Professional Portfolio

Kariemah Muhammad

Educator · Trainer · Supervisor · Consultant

Multi-certified and award-winning leader with 30+ years of experience in innovative education strategies, social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and student/family advocacy.

📞 Contact

(908) 299-6712

Professional Experience

1
Educational Director (2025 - Present)

Founder & Director of FAR (Foundational And Restorative) Learning Solutions LLC, NJ, established to empower students through foundational learning, restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and core subjects.

Services:

  • Private/Homebound/Homeschool Instructor
  • After School Programming
  • Consulting

farlearningsolutions.org


2
Court Appointed Special Advocate (2024 - Present)

CASA for children of Essex County, Newark, NJ: Volunteer Advocate for the best interest of neglected and abused children in the court system, ensuring their needs are met and voices are heard at home, in school, and in court.

3
Teacher (1995-2023)

Over 30 years at Newark Public Schools in Newark, NJ, passionately educating students from grades 1-7.

  • Awarded Teacher of the Year in 2011 and 2015
  • Proven student success in district and state assessments
  • Fostered an inclusive environment where students with special needs thrived

Teaching Assignments:

  • Avon Avenue Elementary School, Grade 7
  • Ivy Hill Elementary School, Grades 1, 2
  • Thirteenth Avenue Elementary School, Grades 1, 2, 5, 6
  • Belmont Runyon Elementary School, Grade 2
  • Miller Street Elementary School, Grade 2
4
Educational Director (2022 - 2024)

Founder & Director of COCOA (Culture Of Classroom Organization and Achievement) Educational Services, NJ, established and lead an educational service company dedicated to fostering classroom organization, achievement and positive culture. Provided individualized and group training sessions, workshop and consulting services focused on:

  • Curriculum and instructional enhancements for schools
  • Educator mentorship and coaching
  • Classroom management strategies
  • Techniques for building positive learning environments and improving student outcomes


5
Newark Teacher Union Representative (2022-2023)

School Building Representative Newark Public Schools, Newark, NJ:

  • Participated in negotiating contracts and resolved grievances
  • Informed staff of district updates and changes in facilitated meetings
  • Improved working conditions and school climate

Building Assignment: Ivy Hill Elementary School

6
Substitute Administrator (2003-2016)

Acted as Interim Administrator during leadership absence.

Interim Assignments:

Belmont Runyon Elementary School

Miller Street Elementary School

Thirteenth Avenue Elementary School

7
Afterschool & Summer Youth Development Program Supervisor (1996-2006)

Led dynamic afterschool and summer programs at Newark Public Schools, Newark, NJ. Oversaw staff training, student safety, academic support, and engaging educational and recreational activities for diverse youth.

Supervising Assignments:

  • Thirteenth Avenue Elementary School
  • Clinton Avenue Elementary School
  • Chancellor Avenue Elementary School
  • Dr. E. Alma Flagg School
8
Substitute Teacher (1990-1995)

Newark Public Schools, Newark, NJ: Ensured the smooth operation, safety, and educational enrichment of K-8 students in the absence of the permanent teacher.

Teaching Assignment:

  • Avon Avenue Elementary School
9
Academic Interventionist (1992-1993)

Newark Public Schools, Newark, NJ: Implemented intervention strategies for small groups of students with special needs who required special accommodations and support.

Teaching Assignment:

  • Avon Avenue Elementary School
10
Group Home Supervisor (1991-1992)

Volunteers of America, Jersey City, NJ: Supervised daily operations, conducted staff training programs, and facilitated productive family meetings to support resident well-being.

Education & Certifications

M.A. in Administration & Supervision

St. Peter's College, Jersey City, NJ

B.A. in Sociology

Rutgers University, Newark, NJ

A.S. in Early Childhood Education

Essex County College, Newark, NJ

NJ Certifications

Standard Certificate Elementary School Teacher

Certificate of Eligibility for Principal/Supervisor


Key Skills

Classroom Strategies & Positive School Culture

Expert consultant in building and sustaining positive, high-performing classroom environments.

Engaging Workshop Presenter

Dynamic facilitator of workshops with compelling visual and audio content for diverse audiences.

Website & Presentation Design

Skilled creator of professional digital presentations and web-based learning resources.

Notable Accomplishments

A record of sustained excellence recognized by national leaders, district superintendents, and the communities served.

Newark's Teacher Of The Year 2011

Teacher of the Year (2011) recognition by notable education leaders Senator Cory Booker, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan (served 2009-2015), and NJ Congressman Donald Payne Sr. (served 1989-2012)

YouTube videos

NPS Teacher Of The Year 2015

Teacher of the Year (2015) honored by Newark Public Schools, pictured here with former NPS Superintendent Cami Anderson


Record-Breaking Student Success
  • Delivered two consecutive years of virtual literacy instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic to an 18-student cohort, including 8 students with disabilities. By October 2023, former students comprised 13 of the 15 Ivy Hill Elementary third graders who achieved proficiency on the New Jersey state reading assessment, accounting for the majority of the school's passing scores.(2023)
  • Achieved high ratings for effectiveness throughout 30+ years of career (1995-2023)
  • Guided students to rank among the district's top 3 schools for Grade 2 ELA achievement (2022)
  • Drove remarkable 85% student performance leap; secured school record for Grade 5 ELA state assessment scores (2017)
  • Certified: Newark Public School's LIFTT (Leadership Institute For Today and Tomorrow 2016)
  • Guided Grade 2 students to 94% reading on grade level, 83% exceeding grade level, and 100% meeting/exceeding benchmarks for district Grade 2 spelling assessment (2016)
  • Pioneered Core Knowledge Language Arts Model Classroom Grade 1 (2015)
  • Catapulted 80% of Grade 1 students to an elevation of 6 levels or more, 100% meeting/exceeding Grade 1 Math District Assessment (2012)


FAR Learning Solutions

Founder & Director, FAR Learning Solutions LLC (2025): I Established an independent educational consultancy and specialized literacy practice to bridge critical academic gaps through a proprietary, data-proven 5-Milestone Literacy Continuum and hands-on intervention modules.

farlearningsolutions.org

FAR Learning Solutions LLC

I am an award-winning educational consultant and private literacy specialist with 30+ years of pioneering results. I pair innovative learning frameworks with target-driven reading instruction to equip students with the exact skills, pacing, and execution needed to target higher scores on district a

H.E.R. Honor. Esteem. Resilience.

H.E.R. Honor. Esteem. Resilience. (2026) is a transformative social-emotional learning program dedicated to nurturing character, confidence, and community responsibility in young women during their most formative years. Through powerful mentorship and the bonds of sisterhood, participants discover what it truly means to be honorable citizens and compassionate leaders.

her-honor.org

H.E.R. : A Restorative Leadership & Life Skills Program for Girls

THE H.E.R. MENTORING INITIATIVE: HONOR • ESTEEM • RESILIENCE Developing Compassionate Leaders and Responsible Citizens True leadership is deliberately cultivated through powerful mentorship, unshakeable sisterhood, and restorative growth. The H.E.R. Program is an elite, 36-session transformati



CASA of Essex County NJ

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Appointment (2024): Selected as a trusted volunteer advocate for the Essex County Family Court System, fiercely protecting the educational and personal welfare of vulnerable youth at home, in the classroom, and in court hearings.

COCOA Educational Services

Founder & Director, COCOA Educational Services LLC (2021): I established an educational service company dedicated to fostering classroom organization, achievement and positive culture.

Warm Receptions

Co-Founder, Warm Receptions (2022): A faith-based volunteer organization dedicated to serving elderly community members and providing compassionate hospitality support to organizations in need.

Girls Mentor Us Club

Co-Founder, Girls Mentor Us, Thirteenth Avenue Elementary School, Newark, NJ (2007-2010): Established a mentorship program aimed at empowering young girls through leadership development, academic support, and positive self-identity.

  • Developed social-emotional skills
  • Facilitated mentoring relationships between students and staff
  • Promoted academic success, personal growth, and community involvement
  • Organized workshops, group discussions
  • Cultivated leadership, resilience, and peer support

References & Recommendations

Kariemah Muhammad has earned the trust and admiration of national leaders, district administrators, colleagues, and students throughout her distinguished career.

Cory Booker, NJ Senator

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Arne Duncan, US Secretary of Education (2009-2015)

"Ms. Muhammad's passion for education is apparent. She has proven herself to be hardworking and dedicated; going far beyond her call of duty to teach and mentor students and fellow colleagues. I have no doubt that Ms. Muhammad will continue to be an invaluable asset to Newark Public Schools and excel as a leader in education."

Cami Anderson, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools (2011-2015)

"Congratulations Ms. Muhammad on receiving the honor of Teacher of the Year! As we set a high bar for excellent teaching in Newark, you should feel proud of this accomplishment and more importantly, for the effect you have on our students every day. Thank you for your contributions and your sincere commitment to the children of Newark."

Roger Leon, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools

"Ms. Muhammad I just want to take this opportunity to recognize and congratulate you for the incredible work that you do, day in and day out, for our students. The honor you received is both prestigious and well-deserved. I have always believed that the students of Newark deserve nothing less than the best, and that is exactly what you have given them. For that, I sincerely thank you."

Mark A. Williams, Ed.D., Deputy Superintendent & Chief of School Management of PPSD

"I have known Ms. Muhammad professionally for over 25 years. During this time I have had the opportunity to see a talented and compassionate teaching professional, who takes time to plan and reach students from diverse social and academic backgrounds. She is a multi-awarded educator that has proven her ability to drive student success and being adept at creating and maintaining a positive culture with effective management in the classroom."

Leonard Kopacz, Former Principal/Supervisor

"I am Leonard Kopacz, and I had the privilege of serving as Ms. Muhammad's principal. During that time, she was quite simply one of my all-stars. Ms. Muhammad was a highly effective educator who consistently performed at a distinguished level, demonstrating both deep pedagogical knowledge and exceptional instructional practice.

Her effectiveness stemmed from her relentless work ethic, thorough preparation, and reflective thinking. She was often entrusted with challenging students who required extra support and care, and she handled these responsibilities with both skill and compassion. Her colleagues, fellow administrators, and parents held her in the highest regard, and her attendance and punctuality were impeccable. Ms. Muhammad's greatest strength was her ability to help all children succeed, ensuring their academic and social growth at their individual rates. I personally loved visiting her classroom, especially on days when she invited me to read to her students—those were truly special moments that only a teacher can fully appreciate.

Ms. Muhammad is articulate, practical, and, above all, deeply passionate about children and education."


Dr. S. Harrington, Former Principal/Supervisor

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Asjai Waters, Former Co-Teacher

"As a resource teacher, I have had the pleasure of working with Ms. Muhammad for four years. She is always prepared with a plan of action and collaborates for the benefit of students with ease. She is a dedicated, driven and supportive teacher who embraces inclusivity in regards to her students as well as colleagues. When teaching in the classroom, her presence is both captivating and comforting, making her connection with her students strong and trusting. She also has personable and consistent relationships with her students' families to keep them informed of their child's growth and performance which makes for a great partnership. Ms. Muhammad is a team player with a clear objective to be an ever-evolving, mindful teacher. Ms. Muhammad has an endearing and inspiring rapport with students and faculty alike. Ms. Muhammad brings with her an extensive teaching career, commitment to student growth, dedication to her teaching improvement and her considerate nature."

Treasure Bellamy, Former Student

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M. Higginbotham, CASA Executive Director

drive.google.com


Video Gallery. The Foundation of Learning: Relationship-Driven Success

Sustained academic growth begins with strong relationships. When scholars feel safe, supported, and challenged, learning accelerates. The examples below showcase authentic classroom instruction, collaborative learning, and evidence-based literacy practices that produce measurable results.

Successful Reading Strategies at Work

Take a look at Ms. Muhammad's 2nd graders, who are just 7 and 8 years old! You'll see them wonderfully demonstrating impressive reading comprehension and writing skills, using fluency and expression to confidently tackle a third-grade chapter book with practical strategies.

Google Docs

Grade_2_Readers

Make Learning Rewarding and Fun

Make learning a rewarding adventure! Positive reinforcement, through contests and games, boosts engagement, encourages goal-setting, and celebrates unique accomplishments, making learning a joyful journey for all!

Google Docs

Class_Spelling_Bee.mp4

Put Learners Center Stage

Spark children's imaginations and creativity! Turn lessons into exciting adventures by letting kids take center stage. Short plays and presentations are not just fun; they're powerful ways to learn new concepts and create unforgettable memories. Plus, imagine the pride and confidence they'll feel showcasing their talents and knowledge to their parents!

Google Docs

The_Water_Cycle.mp4

Google Docs

Knowledge is Power

Collaborative Learning

Did you know that children have their own unique way of communicating with each other? Encourage collaborative learning; it helps children understand concepts better, support each other, and fosters positive socialization, character development, and an environment where every voice is valued.

Google Docs

Collaborative_Learning.mp4

Reach Every Learner

Students learn in diverse ways (movement, listening, visuals, hands-on). Adapt lessons using varied modes and activities (visuals, discussion, student centers, independent practice) to ensure every student succeeds.

Google Docs

Different_Learning_Styles.mp4

How to Nurture Reading at a Young Age

Children are heavily influenced by peers and older siblings. Parents and teachers can encourage older children to be reading role models, fostering a love for reading in younger children. This video illustrates using this method to develop early literacy skills.

Google Docs

Nurturing_Readers.mp4

Restorative Practices

Embrace restorative practices to build strong bonds, resolve conflicts, and guide children in reflecting on their actions. This approach fosters connections, develops crucial social-emotional skills, and creates a caring community. Practical strategies are below!

Google Docs

Restorative_Practices.mp4

Building Relationships With Learners

Discover what truly excites your children—maybe it's a popular song or a trending dance that you weave into your lessons to build amazing connections! When your children see you bring that playful, joyful spirit into teaching, they'll be more eager to engage and excited to show up every single day.

Here's a fun example of teaching children the importance of school attendance.

Google Docs

Attendance_Dance_And_Song.mp4


Classroom Culture

Classroom culture is the shared values, norms, and behaviors that shape how students and teachers interact—helping children build confidence through independent choices, respectful collaboration, and staying engaged. A strong classroom culture is essential for effective management, successful learning center rotations, and a shared commitment to learning.

Google Docs

Classroom_Culture_.mp4