Objective
To work as a child advocate and speaker. To continue to write non-fiction books and articles, novels, stories, for both adults and children. To continue to conduct research on issues relating to the affects of child abuse neglect.

Summary
Team oriented, hard-working individual with leadership skills. Training and education includes emphasis on science, education and pastoral ministry. Willing to learn independently. Self-driven, yet cooperative. Conscientious and enjoys a challenge. Dedicated and prolific writer working towards major publication.

Education
Gonzaga University 2001-Present
Currently taking courses in a Ph.D. Program in Leadership Studies Spokane, WA

The Center for Organizational Reform (COR) 2002-Present
Currently taking Leadership Seminars Spokane, WA

Lewis-Clark State College 2002-Present
Courses in Poetry & Creative Writing Coeur d’Alene, ID

Eastern Washington 2003
University Courses in Creative Writing Spokane, WA

Gonzaga University May 2001
M.A. Degree in Pastoral Ministry Spokane, WA

University of Iowa 1976-1980
Post-graduate classes Iowa City, IA

College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University 1971-1975
B.S. in Natural Sciences and minors in Education and Psychology
 

Work Experience
Substitute Teacher 2001- Present
Spokane Valley Schools/Central Valley School District 356 Spokane, WA

Freelance Writer & Book Author 1999-Present
Karen Jean Matsko Hood, Writer, Inc. Veradale, WA

Marketing and Copywriter 1980- Present
Dr. James G. Hood, DDS, MA, PS Veradale, WA

Newsletter and Website Publisher 1998-Present
Artistic Design & Internet Marketing, Inc. Veradale, WA

International Magazine Publisher 1994-Present
Icelandic Horse & Travel Magazine Veradale, WA

Icelandic Horse & Farm Promoter 1998-Present
Icelandic Horse Acres, Inc. Greenacres, WA

Teacher of the Disabled 1978-1980
Children’s Hospital University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa

High School Science & Math Teacher 1975-1976
St. Dunstan’s Episcopal School St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Junior High Science Teacher 1975-1976
St. Croix Public School System
 

Volunteer Activities
Guardian ad Litem and Court Appointed Special Advocate Volunteer (CASA) for abused and neglected children in the juvenile court system, Women and Children’s Rights Advocate, Foster Children Advocate, Promoter of Literacy for adults and children, Social Justice Committee, Pastoral Ministry, Church Choir, 4-H Leader and Volunteer, Lay Ministry, Girl Scout leader and Campfire leader.


Skills
Research, Writing, Teaching, Speaking, Business Marketing, Creative Publishing, Photography, Website Design


Interests
Family Life & Motherhood – Mother of 9 Children and Foster Children, Children’s Advocate, Pastoral Ministry, Children, Women’s Rights, Family Life, Equality and Social Justice, Science, Nature, Environment, Horses, Animals, Horticulture, Gardening, Choir, Singing, Reading, Writing, Learning, Respect for the Diversity of Life.