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Welcome to my website! My name is Spencer Virden. I earned my bachelor's degree in English and Secondary Education from Central Washington University, from which I graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2019. I then worked to earn my master's degree in Applied Linguistics with a focus in Bilingual Studies from the University of Massachusetts Boston, from which I earned Summa Cum Laude in 2021. 

I have had the opportunity to participate in many forms of teaching. When I was still an undergraduate student, I participated in a study abroad program in Ireland, where I worked with inner-city youth to help bridge the opportunity gap. From that experience, I have worked in an Elementary school (Primary), Middle School (Secondary), and High School (Secondary). I worked as an intern student teacher at Newport Hills Elementary in Bellevue, Washington. I have also worked at Kamiakan Middle School in Totem Lake, Washington, Totem Middle School (Now called Evergreen Middle School) in Kent, Washington, and Lindbergh Senior High School in Renton, Washington. 

Since 2022, I have supported and led educational student tours across the world, including Italy, Greece, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Portugal, France, England, and Japan! This opportunity has aided in my pursuit to bridge connections between the work I do within the classroom to the real world. Giving students this opportunity and planning these trips not only opens up doors of opportunity for students, allowing them to see various worldly perspectives and beliefs and bring that back with them into their micro and macro systems, it has also taught me valuable leadership qualities that far expand beyond the classroom and the school itself.

I am AVID and PBL trained, and in my first year of teaching, I earned teacher of the month awards within my district. I have been recognized as a protector of SEL practices within the classroom and am actively looking to grow in my pedagogy. 

Currently, I am working toward becoming TESOL/TEFL certified to support students who are learning English as a second language.

Want to learn more?

  • 📕 GSA Advisor 2019-2020, 2021-2022

    📕 ASB Advisor 2024-2026

    📕 Eagle Crew (Link Crew) Advisor 2021-2026

    📕 SEL Awarded Teacher 2022 (Social-Emotional Learning)

    📕 Teacher of the Month November 2019

    📕 Nominated Leadership Advisor of the Year 2024-2025

    📕 Climate Committee Member 2021-2022

    📕 Equity and Culturally Responsive Teaching Book Club Leader 2019-2020

    📕 AVID Site Team Lead 2019-2020 (Created PD for Staff)

  • PBL Trained and Certified -Napa Valley 2021

    AVID Trained -Online Conference 2020

    Teaching Writing to the Writer -Columbia Teaching Institute 2023

    Inquiry by Design Trained -Online Conference 2021-2022

    Built and Implemented 6th Grade English Curriculum - Federal Way Public Schools 2020

    Built and Implemented Sophomore Honors English Curriculum -Renton School District 2023

  • Teaching Philosophy

    As an educator, my foremost commitment is to build authentic relationships with students, fostering a classroom community grounded in trust, mutual respect, and open communication. I believe that meaningful learning occurs when students feel seen, valued, and represented within the curriculum—regardless of the subject matter or their background.

    My approach emphasizes restorative practices rather than punitive measures, ensuring that consequences for behavior are logical, fair, and delivered with care. I strive to address challenges in a way that maintains dignity, safeguards student agency, and encourages reflection and growth. Education should not simply enforce rules but help students develop the skills to navigate conflict, make responsible choices, and learn from their experiences.

    I am dedicated to meeting students where they are, acknowledging and addressing bias and privilege, and providing equitable opportunities for every learner to succeed. Whether teaching literature, media studies, or career exploration, I design lessons that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and personal connection. My goal is for students to leave my classroom not only more knowledgeable, but also more confident in their voice, more aware of their impact, and more prepared to engage meaningfully with the world around them.

    Why Work With Me

    I bring a unique combination of scholarly expertise, creative curriculum design, and relationship-centered teaching that consistently engages and inspires learners. My experience spans diverse subjects—from Honors English and Film Studies to Marketing Exploration and Podcast Production—allowing me to adapt quickly and bring interdisciplinary depth to any project.

    I excel at building trust and fostering inclusive environments where all voices are heard, making me a strong collaborator and an asset to any team. With a proven ability to manage challenges through restorative practices and clear communication, I maintain a focus on solutions that honor both individual dignity and group goals. Whether in a leadership role or as a contributing partner, I approach every endeavor with professionalism, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to meaningful, measurable results.