ND McCray is a teacher by day, a writer by night, and a roller skating enthusiast by the weekend.
As a social studies teacher at Aldine ISD's Shotwell Middle, an IB World School in Houston, I develop and deliver engaging and differentiated lessons for 7th and 8th-grade students, covering topics such as Texas history, U.S. history, geography, economics, political science, systems of government, and responsible citizenship.
I collaborate with other teachers and staff on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program, which aims to foster intercultural awareness and critical thinking among learners. I also work closely with gifted and talented, honors, special education, and 504 coordinators to ensure that all students receive appropriate support and accommodations.
I have over 15 years of experience as a writer, educator, and military veteran, with a passion for exploring diverse cultures, perspectives, and stories. I have taught English as a foreign language in China, tutored ESL learners in the U.S., and written for various publications and platforms worldwide, including Relay Graduate School of Education, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, The Carter Center, Ebony, and Medium.
I hold a Master of Arts in Teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education, with certifications in English Language Arts and Reading/Social Studies 4-8 and Science of Teaching Reading, as well as a Master of Arts in New Media Journalism from Full Sail University and a Bachelor of Science in Communication from the University of Phoenix.
I am currently pursuing additional certifications in ESL and 7-12 Social Studies. My goal is to inspire and empower my students to become lifelong learners, global citizens, and effective communicators.
My hobbies include roller skating, road trips, traveling to new places, attending concerts, and learning new technologies.
Additional Educational Certifications I currently have:
-
IB MYP Individuals and Societies (Cat. 1) Certificate
-
GT/Honors Certificate
-
PPR (Professional Pedagogy and Responsibilities) Certificate
-
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Certificate