Omar Cortez

About Omar Cortez

Experienced Robotics and Technology Teacher with a strong background in designing and implementing STEM curricula for elementary and middle school students. Expertise in robotics, coding, and drone technology, with a focus on fostering interactive learning, problem-solving, and teamwork. Proven success in mentoring competitive robotics teams to state and global achievements, while driving engagement through district-wide STEM programs. Skilled in creating inclusive, supportive, and dynamic classroom environments that prioritize student safety and emotional well-being. Passionate about inspiring creativity, and innovation in students, while preparing them for future academic and career success in STEM fields.• Event & Logistics Management: Coordinate and oversee the production and execution of districtwide academic competitions and extracurricular activities, including budget management, schedule development, setting deadlines, and organizing logistics.• Program Facilitation and Coordination: Attend and manage academic competitions and extracurricular activities, including events occurring after school and on weekends, ensuring smooth operation at the district, state, and national levels.• Training and Development: Facilitate ongoing training, workshops, and meetings for coaches and students to enhance skills and preparation for academic competitions and extracurricular activities.• Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with campus administrators and activity coordinators to recruit and support academic competition coaches, ensuring proper sponsorship of extracurricular activities at each campus.

Experience

1. Robotics Instructor

   Dallas Independent School District

   Aug 2019 — Present · US

   Design and implement STEM curriculum for elementary and middle school students, incorporating robotics, coding, and drone technology to foster interactive learning and engagement.• Mentor competitive robotics teams, driving them to success at state and global levels, while emphasizing the engineering design process to strengthen problem-solving and teamwork abilities.• Coordinate and execute district-wide STEM programs, facilitate professional development workshops on drone education, and host GirlPowered events to encourage the participation of underrepresented groups in STEM fields.• Ensure the physical and emotional safety of students in the classroom by implementing proactive safety protocols, while fostering an inclusive, supportive, and dynamic learning environment that promotes student engagement, participation, and success.

Education

• The University of Texas at El Paso

  Bachelor's degree, Elementary Education and Teaching

• University of North Texas

  Master's degree, Educational/Instructional Technology

  2016 — 2018