Accomplished educator with a proven track record at Springfield Christian School, enhancing academic growth through differentiated instruction and literary analysis. Excelled in fostering collaborative learning and relationship building, leading to significant improvements in reading comprehension and writing skills. Expert in adapting lesson plans to meet diverse needs, ensuring all students achieve their full potential. Connected Biblical knowledge at every opportunity, keeping Christ in the center of learning and connecting.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
6-8 Literature Teacher
Springfield Christian School
08.2015 - 05.2024
Created a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
Established a curriculum using Common Core Learning Standards as a guide and backwards planning from ninth grade down to sixth based on expectations outlined by community high schools.
Diversified text levels and curriculum for grade-level courses and accelerated courses at each grade.
Developed positive rapport with parents, students, and staff to best support the culture of the school and the classroom.
Emphasized excellence in all areas of language arts instruction: reading, writing, and speaking.
Stayed current on best practices in literature instruction through ongoing professional development opportunities and collaboration with peers.
Mentored new teachers in effective instructional strategies, fostering a supportive professional community within the Jr. High team.
Evaluated student work using rubrics to provide clear expectations for success and constructive feedback on areas needing improvement.
Utilized assessment data to inform instructional practices and ensure student success in mastering learning objectives.
Supported students in development of skills and strategies to become independent and successful learners.
Encouraged students to take active role in learning and academic success.
Supported development of individualized education plans for students with special needs.
7th Grade Reading and Language Arts Teacher
Riverton Middle School
07.2011 - 06.2015
Promoted critical thinking skills through analytical writing assignments that encouraged students to synthesize information from multiple sources.
Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing innovative teaching techniques and multimedia resources.
Developed strong reading skills among students by implementing engaging literature circles and guided reading activities.
Promoted effective verbal and written communication through listening, speaking, reading, and writing practice.
Evaluated academic skills of each student through verbal assessments, graded assignments, and standardized tests.
Evaluated student progress and adjusted instructional strategies accordingly, leading to improved performance for struggling learners.
Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
Education
Master of Arts - Education
Benedictine University
Springfield, IL
07.2011
Bachelor of Arts - Developmental Psychology
University of Illinois
Springfield, IL
05.2008
Skills
Collaborative learning
Oral communication
Literary Analysis
Writing instruction
Reading Comprehension
Expertise in Literature
Multitasking and Organization
Relationship Building
Lesson Planning
Differentiated Instruction
Certification
IL Professional Educator License K-9
*Edorsements: 5-8 General Science, Language Arts, and Social Science
Elementary Teacher, K-3 Student Support Specialist at Springfield Christian SchoolElementary Teacher, K-3 Student Support Specialist at Springfield Christian School
Assistant Principal at Springfield High School & Junior High School, Springfield Local SchoolsAssistant Principal at Springfield High School & Junior High School, Springfield Local Schools