Are You a Civitas Teacher?

Civitas Schools regularly celebrates the accomplishments and hard work of all of our teachers.

This month, Civitas Schools celebrates CICS Ralph Ellison Math teacher, Lamont Holifield.

Lamont Holifield, An Avid Mathematics Teacher With a Wealth of Knowledge!

In the classroom, Mr. Holifield implements a rigorous curriculum and sets clear and measurable expectations for all of  his students. He provides opportunities for all students to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes to be productive citizens of our society.  Additionally, he routinely utilizes instructional practices that actively engage students in the learning process. His mathematics in literacy program is lauded by many, so much so that he will be presenting at Imathination (a city PD program) in two seminars; Teaching Math to Students With Special Needs and Incorporating Literature and Literacy into Teaching Mathematics.

Outside the classroom, Mr. Holifield has spearheaded the creation of Ralph Ellison’s award winning debate program. He, along with the support of the Community Schools Advisor and a co-coach, pic built a team that we all can be proud of! The team has represented the Ralph Ellison Campus at numerous events and had the opportunity to connect with other scholars, while learning the art of debate and public speaking.  In addition, Mr. Holifield has led the inception of the first chapter and induction of Ellison students into the National Forensic League.

Mr. Holified also works diligently to secure outside funding for classroom needs! He is strong champion for DonorsChoose.org and after receiving a Donors Choose grant of 30 TI 30 calculators, Mr. Holifield was selected as a TI Fellow and will be receiving 30 TI Nspire calculators and software to promote technological advancement in the classroom.  Part of the program requires that he and the class video stream lessons and present to their peers at both Civitas HS campuses.

Mr. Holifield’s passion for teaching exudes his commitment to equity and opportunity for all. Civitas Schools and the nominating administration at CICS Ralph Ellison, commend Mr. Holifield’s uses of instructional strategies, innovations, and activities that are reflective of the best practices!

What we look for

• Civitas teachers believe all of our students can learn and achieve at high levels
• Civitas teachers believe in measuring student academic achievement in tangible ways
• Civitas teachers believe that a school's curriculum should be based on clear and rigorous standards
• Civitas teachers believe in accountability. That everyone; parents, students, teachers and staff should be held accountable for their work
• Civitas teachers instill confidence in students by instilling a CAN DO attitude, regardless of the task
• Civitas teachers don’t make excuses and they don’t settle for less than the best from themselves, their peers and their students
• Civitas teachers actively contribute to developing a strong school culture where professionalism, enthusiasm, pride for ones school and community and hard work are valued and rewarded
• Civitas teachers understand the complexities of working in urban schools that serve Chicago’s low-income populations and are willing to do whatever it takes for our students to master classroom content

Candidates should be able to demonstrate a mastery of subject knowledge, a proven ability to manage a classroom, and an entrepreneurial spirit and approach to teaching.

1033 W. Van Buren St., Suite 640
Chicago, IL 60607
312.733.6790
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