Dynamic Special Education Teacher with a proven track record at Chesterfield County Public Schools, excelling in specialized instruction and IEP development for students with complex learning needs. Passionate in fostering meaningful inclusion opportunities for all students and building strong relationships with students, staff, and parents. Demonstrated success in training teachers and implementing data-driven strategies to enhance student achievement.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher-adapted Curriculum
Chesterfield County Public Schools
08.2010 - Current
Provided specially-designed instruction in the special education setting to students with complex learning needs who require instruction using an adapted curriculum.
Developed, implemented, and managed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
Developed, implemented, and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners with complex physical, medical, sensory, and cognitive needs.
Implemented an intensive data collection regime and conducted assessments of students for the following purposes :identify specific learning needs and maximize progress, IEP goal development, track growth in IEP goals and objectives, determine functions of target behavior, assess effects of behavioral interventions, trial communication mediums with guidance from IEP team
Train and assist classroom instructional assistants and IEP team members in IEP implementation and Behavioral Intervention Plans
Coordinated with administrators and teaching staff members to provide inclusive opportunities that are meaningful for all students in the school community. .
Fostered meaningful relationships with parents and guardians to support growth and independence of their child at school, home, and in community. Encouraged parental involvement in their child’s education and ensured consistent, effective communication with parents.
Assisted in mentoring of new teachers through training and guidance.
Served as team leader of the Multiple Disabilities Program (2021-present).
Implemented an Adapted curriculum and modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
Special Education Instructional Assistant
Chesterfield County Public Schools
09.2009 - 06.2010
Provided instructional support in all academic content areas under the direction of the special education teacher.
Supported student progress by implementing individualized education plans, adapting instructional strategies/materials, and implementing accommodations for all assigned students with direction from the special education teacher and related service providers..
Documented student progress as directed by the special education teacher.
Participated in trainings and implemented support for students related to toileting, personal care, and basic healthcare related needs (e.g., using a Hoyer lift, tube feeding, seizure intervention)
Risk Representative
Capital One
04.2009 - 08.2009
Collected on delinquent accounts to reduce overdue balances.
Educated debtors about repayment options, enabling them to make informed decisions while preserving positive business relationships.
Resolved customer disputes and disagreements through professional, calm communication to find mutually beneficial solutions.
Cultivated strong rapport with clients through attentive listening, empathetic understanding of their concerns, and prompt resolution of any disputes or issues.
Increased customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints in a timely manner.
Enhanced company reputation by providing exceptional customer service and support.
Developed and maintained positive customer relations and coordinated with team members to properly handle requests and questions.
Substitute Teacher
Richmond Christian School
08.2008 - 06.2009
Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
Cashier Team Lead
Chick-fil-A
06.2001 - 04.2009
Greeted customers promptly and took orders to keep flow of traffic moving.
Wiped counters and sanitized equipment to maintain clean food prep and dining areas.
Followed food safety procedures outlined in company policies and health and sanitation regulations to prevent food borne illness.
Collaborated with team members to quickly fill large orders and serve large parties.
Provided support to crew members, facilitating quick food preparation and delivery.
Maintained cleanliness and organization of the dining area, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere for customers.
Collaborated with team members to maintain a well-stocked inventory and ensure smooth operations during peak hours.
Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and friendly service in a fast-paced environment.
Contributed to maintaining a positive work environment by fostering effective communication among team members.
Responded to customer inquiries and concerns with empathy and professionalism, working to resolve issues in a timely manner.
Assisted in training new employees, ensuring they quickly became proficient in their roles and responsibilities.
Processed orders on POS system and accepted cash and charge payments.
Restocked workstations with supplies and food display cases with fresh selections to decrease customer waiting during busy periods.
Demonstrated flexibility in schedule availability, ensuring adequate staffing levels were maintained during peak hours or unexpected absences.
Cashier
$1.50 Cleaners
08.2006 - 05.2008
Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions.
Maximized profitability with thorough attention to detail in garment inspection, pre-treatment, and post-cleaning quality checks.
Sorted and counted articles removed from dryers to fold, wrap or hang items.
Examined and sorted articles according to color, fabric, soil level and required cleaning technique.
Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
Education
Severe Disabilities Consortium - Special Education - Severe Disabilities
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
12.2012
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
05.2008
Skills
Specialized instruction for complex learners
Classroom Management
IEP Development and Implementation
Relationship Building
Individualized Lesson Planning
Data Management
Training and Mentoring Teachers
Individualized Instruction
Parent Communication and Rapport
Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Meaningful Inclusion Strategies
Team Collaboration
Accomplishments
OB Gates Elementary 2018 Teacher of the Year
Winner of 2 Game Changer Awards
Team Leader for the Multiple Disabilities Program at OB Gates (2021-present)
Trainer in Chesterfield County on Unique Learning Systems (2020-present)
Timeline
Special Education Teacher-adapted Curriculum
Chesterfield County Public Schools
08.2010 - Current
Special Education Instructional Assistant
Chesterfield County Public Schools
09.2009 - 06.2010
Risk Representative
Capital One
04.2009 - 08.2009
Substitute Teacher
Richmond Christian School
08.2008 - 06.2009
Cashier
$1.50 Cleaners
08.2006 - 05.2008
Cashier Team Lead
Chick-fil-A
06.2001 - 04.2009
Severe Disabilities Consortium - Special Education - Severe Disabilities
Special Education - Adapted Curriculum at Chesterfield County Public SchoolsSpecial Education - Adapted Curriculum at Chesterfield County Public Schools
Special Education Instructional Assistant at Chesterfield County Public SchoolsSpecial Education Instructional Assistant at Chesterfield County Public Schools