Amy Armstrong
Portage,MI
Summary
I am a motivated, hardworking, adaptable professional with a particular passion for working with at-risk youth and community members. Skilled in legal research/writing, data analysis and report preparation. I am a practical problem solver; effective at managing difficult issues and making sound, educated decisions. I am dedicated and supportive with a natural ability to make connections and build strong relationships with colleagues and clients.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Transformative Justice Facilitator
Gryphon Place
08.2024 - 05.2025
- Worked within specific assigned schools in Kalamazoo and Portage Public School District(s)
- Student Conflict Resolution
- Lead structured restorative circles, conferences and peer mediation to foster understanding, resolution and prevent the recurrence of violence and harm
- Guide affected parties in creating clear plans for repair, including concrete actions and commitments
Court Service Specialist
Kalamazoo County Government
02.2023 - 07.2024
- Summoning jurors for 9th Circuit and 8th District Court jury trials
- Managed reporting jurors during voir dire process
- Managed paneled juries
- Completed all jury service paperwork and reports
- Juror payroll
- Criminal Case document and data entry for 9th Circuit Court
- Probation document and date entry
- Hearing Scheduling/Notice
Special Education Teacher - Resource Room
National Heritage Academies - Endeavor Charter Academy
10.2020 - 11.2022
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Developed Individual Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to individual student needs, ensuring academic success and personal growth
- Adapted instructional materials to ensure accessibility for students with varying abilities.
- Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support
- Fostered strong relationships with parents/guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress
Community Educator
Community Learning Center
06.2019 - 03.2020
- Developed School-Age Curriculum
- Determined family qualification for at-risk youth enrollment
- Monitored/Maintained Legal Compliance
- Promoted available resources and connected individuals/families with services
Reading Interventionist
Comstock Public Schools
08.2018 - 06.2019
- Increased student literacy rates by utilizing research-based instructional methods and materials
- Monitored and assessed student progress through data-driven analysis, adjusting instruction as necessary to ensure optimal results
- Conducted one-on-one and small group sessions designed to challenge above grade level students
Permanent Building Substitute/Special Education Specialist
Cahokia Unit School District 187
08.2007 - 05.2015
- Reported daily and filled in for absent staff throughout the building
- Provided one-on-one support for students struggling with specific concepts or tasks, resulting in improved comprehension and performance
- Enhanced student understanding by adapting instructional techniques to meed individual needs and learning styles
- Maintained detailed records of student progress, attendance, behaviors and IEP goals
- Communicated effectively with parents to discuss student progress, challenges and areas for improvement
Judicial Law Clerk
Missouri Court of Appeals - Eastern District
06.2001 - 09.2004
- Analyzed trial court records and briefs to identify relevant legal issues and arguments.
- Researched laws, court decisions and other documents relevant to cases before court to aide in judge's decision-making.
- Drafted legal memoranda and opinions for review by appellate judges.
- Assisted in preparing bench briefs for judges prior to oral arguments
- Attended Appellate Hearing
Education
J.D. - Law
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO05.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO05.1995
High School Diploma -
Kalamazoo Central High School
Kalamazoo, MI06.1990
Skills
- Legal Writing
- Ethics and Professionalism
- Client Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Written Communication
- Interpersonal Skills
- Statutory Interpretation
- Decision Making
- Flexibility and Adaptability
Timeline
Transformative Justice Facilitator
Gryphon Place
08.2024 - 05.2025
Court Service Specialist
Kalamazoo County Government
02.2023 - 07.2024
Special Education Teacher - Resource Room
National Heritage Academies - Endeavor Charter Academy
10.2020 - 11.2022
Community Educator
Community Learning Center
06.2019 - 03.2020
Reading Interventionist
Comstock Public Schools
08.2018 - 06.2019
Permanent Building Substitute/Special Education Specialist
Cahokia Unit School District 187
08.2007 - 05.2015
Judicial Law Clerk
Missouri Court of Appeals - Eastern District
06.2001 - 09.2004
J.D. - Law
University of Missouri
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
University of Missouri
High School Diploma -
Kalamazoo Central High School