Title: Teacher and Para-Coach
Company: Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School
Location: Collingdale, Pennsylvania, United States
Angela Scott-Alvarado, teacher and para-coach at the Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for dedication, achievements, and leadership in education.
Ms. Scott-Alvarado has dedicated over 15 years to the field of education, establishing herself as an expert in teaching reading. Currently, she serves as a teacher and para-coach at the Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School, where she has been active in this capacity since 2024. In this role, Ms. Scott-Alvarado teaches English language arts to third graders and mentors paraprofessionals to enhance instructional practices and student outcomes. Her commitment to student growth is evident in her ability to help advanced students progress from reading at a third-grade level to a sixth- or seventh-grade level, which she considers her most significant career achievement.
Located in Philadelphia, where Ms. Scott-Alvarado was born and raised, the Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School is recognized as one of the city’s first charter schools and first African-centered charter school. The school was founded by John Skief and was named Harambee Institute to represent the Harambee Way, which means educating the whole child. As such, the institute focuses on a culture-based value system where students develop self-respect, self-reliance, citizenship, positive communication and problem-solving skills.
From 2020 to 2024, Ms. Scott-Alvarado was a third-grade teacher at her charter school. During this time, she focused on fostering a supportive learning environment and encouraging students to reach their full potential. Between 2015 and 2019, she expanded her responsibilities by becoming a mentor and cluster leader while continuing her teaching duties. This experience allowed Ms. Scott-Alvarado to guide fellow educators and contribute to the school’s academic community.
Ms. Scott-Alvarado’s career began at West Oak Lane Charter School, where she worked as a paraprofessional in 2006 before transitioning to a third-grade teaching position from 2012 to 2015. Her early experiences in education laid the foundation for her expertise in teaching reading and her dedication to student success.
In preparation for her career in this sector, Ms. Scott-Alvarado received a Bachelor of Arts in communications in 2006 and a Master of Arts in elementary education in 2012 from Eastern University. These educational achievements have been instrumental in her professional development, providing her with the skills necessary to excel in her field. Ms. Scott-Alvarado attributes much of her success to the mentorship of Charlotte Ziegler, a former principal who played a pivotal role in her career advancement.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Scott-Alvarado is actively involved in civic-minded organizations as a donor to several diabetes charities. Giving back to worthy causes has been very rewarding for her.
Ms. Scott-Alvarado’s dedication to education was recognized when she received the Teacher of the Year award from Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School in 2018. This accolade is a testament to her hard work and dedication to advancing education at the school.
Eager for the future, Ms. Scott-Alvarado plans to further her education by taking certification courses for Wilson Language Training’s phonics program. She is also considering pursuing a doctorate in her field. Inspired by a conversation with her father, Ms. Scott-Alvarado aims to honor his memory by becoming her family’s first “Dr. Scott” and continuing a legacy of academic excellence. Ultimately, her goal is to remain committed to lifelong learning and making a positive impact on those around her.
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