Abigail Gregus
New Lenox,IL
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Special Education major at Loyola University Chicago with extensive experience supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs. Strong background in life skills instruction, classroom adaptation, and building meaningful student relationships. Known for maintaining a calm, supportive classroom environment while effectively managing a wide range of behaviors. Committed to fostering independence, inclusion, and student success across educational settings.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Student Teacher
Niles North High School
Skokie, IL
08.2025 - 05.2026
- Facilitated development of individualized education plans tailored to diverse student needs.
- Partnered with teachers to develop and implement effective classroom management techniques.
- Adapted instructional materials to accommodate varying learning styles and abilities.
- Communicated effectively with parents regarding student performance and behavior updates.
- Improved student comprehension through the use of visual aids, hands-on activities, and real-world examples.
- Provided one-on-one support to students during class time, ensuring they understood key concepts and stayed engaged in lessons.
Field Observer
Chicago Public Schools CPS
Chicago, IL
08.2022 - 05.2025
- Completed 3+ years of classroom field experience across multiple elementary and secondary schools within Chicago Public Schools
- Observed and supported instruction in diverse classroom settings, including co-taught, inclusion, self-contained, and general education environments
- Gained experience across grade levels (K–12), adapting to different student needs and classroom structures
- Progressed from classroom observation to active participation, assisting teachers with instruction and classroom management
- Provided one-on-one and small group support to students to reinforce learning and engagement
- Collaborated with teachers and staff to support diverse learners, including students with special needs
Summer Camp Counselor
Trinity Lutheran Academy
Burr Ridge, IL
06.2023 - 07.2024
- Supervised and ensured the safety and well-being of children in a structured camp environment
- Built supportive relationships with campers, promoting positive social interactions and inclusion
- Guided students in developing social-emotional skills such as sharing, cooperation, and self-regulation
- Supported children with behavioral and emotional needs, using patience and positive reinforcement strategies
- Planned and led engaging indoor and outdoor activities, with a focus on hands-on learning experiences
- Adapted activities to meet the diverse needs and ability levels of participants
- Maintained a clean, organized, and structured environment to support student success
- Collaborated with staff to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive camp community
Park District Assistant
New Lenox Park District
New Lenox, IL
08.2021 - 08.2022
- Supervised youth participants in gym, field house, and community program settings, ensuring a safe, structured, and inclusive environment
- Built positive relationships with children of diverse backgrounds and abilities, supporting engagement in recreational activities
- Monitored behavior and reinforced expectations to promote respectful and appropriate conduct
- Assisted individuals one-on-one when needed to support participation and understanding of activities
- Adapted activities and provided support to meet varying needs and ability levels
- Managed check-in procedures and maintained accurate attendance records
- Handled program fees and maintained organized, accurate financial records
- Collaborated with staff to plan and implement community events and youth programming
Special Education Summer School Teacher Helper
Southern Will Co Coop Spec Ed
Joliet, IL
06.2020 - 07.2022
- Developed tailored educational approaches to foster academic development and support diverse learning needs.
- Facilitated hands-on support for various activities.
- Monitored and enforced safety guidelines during bus boarding and alighting procedures.
- Established and maintained a clean and organized environment to enhance student learning experiences.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Loyola University of Chicago
Chicago, IL05-2026
Skills
- Inclusive education
- Positive reinforcement
- Emotional support
- Collaborative teaching
- Visual supports
- Collaborative teamwork
- Relationship building
Certification
- Honor Roll 2023-2026
- Dean's List 2024-2026
- ESL Endorsement
- LBS1 Special Education Endorsement
Timeline
Special Education Student Teacher
Niles North High School
08.2025 - 05.2026
Summer Camp Counselor
Trinity Lutheran Academy
06.2023 - 07.2024
Field Observer
Chicago Public Schools CPS
08.2022 - 05.2025
Park District Assistant
New Lenox Park District
08.2021 - 08.2022
Special Education Summer School Teacher Helper
Southern Will Co Coop Spec Ed
06.2020 - 07.2022
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Loyola University of Chicago