​​​​Karen Wallis ​

Teaching / training skills: I know a wide variety of strategies for helping others gain knowledge and skills.  I have experience creating my own instructional materials to both compliment existing curriculum and meet needs that are not being met with what is already available.  I know how to create an effective learning environment and gauge my audience's reactions to determine if they are getting it or not. I know how to modify my instruction during delivery to meet my learners' needs. 

Adaptability skills: My capacity to adjust to new situations and tolerate change well is fairly high.  I take pride in adapting to the needs of the moment.
Leadership skills: I've acted as a school and union leader and lead community organizations  both in a personal and professional capacity.  In these positions I have delegated responsibilities, monitored progress and assessed the quality of job performance of others.  I supported the people I supervised with appropriate training to address need areas and organizational interests.  I also praised those that were going above and beyond.  I understand the importance of motivation and empowering those that serve with and under you. 

Public speaking skills:  I was tasked with training my department, school faculty, and sometimes district shareholders many times while working in Hawaii.  Whenever I piloted a new program, I was required to present my findings and share successful strategies.  I am experienced in making formal presentations and I know how to present information in interesting ways that encourage engagement. 
Analytical, logical, and critical thinking skills: I'm observant and able to draw specific conclusions from general observations or from a set of specific facts. I can synthesize information and ideas.  I seek all possible solutions to a problem, I don't just go with the first option that becomes available.  I review the information available and weigh the pros and cons before making an objective decision.
Creative thinking skills: I really love coming up with new ways to do things, I'm a fan of working smarter not harder.  Saving time and money is better for everyone in my opinion so whenever I come up with a new idea that makes my life easier I'm happy to share.  I also enjoy coming up with new ways to use what's available, living in the Pacific really developed these skills because I often had to make what was available to me work. 
Planning skills:  Whether I'm planning a teacher training, student field trip, a community yard sale, or a road trip, I love planning.  I enjoy making lists and having the autonomy to  establish objectives and needs, research and evaluate options, and make well informed decisions.   
Research skills:  As an educator, it is highly important to be resourceful.  If I don't know something or I need to clarify the information I already have, I know how to find and collect relevant information.  I know how to analyze data, summarize findings and report them to the appropriate parties.  Research is also my favorite part of the planning process.  
Administrative, clerical, and organizational skills:  I like to think this website demonstrates I have above average technology skills and I would be more than capable operating computers, both Mac and PC, in addition to other basic office equipment.  I can design and maintain filing systems; I'm able to organize information, people and/or things in a systematic way.  I have never missed a deadline; I set goals and achieve them.