foundation for her language instruction career. Her diverse range of educational experiences has afforded her valuable perspectives that she carries into her teaching and administrative roles.
Ulrike’s passion for education extends beyond the classroom, as she has also played a significant role in contributing to educational literature. As a writer and author for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, she has helped craft educational materials that are used by numerous schools and educators, driving forward the quality of educational resources in the industry.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Ulrike Puryear has made notable contributions to the world of education that speak volumes about her expertise and dedication. As an IB Workshop Leader, she has conducted various workshops aimed at empowering educators to provide high-quality instruction aligned with international standards. Her tenure as the coordinator for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme and her role as Conference Coordinator for Texas IB Schools showcases her commitment to professional development among educators.
As Principal at Wayside Schools, Ulrike implemented innovative strategies that fostered an inclusive learning environment. Under her leadership, the school made significant strides in enhancing the academic environment for its diverse student population. Furthermore, her work as an ESL, German, and French teacher at Round Rock ISD reflects her approach of advocating for multilingual education, enabling students to access a broader spectrum of knowledge and cultural understanding.
Ulrike Puryear remains an influential figure in education management, known for her dynamic approach to teaching, leadership, and program development. Her legacy of nurturing talent and promoting educational excellence is evident through her various roles and contributions, making her a notable advocate for students and educators alike.
