Katie Burkhart

About Katie Burkhart

I am an emerging educator and student teacher in the Arizona Teacher Residency (AmeriCorps) program, developing my pedagogy at the intersection of global experience, athletics, creativity, and service in Title I schools. My passion is teaching middle school English language arts, where I help students discover their voice and build confidence through inquiry, critical thinking, and reflective writing.Having lived and worked in Japan and Italy, I bring an international perspective to the classroom that aligns with the mission of developing globally minded learners. My background as a Team USA athlete, national champion, and professional softball player instilled discipline, resilience, and teamwork—qualities I now model as a lifelong learner and educator.I am a member of TESOL International Association, where I engage with research and best practices supporting multilingual learners and culturally responsive instruction. I am also a member of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, which recognizes academic excellence and a commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service.Beyond athletics and education, I bring an artistic lens as a jeweler and designer, which fuels creativity and encourages innovation in the classroom. As I complete my M.Ed, I am also working toward 18 credit hours across art disciplines while pursuing a graduate certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language. I am the author of Mental Muscle: Skills to Win in Sports and Life and the forthcoming Beyond the Game, and I integrate storytelling, reflective writing, and creative expression into my teaching to help students connect literature, identity, and lived experience.My teaching philosophy centers on building strong learning partnerships, celebrating diverse perspectives, and empowering students to grow as reflective, principled, and compassionate individuals prepared to thrive in an interconnected world. As a developing educator, I continue strengthening my practice in inquiry-based learning, IB-aligned pedagogy, and multilingual learner support. I see myself as both teacher and learner, modeling curiosity, adaptability, and reflection as essential habits for growth in global learning communities.

Experience

1. Americorps Member

   Americorps Expanded Learning Exl

   Jun 2025 — Present · Phoenix, AZ, US

   Selected as an AmeriCorps Member through the Arizona Teacher Residency (AZTR), serving in a Title I public middle school while completing a year-long teaching residency.Responsibilities include:• Providing direct instructional support and co-teaching in a culturally and linguistically diverse classroom• Supporting student literacy, social-emotional learning, and academic growth• Designing and implementing standards-aligned lessons in collaboration with a mentor teacher• Using data-informed practices to support student progress• Completing community service hours and professional development as part of a national service commitmentThis role is part of a federally funded service-based leadership program focused on educational equity, community impact, and workforce development.

Education

• Scottsdale Community College

  Associate of Arts - AA, Metal and Jewelry Arts

• Northern Arizona University

  Master of Education - MEd, Elementary Education K-8

• GIA (Gemological Institute of America)

  Gemology, Applied Jewelry Professional

• Arizona State University

  Bachelor's Degree, Creative Writing & Mass Communications

  2004 — 2009