Alejandra Aguilar
Garfield
Summary
I am committed to fostering a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. As an educator, my goal is to foster a love for learning by tailoring instruction to meet the diverse needs of each child, whether through differentiated lessons, collaborative activities, or using technology to enhance engagement. I am deeply committed to building strong relationships with my students and their families, especially within a bilingual community, to ensure that every student’s unique background and strengths are celebrated. By integrating social-emotional learning and promoting critical thinking, I aim to not only help students achieve academically but also develop as compassionate, confident individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
2nd Grade Teacher
ILearn Schools
08.2024 - Current
- Create weekly cross-curricular lesson planning across all core subjects (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies), taking lead roles throughout the year and ensuring standards-aligned, engaging instruction using the Savvas curriculum. Instruct phonics daily using the UFLI Foundations program to build strong early literacy skills.
- Co-develop original, high-quality ELA content with the 2nd grade team, incorporating diverse texts and writing structures that fostered literacy, creativity, and voice in young learners.
- Analyze i-Ready diagnostic data (administered 3x annually) to identify growth areas and tailor instruction for students who meet a wide range of learning needs and readiness levels; continuously adjust instruction to meet individual learning goals.
- Differentiate instruction daily for English Language Learners (ESL), students needing extra support, and students who are exceeding the standards; modify assignments, assessments, and classroom structures to ensure every student has access to rigorous, meaningful learning.
- Maintain high expectations and rigor, creating a learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and empowered—socially, emotionally, and academically.
- Build strong bilingual family partnerships in a predominantly Hispanic community by providing regular Spanish-language communication via Class Dojo, home visits, phone calls, and personalized updates on student progress, classroom events, and learning highlights.
- Create a culturally responsive classroom where students’ identities, traditions, and experiences are celebrated and woven into lessons, class discussions, and community projects.
- Consistently collaborate with an instructional coach to strengthen classroom management and instructional strategies, and actively participated in weekly district-wide PLCs with fellow 2nd grade educators to share best practices and align instruction across campuses.
- Volunteer at school-wide community events, conduct home visits, and attend students' sports events to deepen connections and foster a strong classroom community.
- Utilize AI tools (Magic School AI Certified Levels 1–3) to create engaging instructional materials, design assessments and rubrics, and streamline planning; developed visually engaging PowerPoint presentations to enhance student understanding.
4th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher
ILearn Schools
08.2023 - 08.2024
- Designed and executed comprehensive ELA and Social Studies instruction, including novel studies, writing workshops, vocabulary development, and targeted reading comprehension strategies aligned to NJSLA state assessments.
- Planned and differentiated daily instruction for a diverse classroom of learners, including ESL students and students performing across a wide academic spectrum; modified lessons and assessments to meet varied needs and ensure equitable access to curriculum.
- Created original assessments, projects, and instructional materials, including interactive PowerPoint presentations and collaborative activities that fostered critical thinking and student engagement.
- Prepared students for the NJSLA state assessment by integrating targeted test-taking strategies, reading stamina-building exercises, and standards-aligned practice into daily instruction, helping students approach the exam with confidence and skill.
- Integrated student cultures and identities into lesson content to build relevance, inclusivity, and engagement; led discussions and projects that reflected students’ lived experiences and celebrated diversity.
- Maintained accurate records of academic performance using both physical and digital gradebooks; provided timely, specific feedback to students on written work and class participation to promote growth and accountability.
- Attended professional development workshops on classroom management, differentiated instruction, and culturally responsive teaching; consistently sought opportunities to improve teaching practices and student outcomes.
- Effectively utilized AI tools (Magic School AI Certified Levels 1–3) to enhance lesson planning, create custom rubrics, and innovate classroom instruction with tech-forward strategies.
1st Grade Teacher
St Leo’s School
10.2022 - 06.2023
- Taught core subjects including Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Religion in a faith-based environment, integrating Catholic values into daily instruction and school life.
- Designed and implemented comprehensive weekly lesson plans aligned with student learning goals, using the Wilson Language Training program for phonics and Everyday Mathematics for math instruction.
- Conducted regular assessments, including unit tests and MAP Growth benchmarks, to monitor student progress and guide instruction.
- Differentiated instruction through whole-group, small-group, and individualized strategies to meet diverse academic and social-emotional needs.
- Created a positive, engaging classroom environment that supported both academic rigor and student well-being.
- Used technology tools to enhance student engagement and support interactive learning experiences.
- Managed classroom behavior by establishing clear expectations and consistent routines.
- Maintained open, consistent communication with families through newsletters, phone calls, and conferences; collaborated with parents to support student growth.
- Participated in professional development, faculty meetings, and religious service projects; upheld school and diocesan policies with professionalism and confidentiality.
Pre-K Teacher's Assistant
St Leo’s School
10.2021 - 06.2022
- Supported the lead teacher in managing a classroom of 4–5-year-olds, assisting with daily lessons, hands-on activities, and classroom routines.
- Supervised small groups and provided one-on-one support to promote academic, social, and emotional development.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and nurturing classroom environment; ensured student hygiene and safety throughout the school day.
- Helped coordinate snacks, lunch, field trips, and school events; accompanied students to various areas of the building as needed.
- Communicated with parents when appropriate to support student behavior and progress.
Site Supervisor/Counselor
YMCA of Garfield
10.2016 - 03.2020
- Managed daily operations of a licensed after-school program for elementary students, maintaining a safe and engaging environment.
- Supervised and guided a team of counselors, delegated responsibilities, and ensured program activities ran smoothly.
- Maintained accurate attendance, snack, and incident records in compliance with YMCA and state requirements.
- Communicated regularly with parents and site leadership regarding student behavior, safety, and program updates.
- Responded to emergencies and administered first aid according to YMCA protocols.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English
Felician University
Lodi, NJ01-2023
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Differentiated Instruction
- Curriculum Development
- Bilingual Communication (Spanish)
- Assessment & Data-Driven Instruction
Certification
Elementary Education (K–6), State of New Jersey
Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TOSD)
Substitute Teacher Certification – State of New Jersey
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
2nd Grade Teacher
ILearn Schools
08.2024 - Current
4th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher
ILearn Schools
08.2023 - 08.2024
1st Grade Teacher
St Leo’s School
10.2022 - 06.2023
Pre-K Teacher's Assistant
St Leo’s School
10.2021 - 06.2022
Site Supervisor/Counselor
YMCA of Garfield
10.2016 - 03.2020
Bachelor of Arts - English
Felician University
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