Courtnie Ward
Meet Courtnie Ward, M.S. - Expert Reading, Writing & High School Educator
Courtnie Ward is a strategic and mission-driven educator with a Master of Science degree and extensive experience teaching at Washington-Liberty High School. While she has deep expertise in Family and Consumer Sciences, she is a versatile instructor with a proven ability to help high school students excel in reading, writing, and test preparation.
Areas of Expertise:
Reading & Writing: 6th-8th Grade Reading & Writing, High School Reading & Writing, Resume Writing.
Test Preparation: SAT Verbal, ACT, PSAT Verbal.
Social Studies: U.S. History, World History, Government, Economics.
Science: Biology, General Science.
Academic Skills: Organization, Computer Basics, Statistics, Financial Literacy.
Family & Consumer Sciences: Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Sustainable Fashion & Design.
Teaching Experience:
Family and Consumer Science/CTE Specialist | Washington-Liberty High School (Present): Designs and implements project-based curriculum for 9th-12th grade courses, integrating STEM and CTE standards across multiple subjects.
Family and Consumer Science/CTE Specialist | Arlington Public Schools (2023):
Designs and implements project-based curriculum for 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade courses, integrating STEM and CTE standards across multiple subjects.
STEM Program Leader | Headfirst Summer Camps (2024):
Led and managed STEM developmental programs for adolescents, designing activities focused on leadership, environmental awareness, and conflict resolution.
CAD Fashion and Graphic Design Instructor | Washington School for Girls (2023-2024):
Conducted workshops and tutorials for students on CAD software and industry-standard design practices in a fashion-focused setting.
Graduate Research & Teaching Assistant | Alabama A&M University (2022-2023):
Assisted professors in delivering course material for subjects like Advanced Clothing Design and Historic Costume, developing educational resources, and supporting students through interactive learning sessions.
Teaching Philosophy:
"I believe in a student-centered approach that empowers learners with practical skills for real-world success. My goal is to make learning dynamic by connecting academic concepts to practical life applications, fostering critical thinking, and building confidence in every student."
What Makes Courtnie Special:
Public School Educator: Courtnie is a Family and Consumer Science/CTE Specialist for grades 9-12 at Washington-Liberty High School.
Versatile Instructor: She is qualified to teach a wide range of subjects, from middle school reading and U.S. History to biology and statistics.
Real-World Writing Skills: She has experience teaching practical skills like resume writing and has a background in preparing grant proposals, demonstrating high-level research and writing abilities.
Leadership & Mentoring: As a STEM Program Leader and Research Assistant, she has experience mentoring both students and educators in creating impactful solutions.
Sustainability Expert: In her professional role as a Sustainability Liaison, Courtnie works across departments to advise on and implement sustainable practices, bringing a unique, eco-conscious perspective to her teaching.
Education & Achievements:
Master of Science in Family and Consumer Science, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Minor in Psychology, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
National conference presenter, including the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences ("Banana Fibers: New Wave of Sustainable Textiles and Fashion")
Founder and Chair of the Violet Phoenix Foundation, supporting young adult cancer survivors
Owner and Lead Designer of Courtnie Antoinette Couture, dedicated to sustainable fashion