Dedicated Special Education Teacher with expertise in IEP implementation and non-violent crisis intervention, effectively fostering academic success and emotional support at Watertown Unified School District. Proven ability to collaborate with educators to modify instruction, ensuring student achievements while promoting educational excellence. I am committed to creating structured environments that enhance social and academic growth, ready to adapt to onsite, online, or blended instruction settings.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Watertown Unified School District
03.2025 - Current
Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
Created 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.
Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
Special Education Substitute Teacher
Watertown Unified School District
01.2025 - 03.2025
Strengthened parent-teacher communication by providing frequent updates on student progress and collaborating to create individualized support plans.
Adapted lesson content to accommodate various learning styles within the classroom while maintaining alignment with curriculum standards.
Enhanced student learning by implementing differentiated instruction techniques for special education students.
Evaluated student progress regularly using both formal assessments and informal observations to adjust instructional strategies as needed.
Ensured a safe and inclusive learning environment by promoting respect, empathy, and understanding among all students.
Maintained open lines of communication with families regarding student progress, concerns, or additional supports needed at home or in school settings.
Student Teacher
Watertown Unified School District
08.2024 - 01.2025
Worked with classroom teacher to learn about current standards and best practices.
Facilitated small group activities and one-on-one instruction to meet individual student needs.
Cultivated positive relationships with administration, teaching staff, and students.
Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations, enforcing classroom rules, and fostering open communication.
Developed strong rapport with students by fostering an inclusive classroom culture that valued respect, empathy, and collaboration.
Provided one-on-one support to students during class time, ensuring they understood key concepts and stayed engaged in lessons.
Contributed to a positive school climate by participating in staff meetings, committee work, and community outreach initiatives.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Watertown Unified School District
12.2018 - 07.2024
Motivated students to achieve academic success while fostering an environment of respect and acceptance.
Consulted with teachers regarding student progress, IEP adjustments, and classroom needs.
Supervised students during lunch periods, recesses, and field trips, always ensuring their safety.
Notified instructors of errors or problems with assignments.
Collaborated with classroom teachers to modify educational materials to meet the individual needs of each student.
Assisted teachers in creating and implementing Individualized Education Plans for students with special needs.
Monitored students' behavior to ensure a safe, positive learning environment.
Provided one-on-one instruction to students who needed extra help with learning tasks.
Advised instructor on student behavior or issues requiring immediate attention.
Encouraged independent thinking, problem-solving, and self-advocacy skills among students.
Offered emotional support during times of difficulty or crises involving the student.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Shorehaven Lutheran Homes of Oconomowoc
03.2014 - 12.2018
Assisted residents with activities of daily living, including helping with meals, transferring using assistive devices, bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Displayed strong clinical skills in assessing vital signs, performing lab draws and glucose checks, and providing pre- and post-operative care.
Ensured the accurate, timely flow of information by maintaining thorough patient records, and updating the healthcare team on patients' status.
Complied with HIPAA standards in all patient documentation and interactions and adhered to safety guidelines.
Responded quickly to emergencies involving sudden illness or injury.
Maintained accurate, timely flow of information by completing thorough patient records and updating the healthcare team on patient status.
Participated in educational programs related to nursing assistant skills development.
Assisted patients with daily living activities, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Answered signal lights, bells, or intercom systems to determine resident needs.
Teacher Assistant
New Life Christian Childcare Center
03.2012 - 05.2013
Work with preschool teachers and teacher assistants to teach children through a structured curriculum.
Supervise and monitor the safety of children in your care.
Prepare meals and organize mealtimes and snacks for children.
Assist children with maintaining good hygiene and changing the diapers of infants and toddlers.
Organize activities or implement a curriculum that allows children to learn about the world and explore interests.
Develop schedules and routines to ensure that children have adequate physical activity, rest, and playtime.
Watch for signs of emotional or developmental problems in children and bring the problems to the attention of parents or teachers.
Retain records of children's progress, routines, and interest.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Oak Park Place Memory Care
11.2010 - 04.2012
Provides basic patient care in the clinical setting under the daily direction and supervision of the Registered Nurse.
Collect information about conditions and treatment plans from caregivers, nurses, and doctors.
Clean and sanitize patient areas, change bed dressing, and restock rooms with necessary supplies.
Assist with daily activities that support the environment of patient care.
The administer prescribed medication to patients and maintained medical records under the supervision of a Register Nurse.
Board/Core Committee Member at Greater Watertown Area Community Health FoundationBoard/Core Committee Member at Greater Watertown Area Community Health Foundation