Zachary Strand
Lafayette
Summary
Dynamic educational leader with expertise in choral and theater program direction, dedicated to enhancing student engagement and cultivating high-performing teams. Known for inclusive environments and integrating innovative teaching methodologies that inspire creativity and collaboration. Skilled in public speaking and community building, contributing to enriched educational experiences across the district. Results-driven achiever with a proven track record of exceeding targets, leveraging strategic thinking and practical experience to implement impactful solutions that elevate organizational performance.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Teaching and Leading
Centaurus High School
08.2024 - Current
- Choir Director - Implemented strategic recruitment and fundraising efforts, successfully increasing choir enrollment and budget while securing top placement in first competitive event.
- Theater Director - Developed collaborative initiatives with ILC program to expand student engagement in theater arts, as well as setting a program record for audience attendance for recent production.
- Fall 2024 Assistant Football Coach - Cultivated teamwork and discipline among student athletes, resulting in improved team cohesion. Captured and analyzed game footage to identify areas for performance improvement. Partnered with coaching staff to drive player development initiatives.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
Teaching and Leading
Angevine Middle School
07.2019 - Current
- Created and delivered engaging educational materials for choir, music theory, musical theater, and health classes to enhance student learning experiences.
- Facilitated initiatives in role as PBIS Co-Coordinator and as a member of the School Leadership Team, focusing on improving school culture and supporting student wellness.
- Developed and implemented strategies for professional development, supporting staff excellence and leadership among BVSD choral directors.
Principal Licensure Program
CCU and Angevine Middle School
12.2019 - 05.2020
- Created a portfolio of work in research, PD, finance, data, etc.
- 150+ hours of fieldwork.
- 4.0 GPA Master's in Educational Leadership
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
Teaching and Leading
Fairview High School
07.2017 - 04.2019
- Developed and executed plans that resulted in a fourfold increase in student council funding, a twofold rise in school dance attendance, and a tenfold reduction in alcohol tickets during initial year as sponsor.
- Achieved increased student participation in choir through engaging rehearsals and performances. Drove student council initiatives that promoted community involvement and leadership development. Enhanced understanding of music theory and rock 'n' roll history, resulting in improved student performance and appreciation for music.
- Directed and coordinated school productions for music and theater department.
- Assisted in curriculum development as a council member. Supported safety initiatives as department safety manager. Guided student council activities as a sponsor during 2017-2018. Coached mascot team to enhance school spirit.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
Education
Master of Education: - Educational Leadership
CCU College of Adult And Graduate Studies
12-2025
Master of Arts - Music Education: Choral Conducting
University of Colorado - Boulder
05-2022
Master of Arts - Educational Studies: Education Policy
The Ohio State University
12-2016
Bachelor of Music Education - Choral Education
University of Colorado - Boulder
05-2015
Skills
- Team leadership
- Student Engagement
- Collaborative team development
- Problem-Solving
- Professional Development
- Engaging presentation skills
- Conflict Resolution
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Teamwork and collaboration
Accomplishments
- Supervised multiple student teachers through CU Boulder and BoulderTEC
- Judith Richardson-Waterman Scholarship, Charles Byers Choral Music Education Scholarship, and SALT in Schools Scholarship awards recipient.
- Lafayette Arts in Education Grant Recipient
- Two time Gold Elite Ranking earned at Elitch Garden's Music Festival
Affiliations
- Active member of National Association for Music Educators 8 years
Certification
- First Aid/CPR
- CO Professional Teaching License with Music K-12 Endorsement
- Initial Principal License
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Limited
Timeline
Teaching and Leading
Centaurus High School
08.2024 - Current
Principal Licensure Program
CCU and Angevine Middle School
12.2019 - 05.2020
Teaching and Leading
Angevine Middle School
07.2019 - Current
Teaching and Leading
Fairview High School
07.2017 - 04.2019
Master of Education: - Educational Leadership
CCU College of Adult And Graduate Studies
Master of Arts - Music Education: Choral Conducting
University of Colorado - Boulder
Master of Arts - Educational Studies: Education Policy
The Ohio State University
Bachelor of Music Education - Choral Education
University of Colorado - Boulder
Leadership Development Opportunities
- A3AP - Aspiring assistant principal professional development cohort via BVSD
- Principal Internship with CCU and Angevine Middle School
- BVSD Secondary Choral Teacher Leader
- Angevine CO-PBIS Leader 2023-2025
- Angevine School Leadership Team Member 2021-2024
- Leadership Development Program Academy - by Jeff Janssen via University of Colorado
Additional Experience
- University of Colorado - Assistant Mascot Coach
- The Ohio State University - Assistant Mascot Coach
- University of Ohio State - Graduate Research Assistant