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Christopher Hammer
Founder at Charlala, World Languages Curriculum Specialist
Professional Background
Christopher Hammer possesses a dynamic educational background and a diverse career path that showcases his commitment to education and technology. He is best known for his role as the founder of Charlala, LLC, where he brings together his passions for learning and digital engagement. In the past, he excelled as a World Languages Curriculum Specialist and Spanish Teacher for Park Ridge School District 64, where he crafted innovative learning experiences that nurtured student growth in language acquisition. His expertise in curriculum development is built upon a solid foundation created during his tenure as a Teaching Assistant at Township High School District 211. Furthermore, his hands-on engagement with students began during his student teaching experience at McLean County Unit 5 School District, where he embraced the role of an educator and mentor with enthusiasm.
Education and Achievements
Christopher's educational journey has provided him with a robust skill set tailored for the modern educational landscape. He earned his Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Learning and Technology from Western Governors University, a program that articulates the intersection of technological innovations and pedagogy. This advanced education equips him to lead in both traditional and digital educational environments.
Before obtaining his Master’s, Christopher laid the groundwork for his expertise in languages through a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Hispanic Studies and Spanish Language Education (K-12) from Illinois Wesleyan University. His studies encompassed various cultural and linguistic dimensions, which not only strengthened his linguistic abilities but also deepened his appreciation for the Spanish-speaking world.
In addition to his undergraduate education, Christopher broadened his horizons by studying Hispanic Studies at Universidad Complutense de Madrid, where he immersed himself in the rich cultural heritage of Spain. This invaluable experience not only advanced his language skills but also enriched his cultural understanding—vital components for an educator teaching in multicultural settings.
His contributions extend beyond traditional education. His role as a U.S. Operations Restaurant Technology Intern at McDonald's Corporation allowed him to integrate his educational insights with technology in a large corporate setting, further diversifying his skill set. This experience has empowered him to understand the operational nuances of technology as applied in the business sector.
Additional Professional Experience
Christopher’s career reflects his dedication to service and community, which is evident from his early positions. He held roles that contributed to his essential development as a responsible professional, from a Diet Aide at Northwest Community Hospital, which taught him the importance of health and wellness, to a Money Counter at ARAMARK, where he sharpened his organizational skills. His sales associate experiences at Knupper Nursery and Landscape provided him with customer service skills that enhance his interpersonal communication, critical for teaching environments.
Throughout his varied career, Christopher has maintained his dedication to his students and the broader educational community. His experiences as a Teaching Assistant in multiple settings, including Colegio Público Las Acacias, have equipped him with unique insights into the teaching-learning process, allowing him to adapt his strategies to diverse student needs. Additionally, working as a secretarial assistant at St. Mary's Services has further honed his administrative and organizational prowess, vital in today’s educational institutions.
Achievements
To summarize, Christopher Hammer’s trajectory in education highlights a multifaceted approach to learning and teaching. He is a proven leader in educational technologies, a passionate trainer of future generations, and an advocate for cultural awareness through language. His diverse educational and professional experiences uniquely position him to engage with students in transformative and meaningful ways, embodying the essence of a modern educator. Christopher's journey is a testament to the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of education.
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