About Melinda Parks
Melinda Parks acts as a coach, guide, and support for social studies teachers in schools receiving services from the grant. She collaborates with teachers and her K20 Center coworkers to develop authentic learning experiences for students and teachers, designs and implements professional development, and helps teachers more effectively use instructional strategies, learning theories, educational technology, and other resources in their schools.
Her work in and out of the classroom is designed to cultivate agency. This means, among other things, giving people the opportunity to explore areas of their own interests and strengths, ensuring that there is an environment that allows for taking chances and making mistakes, providing multiple ways to obtain and demonstrate knowledge, and sharing feedback that both encourages and fosters growth.
She has taught 8th grade social studies at Mustang Middle School and 10th–12th grade social studies at Westmoore High School, including Advanced Placement European History, Advanced Placement World History, Ethnic Studies, World History, 20th Century World History, American History, and Oklahoma History. She also serves as Curriculum Director for the Oklahoma Association of Student Council’s BASIC Leadership Workshop, which works to develop student leaders by offering training and hands-on experiences for students. These experiences enable them to enhance their local student council and school culture while preparing themselves for future leadership roles in their schools, careers, and communities.
Melinda has 25 years of classroom experience and has been a National Board Certified Teacher since 2007.
Skills & Expertise
University of Oklahoma
M.A.
History
University of Oklahoma
B.A.
History
Program Affiliations
