Résumé
Thomas Starr
Instructional Designer & Educator
Instructional designer at The DiSTI Corporation, creating learning experiences for technical, simulation-based training. Brings 10+ years of classroom teaching grounded in data-driven, differentiated instruction, STEM program design, and the thoughtful use of AI-adaptive tools for diverse learners. Holds an M.S. in Applied Learning Sciences and is pursuing an Ed.D. in Instructional Design.
Open to Relocation Within the U.S.Contact
Deltona, FL
Education
Ed.D. Instructional Design
National University
In Progress
M.S. Applied Learning Sciences
University of Miami
Certifications
Florida State Education Cert.
Reading Endorsed
ESOL Endorsed
Professional Development
Google Certified Educator
Canva Education
AWS Skill Builder (In Progress)
Core Skills
ADDIE
SAM
Backward Design (UbD)
Mayer’s Multimedia Principles
UDL
ARCS Model
Curriculum Design
Formative Assessment
Accessible / DEI Design
Articulate 360 (Storyline & Rise)
WCAG 2.1
AI-Adaptive EdTech
Differentiated Instruction
Reading Intervention (SIPPS)
STEM Integration
ESOL
Work Experience
The DiSTI Corporation
2026 – Present
Instructional Designer
- Design and develop instructional content and learning experiences for technical, simulation-based training products.
- Apply evidence-based learning design — backward design, cognitive load management, and multimedia principles — to complex subject matter.
- Collaborate with subject-matter experts and product teams to translate technical requirements into clear, effective learning.
City Church Academy
2024 – 2026
Fifth Grade Teacher / STEM Coordinator
- Delivered differentiated instruction across core subjects, integrating visual routines, hands-on STEM activities, and AI-adaptive learning tools to support diverse learners.
- Designed and coordinated schoolwide STEM programming, overseeing curriculum development, project-based units, and cross-grade collaboration for 100+ students.
- Led targeted small-group reading intervention using data-driven strategies to strengthen phonics, fluency, and comprehension; monitored progress through ongoing formative assessments.
Volusia County Public Schools
2015 – 2024
Second Grade Teacher
- Delivered differentiated small-group instruction and facilitated schoolwide walk-to-intervention reading blocks, providing targeted Tier 2 support for students working toward grade-level proficiency.
- Implemented SIPPS phonics intervention with fidelity, producing measurable gains in decoding, fluency, and foundational literacy skills among below-level readers.
- Maintained detailed progress monitoring records, using assessment data to adjust instruction and communicate student growth with families and instructional leadership.