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Contact Information
Candidate ID: 36115
Name: Brenda K Kimball
Maiden/Other Names: Durkee/Pelletier/Kimball
Current Address: 100 Marymount Ave.
Butler Hall
Tarrytown, New York 10591
United States
Permanent Address: 336 Spruce Street
Newport, Vermont 05855
United States
Phone: 802-999-4268
Email: bk10e3090@westpost.net
Web Site: None provided

Career Information
Highest Degree Masters
Credits Beyond Degree 15
Current Salary $60,000 Per Year
Years Experience 11 years
Date Available July 1, 2010
Are you currently under contract? No
If yes, where? EF International Academy
Eligible to work in the United States? Yes

Cover Letter Template

Below is your cover letter template. To view the actual cover letters submitted
with previous job applications, go to the "Applications" section of "My Account"
and view the details of the application.

Kind regards,
Brenda K. Kimball
Brenda Kimball
100 Marymount Avenue a" Butler Hall
Tarrytown, NY 10591
914-597-7271 work
802-999-4268 cell
EF International Academy
Dr. Claudia Trew, Principal/IB Coordinator
914-597-7191
St. Andrew's School
Sharon Wilson, Principal
242-324-2621
St. Andrew's School
Dr. James Maxwell
242-324-2621

Rsum
Brenda K Kimball
100 Marymount Ave., Butler Hall, Tarrytown, New York 10591
802-999-4268 - bk10e3090@westpost.net
Education

Lyndon State College

Lyndonville, Vermont
Graduate Coursework
Major: Administrative Licensure
January 2007 to Present
Johnson State College
Johnson, Vermont
Master of Arts
Major: Psychology
GPA: 3.650
August 1998 to May 2001
Johnson State College
Johnson, Vermont
Bachelor of Arts
Major: Psychology
GPA: 3.580
August 1996 to May 1997
Experience

EF International Academy
Housing Director/School Counselor/Discipline
Tarrytown, New York
Aug 2009 - Present
EF International Academy is a private school with an enrollment of approximatel
y 280 international students from various parts of the world. As the Director of
Housing, I supervise the Residential Director and nine house parents in all asp
ects of dorm life, work closely with the Director of Security, his staff and the
Campus Director and Facilities regarding operations. As the School Psychologist
, I counsel students with their behavioral, social and emotional issues. I also
assist our linked International language school with an enrollment of over 700 s
tudents during student/personnel crisis issues. As an integral part of the admin
istrative team, regarding students and staff, I assist and support the Director
and Principal in the day-to-day operations. I provide teacher training technique
s for the faculty to assist with teaching classroom management and student behav
iors. When teachers request assistance, I observe their techiques and provide po
sitive feedback including suggestions for areas of improvement. I observe studen
ts in their classes for diagnostic purposes relating the information between the
home office and their parents. Hire tutors for students in academic difficulty.
Am an active member in faculty meetings to provide informational materials and
updates. Track all student data. I am the coordinator for the Graduation committ
ee. I organize informational assemblies regarding safety/health issues. I also t
aught an IB standard level Psychology class, plus an introductory Psychology cla
ss my first year.
As a new school, we developed a team of three counselors to manage all disciplin
ary and pastoral issues. As the only certified counselor, I provide supervision
for my colleagues, always available to them for assistance. My case load represe
nts Europe, Russia, Kazakhstan, Korea, Thailand and I assist with Spain, Venezue
la and Brazil for post-secondary educational purposes. I have an excellent rappo
rt with all of the admission offices.
Reason for leaving: In preparation for moving to the next step of administration
, in consultation with my supervisors, I feel well prepared to accept the next c
hallenge in my continued development. As a life-long learner, I believe it is im
portant to strive to meet those challenges and to continually grow. My ultimate
motto in education has been 'carpe diem' for not only my students, but also for
myself. Leaving EFIA will be a difficult advancement for me.
Supervisor: Dr. Claudia Trew (914-597-7258)
Experience Type: Independent School, Full-time
It is OK to contact this employer

St. Andrew's School

Director of Guidance/University Counselor
Nassau, Bahamas
Aug 2008 - Jun 2009
-overseeing the maintenance of transcripts, grades, activities
-meeting with students for individual college and career guidiance
-teach guidance classes for Years 10 &12
-respond to parental enquires for college information/guidance in assisting sele
ction process
-maintain college resource library
-organize and supervise the Year 11 Year 12 trip to the annual College Fair
-write recommendations and prepare applications packets
-create and forward transcipts for colleges/boarding schools
-supervise and coordinate all SAT I, SAT II, SSAT, ACT and PSAT testings
-distribute results to head of the secondary school
-maintain longitudinal testing statistics for the administraton
-order appropriate testing preparation materials for teachers and students
-liaising with boarding school representatives
-maintain library for boarding school resources
-recommending boarding schools to qualifying parents
-interview parents who have gone on tours for boarding schools
-disseminating student recommendations to administrators and teachers
-work with students who need assistance with their application/essay process
-tracking completion of applications and recommendations
-send mid-year and final reports to appropriate college/universities
-interpret testing results to administrators/teachers
-administer the DAT and career interest inventory in Year 11 and assisting in in
terpreting the results
-career guidance class rotational program for Year 11 and Year 12
-coordinate for the Disciplinary Committee
-provide information and written material for the school's newsletter
-reply promptly and professionally to parent/teacher enquiries regarding school
programs
-coordinate annual scholarship program
-update school profile and student support services brochure each year
-provide year-end testing/class statistics/graphs to the principal for public re
lations
-attend parent/teacher conferences
-evening meetings for Year 11, 12 & 13 parents
-support scholarship students
-attend Secondary Team Meetings
-accreditation work
Reason for leaving: One year contract.
Supervisor: Sharon Wilson (242-324-2621)
Experience Type: Independent School, Full-time
It is OK to contact this employer

Community Psychotherapy & Counseling

Psychologist Intern
Newport, Vermont
May 2005 - Aug 2008
Community Psychotherapy & Counseling Newport, Vermont
Psychologist (Intern) May, 2005-Present
Actively building personal practice while working towards licensure and certific
ation, assisting community members and providing additional student services out
side the school environment.
Individual, group, couples and family counseling
Career development counseling
Relaxation techniques/stress reduction, hypnosis
Supervisor: Tanya Searles (802-334-1027)
Experience Type: Other, Part-time
It is OK to contact this employer

Hazen Union School

Director of Guidance
Hardwick, Vermont
Aug 2006 - Jun 2008
- Administrator in charge of school during absence of Principal & Associate Pri
ncipal
- Supervisor for five employees in Student Services
- Supervised Special Education Dept. 1st year (13 employees)
- Administrative duties (dances, lunch, bus, patrolled halls)
- Counseling students, families, faculty, groups
- Evaluating guidance dept, nurse, special education dept.
- Presentations for career/college/world of work counseling
- College & Scholarship counseling and assistance
- Evening informational presentations for families
- Testing Administrator
- Department Budget
- Presentations for School Board
- Graduation Ceremonies
- Master Schedule
- Assist State of VT for alternative education for dropouts
- Tracking student data
Supervisor: David Ford (802-363-4895)
Experience Type: Public School, Full-time
It is OK to contact this employer

Community College of Vermont

Instructor
Newport, Vermont
Sep 2001 - Jan 2008
Community College of Vermont Newport, Vermont
Instructor September, 2001-January, 2008
Taught Human Growth and Development/Introduction to Human Services in an engagin
g learning community environment.
Taught diverse group of students with innovative multiple learning
techniques
Evaluate/develop course curriculum
Incorporate hybrid technology into semester classes
Supervisor: Connie Yandow (802-334-3387)
Experience Type: Public School, Part-time
It is OK to contact this employer

North Country Union High School

Guidance Counselor
Newport, Vermont
Jul 1999 - Jun 2006
Counseling students individually, working closely with their families, and crea
ting a positive rapport. Developing an extensive career curriculum for students.
Crisis intervention facilitator and consultant working with community service a
gencies.
Proficiency in individual/group counseling and faculty/staff
Coordinator for 504 (3 years)/ Facilitator for EST/504 Meetings
Developed/Designed/Facilitate Peer Leadership Program
Adhere to Vermont Frameworks Standards
Positive Public Relations (Parents & Community)
Conduct classroom technology sessions for student career
development
Student data tracking
Reason for leaving: To take an administrative position.
Supervisor: Geoff Lyons (802-527-7576)
Experience Type: Public School, Full-time
It is OK to contact this employer

Newport Town School

Guidance Counselor
Newport Center, Vermont
Mar 1999 - Jun 1999
Newport Town School Newport Center, Vermont
Substitute Guidance Counselor March-June, 1999
Duties: substitute for K-8 elementary school, enrollment of 287 students.
Supervisor: Terrence Keating (802-334-)
Experience Type: Public School, Full-time
It is OK to contact this employer

Morristown Elementary School

Asst. for School-Wide Discipline
Morrisville, Vermont
Aug 1998 - Mar 1999
Morristown Elementary School Morrisville, Vermont
Adm. Assistant for School-Wide Discipline 1998 - 1999
Duties: Assistant for Principal regarding discipline issues, coordinate weekly i
nformational meetings for paraprofessionals, assisted guidance counselor with te
aching responsive classroom methods to paraprofessionals, developed discipline d
atabase tracking system, student support team member(enrollment: 500 K-6).
Reason for leaving: Opportunity to be a paid Guidance Counselor position toward
my degree.
Supervisor: Fredericka French (888-4541)
Experience Type: Public School, Full-time
It is OK to contact this employer

St. Johnsbury School District

St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Oct 1997 - May 1998
St. Johnsbury School District St. Johnsbury, Vermont Administrative Assistant t
o Superintendent 1997 - 1998
Duties: Assisted Superintendent, prepared and expedited professional contracts/l
etters of intent, developed/managed absentee reporting system, prepared town rep
orts for publication, attended and maintained all data for board meetings; super
vised clerical personnel, developed/maintained database for ADM statistical repo
rts, tracked tuition for district budget, supervised/trained volunteers, allocat
ed scholarships, mediator/facilitator for secretarial personnel; assisted superi
ntendent and architects with school construction project
It is OK to contact this employer

St. Johnsbury Academy

St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Aug 1996 - Oct 1997
St. Johnsbury Academy St.Johnsbury,Vermont Grants/Tuition Administrator 1996 -
1997
Duties: Liaison between Academy and St. Johnsbury School District, tracked distr
ict grant expenditures, prepared state SDE reports for grants, developed/tracked
tuition students, clerical duties for Director of Student Services, assisted Of
fice Manager and Superintendent
It is OK to contact this employer

Community College of Vermont

Newport, Vermont
Sep 1995 - Sep 1996
Community College of Vermont Newport, Vermont
Learning Center Coordinator 1995 - 1996
Duties: Coordinated and scheduled mentoring sessions for students and tutors
It is OK to contact this employer

Community College of Vermont

Newport, Vermont
Sep 1995 - Jul 1996
Community College of Vermont Newport, Vermont
Work Study Student/Student Liaison 1995 - 1996
Duties: Clerical assistant for college staff/students; liaison between students/
college; attended bi-annual meetings up-dating college personnel and students.
It is OK to contact this employer

Jay/Westfield Elementary School

Jay, Vermont
Sep 1995 - Jun 1996
Jay/Westfield Joint Elementary School Jay, Vermont
K-6 Substitute Teacher 1995 - 1996
Substituted for K-6 classes for year
It is OK to contact this employer

Jay/Westfield Elementary School

Jay, Vermont
Jul 1994 - Sep 1995
Jay/Westfield Joint Elementary School Jay, Vermont
Secretary/Bookkeeper 1994 - 1995
Duties: Assisted P/T Interim-Principal, teachers, students, parents, school boar
d members, and superintendent, acquired substitute teachers, managed bookkeeping
system preparing all financial reports, student counts, payrolls, quarterly fil
ings, etc., computerized office, P/T janitor (enrollment: 90)
It is OK to contact this employer

Jay/Westfield Elementary School

Jay, Vermont
Aug 1993 - Jun 1994
Jay/Westfield Joint Elementary School Jay, Vermont
Para-Professional 1993 - 1994
Duties: Para-educator for 4th grade ADHD student with LD, transitioned students
first year mainstreamed into school system, created academic and behavioral modi
fications, monitored health symptoms, assisted teacher with curriculum groups fo
r mathematics and science, participated with student at all school evening funct
ions including overnight camp out.
It is OK to contact this employer

Troy Elementary School

North Troy, Vermont
Aug 1991 - Jun 1992
Troy Elementary School NorthTroy, Vermont
Para-Professional 1991 - 1992
Duties: IA for 6th grade student with ADHD, strict supervision required, prepare
/implement curriculum to maintain grade level, assisted teacher with group sessi
ons.
It is OK to contact this employer

People's Academy
Morrisville, Vermont
Aug 1987 - May 1990
Peopleas Academy Morrisville, Vermont
Guidance Administrative Assistant 1987 - 1990
Duties: Clerical duties and scheduling for two counselors, assisted students, fa
culty, administration, and parents with guidance issues, prepared manual transcr
ipts, maintained student records, contacted colleges/military representatives fo
r students/parents for interviews, evaluated course credits, administered and sc
ored GED exams, proctored SAT exams.
It is OK to contact this employer

Johnson State College

Johnson, Vermont
Aug 1986 - Jun 1987
Johnson State College Johnson, Vermont
Temporary Adm. Assistant/Business-Economics Dept. 1986 - 1987
Duties: Scheduled departmental meetings/interviews, prepared reports, collected
course evaluations, ordered supplies, prepared department bulletins, prepared cl
ass, assisted fifteen professors.
It is OK to contact this employer

Transcripts
Lyndon State College
Graduate Coursework verified Apr 17, 2009
Spring 2007 Grade Credits
Leadership & Organizational Change A 3.0

Summer 2007 Grade Credits

Public School Finance A 3.0

Fall 2007 Grade Credits

Supervision & Evalutation in the Contemp. Work Place B+ 3.0

Spring 2008 Grade Credits

School/Community Relationships and Policy Studies A 3.0
Johnson State College
Master of Arts verified Apr 12, 2006
Fall 1998 Grade
Organizational Administration in Guidance A
Learning Disabilities B

Spring 1999 Grade

Counseling in Groups A
Counseling & Addictive Behaviors A
Legal & Ethical Issues A

Summer 1999 Grade

Lab Experience 1 B+
Topical Issues in Counseling A
Fall 1999 Grade
Counseling Theories A-
Developmental Theory/Technology 1 A

Spring 2000 Grade

Psychopathology B
Developmental Theories 2 A-

Summer 2000 Grade

Sociodrama Techniques & Counseling A+
Evaluations & Measurement B-

Fall 2000 Grade

Research Procedures A-
Johnson State College
Bachelor of Arts verified Apr 12, 2006

Spring 1996 Grade

Marine Environmental & Organization A
Child Development B+
Ethics A
Learning Theory in Education A

Fall 1996 Grade

Abnormal Psychology A
Social Psychology A-
History of Psychology B+
Physiological Psychology A-

Spring 1997 Grade

Elementary Statistics C-
Rhetorical Expression P
Personality Theories B+
Psychological Aspects Gender A

Fall 1997 Grade

Child Literature A
Methods in Social Science A-
Developmental Psychology A
Women in History A

Spring 1998 Grade

Career Counseling B-
Family Interaction A
Psychology Adult & Aging A-
Counseling B

References
Name: David Ford
Relation: Supervisor
Time Known: 4 years, 5 months
Employer: Orleans Southwest Supervisory Union
Title: Superintendent
Address: P.O. Box 338
Hardwick, Vermont 05843
United States
Phone: (802) 363-4895
Email: dford13@myfairpoint.net
Letter: Applicant
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter is offered in support of Brenda Durkee, as a professional educator.
I have known her for two years in her role as Director of Guidance at Hazen Unio
n School in Hardwick, Vermont.
Brenda came to the Guidance Director position with successful experience as a Gu
idance Counselor in a high school setting. Her new position added a full measure
of administrative reponsibilities, as well as a counselor assignment for sophom
ores, juniors, and seniors in the school. She quickly assumed the responsibility
for scheduling, supervision of student service personnel, oversight of 504 acco
mmodation plans for special needs students and implementation of a newly install
ed Student Information System.
Her learning curve with her new assignment was steep and she quickly demonstrate
d a remarkable work ethic. She also became an integral part of the administrativ
e team and has provided input into the operation of the entire school programs.
Brenda is a person who deeply cares about the students assigned to her. She coun
sels them and their parents effectively as they encounter the challenges of life
in adolescence. She makes herself available even when the weight of the other a
spects of her assigned duties might easily cause her to be less available. She m
aintains a sunny smile and a cheery greeting for everyone as she helps solve pro
blems and ease the burdens of those in need.
She has learned a great deal in her tenure at Hazen. She has learned to apprecia
te the balance needed between meeting the needs of the sudents with the needs of
the adults who work in the school. Responding to faculty advocacy for "their sc
hedule and class assignments" has been a growth area and Brenda has confirmed th
at student needs have a higher priority than the needs of the staff who serve th
em. At the same time, she has been able to form close professional relationships
with her colleagues on the staff.
Brenda is seekng a new position in support of students and their families. I rec
ommend her to your consideration as an experienced counselor and school administ
rator. If you have questions or need additional information, please feel welcome
to contact me.
Sincerely yours,

David A. Ford
Superintendent of Schools

Name: Joanne LeBlanc

Relation: Supervisor
Time Known: 4 years, 5 months
Employer: Orleans Southwest Supervsory Union
Title: Director of Student Services
Address: P.O. Box 338
Hardwick, Vermont 05843
United States
Phone: (802) 472-6063
Email: jleblance@ossu.org
Letter: Unknown
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter is written on behalf of Brenda Durkee, with whom I have known for th
e past one and half years in my capacity as Director of Student Services. Brenda
has demonstrated a great passion for her job. She spends countless hours over a
nd above her regular work week, striving to ensure that all students receive the
services they need at Hazen Union.
Brenda's first year at Hazen Union came with quite a learning curve. Two months
into the school year, Brenda not only became responsible for the Guidance Depart
ment, but also of the Special Education Department as the result of the EST Coor
dinator leaving. Brenda demonstrated a knowledge base regarding special educatio
n, Section 504 and EST processes. Her responsibilities tripled with the addition
of special education as she took on supervisory and evaluative responsibilities
of two special educators and twelve para-educators as well as the guidance staf
f. During the months of November through February, when she was responsible for
all of this, I observed Brenda reconciling differences amongst staff, manage cha
llenging staff members, work effectively with parents and students and guide her
department in utilizing best practices.
No matter what has been given to Brenda, she has always remained a professional
in the management of her responsibilities. She has developed administrative skil
ls in her position and is beginning to take on the role of a leader in the syste
m. Her quest for ongoing knowledge has led her to pursue an administrative endor
sement. Brenda is able to remain calm in stressful situations and does what need
s to be done.
Brenda cares deeply for the students she works with. She is committed to improvi
ng educational systems so that all students can grow and learn. I find her work
to be of quality. It is unfortunate that Brenda is leaving as she has just begun
to move the system in a positve direction. I wish Brenda much success in her fu
ture endeavors.
Sincerely,

Jonne M. LeBlanc
Director of Student Services

Name: Geoff Lyons

Relation: Not provided
Time Known: Not provided
Employer: North Country Union High School
Title: Associate Principal
Address: Not provided
Phone: 802-334-7921-3047
Email: glyons@ncuhs.org
Letter: Unknown
To Whom It May Concern:
It is with great pleasure that I submit a letter of reference on behalf of Brend
a Durkee. I have worked with Brenda over the past four years in my capacity as a
n administrator and the previous three years as a physical education teacher.
In both rolls, I have found Brenda to be the consummate professional as a guidan
ce counselor. Brenda has the students' needs first and foremost, whether it is w
orking through a personal issue or assisting in the college application process.
Brenda places a high emphasis on creating a positive relationship with her stud
ents. Brenda's calm demeanor allows the student to feel comfortable and safe. Th
is is also true in the meetings Brenda leads with parents and teachers involving
the students in addressing concerns regarding academic and/or behavior issues.
Brenda has established a peer leader program that allows students to work throug
h issues, tutor other students and develop leadership skills. She is a member of
North Country's Crisis Team and Focus Committee, both of which focus on student
s in distress. Brenda has also been the AP test coordinator, a member of a facul
ty committee and the school culture committee.
Brenda gives to the students, the faculty, and the school community. No matter h
ow busy Brenda is she gives her time and expertise to those who are in need. It
has been a pleasure to work with Brenda. An integral part of North Country Union
High School, Brenda is and will be an asset wherever she goes.
I have no reservations in recommending Brenda. If I can be of further assistance
, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Geoffrey Lyons
Associate Principal

Name: Bob Davis

Relation: Not provided
Time Known: Not provided
Employer: North Country Union High School
Title: Dean of Students
Address: Not provided
Phone: 802-334-7921-3052
Email: bdavis@ncuhs.org
Letter: Unknown
To Whom It May Concern:
It is with great pleasure that I submit a letter of reference on behalf of Brend
a Durkee. We have worked together as colleagues on the North Country Union High
School staff for the past seven years. The adjectives that come to mind when des
cribing Brenda are empathetic, caring, competent and team oriented.
Brenda truly cares about her students. She readily holds them accountable for th
eir actions, but can find humor in difficult situations, and is always fair. Ms.
Durkee loves to work as a mentor to students and is thoroughly knowledgeable in
the role of a guidance counselor. She can relate to the self-motivated upper le
vel student, as well, the student that questions the relevance of education. Bre
nda is a true professional.
Ms. Durkee has served many years as a member of our guidance team. It requires s
pecial skills to work with students at North Country. The transition to high sch
ool is a traumatic step for many NCU students as they come from very small sendi
ng schools and often impoverished and unstable homes. Guidance counselors need t
o be nurturing, have the ability to collaborate with the other staff members and
not hesitate to make home contacts. Brenda excels in these areas.
The Administration at North Country Union High School has initiated the process
of change over the past several years to improve student performance. Change, ev
en if needed, can encounter resistance. The North Country staff is comprised of
many veteran teachers who initially objected to change. Brenda recognized the ne
ed for change and not only worked as a team player, but also embraced the challe
nge. Brenda is diligent and unwavering in seeing a task through when convinced t
hat it is necessary for the welfare of students. She displays understanding and
patience, but will not hesitate to be frank and issue directives when required.
Brenda exhibits a high degree of emotional intelligence. her people skills are e
xcellent. Counseling can be fraught with difficult situations involving angry st
udents and angrier parents. Although it might be impossible to avoid dissatisfac
tion, people appreciate fairness, empathy and honesty. Brenda brings that to the
job.
I have focused on specific traits that Brenda has displayed while at North Count
ry, which are stengths regrettably rare. It is easy to suggest change, but diffi
culty to see it through. Ms. Durkee has adapted to change with grace, humor and
dignity.
In summation, Ms. Durkee is a special educator with the vision to pursue positiv
e change coupled with the ability to make said change a reality. Any institution
that utilizes the talents of Ms. Durkee will be better for it.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance in Ms. Du
rkee's candidacy for employment at your institution.
Sincerely,
Bob Davis
Dean of Students

Name: Patricia Buttice

Relation: Not provided
Time Known: Not provided
Employer: North Country Union High School
Title: Physical Education Teacher
Address: Not provided
Phone: 802-334-7921-3032
Email: tbuttice@ncuhs.org
Letter: Unknown
To Whom It May Concern:
It is with great pleasure that I write this letter in support of Brenda Durkee f
or a guidance counselor position in a school. I have known Brenda for the past s
even years as a professional, parent and friend.
Brenda is currently employed at North Country Union High School in Newport, Verm
ont. She is a guidance counselor for juniors and seniors. She is supportive and
encourages many students to continue their education beyond high school. She mai
ntains a high standard to which she encourages every student to strive to do the
ir best. Brenda is a caring and compassionate person who always has the student'
s best interest in mind.
Brenda was my son's guidance counselor while he attended North Country. He is no
w attending a four year college and doing well. Brenda was instrumental in helpi
ng my son choose the best courses for his interest and ability. She helped with
his college search and I attribute his success to her.
Brenda always displays a very professional attitude through her counseling. In d
ealing with her colleagues, she maintains a great deal of integrity through her
honest actions. Brenda does not hesitate to stand up for what she considers best
for young people.
In closing, I highly recommend Brenda Durkee for a counseling position. She will
be an asset to any school. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to
call.
Sincerely,
Patricia Buttice
Physical Educator

Name: Connie Yandow

Relation: Not provided
Time Known: Not provided
Employer: Community College of Vermont
Title: Coordinator of Academic Services
Address: Not provided
Phone: 802-334-3388
Email:
Letter: Unknown
To Whom It May Concern:
I have known Brenda Durkee for over 10 years, first as a student, then a work st
udy student and finally as an instructor. I have supervised her as an adjunct in
structor in the Newport Community College of Vermont site since 2001. I have spo
ken with her on a number of occasions about her teaching; and she has been forma
lly observed twice, the first time during her first semester and the last time d
uring the fall 2005 semester.
She has taught PSY-1050 Human Growth and Development for almost every semester o
ver the past 5 years. Typically, her classes meet for 3 hours per week during a
15 week semester. Keeping students engaged for that length of time requires some
one dedicated to and excited about the learning process as well as creative in h
er approach to the material.
Her enthusiasm for the work and ideas is clear. She is animated and invested in
teaching. Her organization is apparent in the way she structures the class. She
provides positive feedback to students and demonstrates her respect for them as
learners by thanking them for their input. In her last observation I said,
I saw...a well organized class with an enthusiastic instructor...You checked in
with students
individually before the class began. You exhibit a comfort with students and the
students
apparently felt comfortable with you. You began with an overview of the day's ag
enda and then
moved on to questions about homework and review of the take-home quiz...You allo
w(ed)
students to "argue" their answers (to the quiz) so they are able to process the
information.
She holds students to the objectives of the course, and often speaks with me whe
n she has concerns about a particular student's progress.
In addition to formal observations, CCV uses student feedback at midterm and end
of class to evaluate instructors teaching. Brenda consistently receives high ra
nking from her students. Comments from them include:
"Brenda was enthusiastic and compassionate."
"Clear expectations."
"Great use of material (and) used many different methods of teaching"
"[Class is] never boring."
I feel that over the past 5 years Brenda has developed into an effective instruc
tor whose genuine interest in the students and enthusiasm for the material have
shaped this growth.
If there are any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Connie Yandow
Coordinator of Academic Services

Test Scores
No test scores reported.

Certifications
Title State Expires License #
Level II: Professional Educator's License Vermont Jun 2015 3-64 Level II
Non-Licensed & Non-Certified Psychotherapist Vermont Nov 2008 097-0000989

Language Skills
Language Speaking Reading Writing
English Fluent Fluent Fluent

Extracurricular Activities
Below are activities this applicant is willing and qualified to lead as a coach,
supervisor or other role listed.
Class Advisor
Club Advisor
Swimming
Volleyball