Hello! I am Cody Dalton, a PhD student and Graduate Teaching Assistant in Curriculum and Instruction for History and Social Science Education at Virginia Tech. Before pursuing my doctorate, I taught high school history in a Virginia Title 1 public school, specializing in World History and AP Psychology. I have a passion for curriculum development, research, and finding new ways to teach history.
In addition to education, I produce the podcasts Jeff Has Cool Friends and NERD!, ensuring high-quality production and fast turnaround.
Resume
Education
Virginia Tech – Blacksburg, VA Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Curriculum & Instruction: History and Social Studies – Current
South College – Knoxville, TN Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Higher Education Leadership – Expected 2025
Averett University – Danville, VA Graduate Certificate in Gifted Education – Expected 2025
American College of Education – Indianapolis, IN Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Literacy
Liberty University – Lynchburg, VA Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in History
Certifications
Virginia Postgraduate Professional Teaching License: History & Social Science (6–12), Reading Specialist (Provisional)
Education Experience
Higher Education
Virginia Tech – Blacksburg, VA
August 2025 – Present
Graduate Teaching Assistant and Preservice Teacher Supervisor
Mentoring of preservice teachers in culturally sustaining instructional design and teaching practice
Providing feedback on lesson plans and in-field teaching demonstrations
Managing preservice social studies teachers' fulfillment of state teaching licensure requirements
Building partnerships between cooperating teachers, preservice teachers, and the VT teacher prep program
Evaluating teacher candidates for competency in InTASC teaching standards
Secondary Education
Danville Public Schools – Danville, VA
2021 – 2025
Social Studies and AP Psychology Teacher
Develop and deliver curriculum for World History and AP Psychology aligned with state standards and AP frameworks.
Integrate Global Citizenship Education concepts to promote student awareness of international issues, ethics, and cultural competency.
Pilot the use of Generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, AI tours) to support historical inquiry, critical thinking, and multimedia student projects.
Facilitate hybrid, virtual, and face-to-face instruction with a strong emphasis on differentiation and equity.
Mentor peers on using Canvas, Performance Matters, and instructional technology to enhance learning outcomes.
Technology Experience
Jeff Has Cool Friends & NERD! Podcasts – Remote/Los Angeles, CA
2024 – Present
Podcast Producer and Instructional Media Consultant
Produce educational and professional content using Adobe Audition and Descript.
Support digital storytelling and learning strategies through podcasting and interview-based formats.
Leverage media production experience to enhance instructional design projects and digital course assets.
Professional Skills
Curriculum Design & Instructional Innovation
AI-Enhanced Learning Design
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Canvas LMS, Google Classroom, Screencastify, OBS
Benchmark Analysis & SOL Data Interpretation
Student-Centered Coaching and Professional Development
Culturally Responsive Instruction
Recognitions/Awards
Distinguished Teacher - George Washington High School 2024/2025
National History Day Competition Champion Coach for Danville Public Schools 2024/2025
Special Educator - George Washington High School 2024/2025
National History Day Competition Champion Coach for Danville Public Schools 2023/2024
Distinguished Teacher - George Washington High School 2023/2024