Karen V. Buffalo is an experienced educator seeking a leadership position in instruction. She has over 15 years of experience in roles such as assistant principal, elementary school counselor, and teacher. She holds advanced degrees in education and certifications in school administration, counseling, and project-based learning coaching. Her areas of expertise include instructional leadership, school transformation, ESOL education, and data-driven instruction. She currently serves as an assistant principal in Sumter, South Carolina developing educational programs and transforming school culture.

1. Karen V. Buffalo ​ ​ Sumter, SC 29154- 803-847-4325 Email:karen.buffalo@yahoo.com
KEY AREAS OF EXPERTISE
➔ Instructional Leadership
➔ School Transformation
➔ Facilitative Coaching
➔ ESOL (English As a Second Language)
➔ Educational Technology
➔ Response to Intervention
➔ Data/ Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Assessments
EDUCATION/CREDENTIALS
Bachelor of Arts Early Childhood Education, ​Claflin University, Orangeburg, SC
Masters of Education Elementary/Secondary Counselor Education, ​South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC
Educational Specialist School Administration/Educational Leadership, ​Cambridge College, Cambridge, MA
Elementary Principal/Assistant Principal Certification, Elementary/Secondary School Counselor, PreK-3rd
Certification, Project Based Learning Certification, Professional Learning Communities Coach Certification
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT Current
Elementary Assistant Principal
Developing and maintaining an effective educational program consistent with State and Federal guidelines and
the philosophy, policies and goals of the School Board. Assisting the principal in the transformation of school
culture into a results-oriented collaborative learning community. Provide leadership and oversight to budget
planning and process operations. Plans and ensures the quality and fidelity of services provided to gifted and
talented students as well as students will learning disabilities.
DUKE UNIVERSITY Seasonal (Summer 2016)
On-Site Director (Duke Talent Identification Program)
Served as the chief administrator of the program for 7th and 8th grade gifted and talented students. I was
responsible for the smooth and efficient program operations. Directly supervised the on-site administrative staff,
plans and implements staff training and orientation, evaluated and approved instructional and residential expense
requests, managed petty cash, and reviewed student and staff disciplinary situations.
RICHLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO/CLARENDON SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO July 2014-June 2015
Enterprise Learning Coach
Facilitated instructional innovation strategies to district leaders, principals and teachers. Identified targeted
analytical goals to guide the strategic planning process for innovative initiatives. Provided professional
development training in the processes of Project Based Learning and PLC’s (Professional Learning
Communities). Utilized knowledge, perceptions and attitude surveys to evaluate successful trends in school-wide
STEM/STEAM initiatives.

2. Karen V. Buffalo ​ ​ Sumter, SC 29154- 803-847-4325 Email:karen.buffalo@yahoo.com
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT July 2012-June 2014
Elementary Assistant Principal
Coordinated the Title I after school tutoring program for ESOL (English as a Second Language)
students. Implemented best practices and research based curriculum to bridge the gap of language
barriers that can impede the learning process. Initiated and led the Response to
Intervention/Multi-System Support Services model to increase the academic performance within a Title
I School. Facilitated workshops on various topics, including classroom management, and cultural
diversity.
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT August 2011- June 2012
Elementary School Counselor
Provided responsive services to individual and small groups of students on academic and personal
concerns. Provided system support to strengthen the efforts of teachers, staff, parents and other
members of the community.
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT August 2008-June 2011
Response to Intervention Coordinator
Implemented scientifically based reading research program (Balanced Literacy, Read Naturally, and
Project Read) for young children. Collaborated with the Director of Special Education, Building
Administrators, School Psychologists, Director of Curriculum and Assessment, and to facilitate
eligibility for special education.
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT August 2007-June 2008
Second Grade Teacher
Developed long-range goals that apply to South Carolina’s standards of learning in the academic areas
of math, science, social studies, health and language arts. Managed permanent records, report cards and
formative assessments.
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT 17 August 2006-June 2007
Kindergarten Teacher
Planned, prepared, evaluated, and created lessons for kindergarteners. Administered graded
assignments.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS September 2005-June 2006
Preschool Special Needs Teacher
Served as a consultant and provider of direct services to implement individual educational plans for 5
year olds with disabilities in a variety of settings, including the classroom, and the child’s home.

3. Karen V. Buffalo ​ ​ Sumter, SC 29154- 803-847-4325 Email:karen.buffalo@yahoo.com
NORTHERN TERRITORY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION April 2004- July 2005
Special Needs Teacher (Severe Cognitive)
Employed special educational strategies and techniques during instruction to improve the development
of sensory and perceptual motor skills, language, cognition, and memory. Instructed students in
academic subjects using a variety of techniques to reinforce learning and to meet students’ varying
needs and interests.
REFERENCES
1. Suzanna Foley, Principal
251 Alice Drive
Sumter, SC 29150
(803) 775-0857 (work)
(803) 803-236-1651 (cell)
Email: suzanna.foley@sumterschools.net
2. Trevor Ivey, Assistant Principal
40 Miller Rd
Sumter, SC 29150
(803) 316-7849 (cell)
(803) 775-0821 (work)
Email: trevor.ivey@sumterschools.net