Adaptable, Proficient, and Dynamic are three words I'd pick to describe myself. I am a results-driven, mature, former elementary school teacher, education administrator, adjunct professor, guest lecturer, and business executive with 45 years of experience. I am now on a mission to help non-native English speakers, acquire or refine their vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening, and conversation skills
John De Leo grew up in Waterbury, Connecticut, and received his Bachelor of Arts in History and Philosophy from Saint Bonaventure University, New York. In addition, John earned a Master of Science Degree in Education and a Sixth Year Graduate Diploma in Professional Education from Southern Connecticut State University.
In the first years following his undergraduate degree, John worked as an elementary school teacher. Concurrently attended graduate school where his course of study included child development and learning, pedagogy and teaching methods, as well as school administration management.
After that, he worked as a Consultant in the Connecticut State Department of Health, preparing regulations governing the care, treatment, and training of children in care settings.
Apart from his regulatory role, John joined the evening faculty at Naugatuck Valley Community College (formerly Mattatuck) as an adjunct Professor of Psychology. In addition to teaching students just out of high school, working adults were often the majority on his class roster, motivated to matriculate for an Associate Degree to change careers or progress in their present job.
In 1976, John became a seminar, workshop, and training program professional. Designing and constructing on-demand courses and programs for educators and business and human services professionals. Course and seminar offerings included instruction in culture and change management, conflict resolution and teaming - diversity training, and workplace communication.
Between 1998 and 2011 John, together with architect contractor Cork Chicota, embarked on a path of social entrepreneurship, founding a company to offer turn-key solutions to building, marketing, and creating senior living facilities.

As CEO, John has been interviewed for his work with the Shaman Development Group by a variety of publications and media outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and The New York Times.