Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic

April Arellano

Socorro

Summary

Qualified Behavior Intervention Teacher with solid background in Special Education EC- 12, providing tailored instructional strategies for diverse learning needs. Successfully implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) to enhance student engagement and progress. Demonstrated expertise in behavior management and fostering inclusive classroom environments.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate

Work History

Special Education Teacher

Fabens Independent School District
08.2022 - Current
  • Assisted in developing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to implement effective teaching strategies.
  • Supported classroom management to create a positive learning environment.
  • Utilized adaptive technology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Communicated regularly with parents regarding student development and challenges.
  • Participated in training sessions focused on inclusive education practices.
  • Implemented behavioral intervention strategies to promote student success.
  • Monitored student progress and adjusted instructional techniques as necessary.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
  • Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
  • Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
  • Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices in special education instruction and classroom management techniques.
  • Fostered positive learning environment, reducing classroom disruptions through effective behavior management strategies.
  • Encouraged students to take ownership of learning by providing choices.
  • Developed individualized education plans to meet diverse student needs.

Content Mastery Center Teacher

Fabens Independent School District
08.2022 - Current
  • Designed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
  • Facilitated classroom discussions to enhance student understanding and participation.
  • Assessed student performance through various evaluation methods, ensuring academic growth.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary projects that promote critical thinking.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
  • Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child''s educational journey.
  • Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.

Behavior Intervention Center Teacher

Fabens Independent School District
08.2022 - Current
  • Conducted assessments to identify behavioral challenges and monitor progress toward goals.
  • Trained and mentored new staff on effective behavior management techniques and interventions.
  • Designed instructional materials that promote social-emotional learning across various educational settings.
  • Increased student engagement by incorporating positive reinforcement strategies into daily routines and interactions.
  • Mentored new Behavior Intervention Specialists, sharing best practices and providing guidance on case management processes.
  • Facilitated professional development workshops for school staff on topics related to behavior management, de-escalation techniques, and trauma-informed practices.
  • Provided crisis intervention services during critical incidents, ensuring the safety of all parties involved while maintaining a respectful approach.
  • Developed strong relationships with students and families, fostering open communication regarding behavioral concerns and progress towards goals.
  • Served as a resource for teachers seeking guidance on how to best address the unique behavioral needs of their students, offering strategies and tools tailored to specific situations.

Head Start Teacher

Region 19 Head Start
09.2018 - 07.2022
  • Participated in ongoing professional development to stay up-to-date on best practices in early childhood education.
  • Improved classroom management through the use of positive reinforcement strategies and clear expectations.
  • Developed strong relationships with students, fostering a supportive and nurturing learning environment that encouraged academic success.
  • Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom.
  • Enhanced parent-teacher communication by maintaining open lines of communication via newsletters, conferences, and progress reports.
  • Planned and executed activities to stimulate physical, social and intellectual growth.
  • Created safe and nurturing learning environment for preschoolers.
  • Established positive relationships with students and families.
  • Assessed student progress and provided feedback on educational development.
  • Incorporated music, art and literature into curriculum.
  • Encouraged use of technology to support student learning.
  • Supported students in developing self-esteem and self-confidence.
  • Modeled positive behavior and communication skills for students.

Special Education Teacher's Aide

Montana Vista Elementary
12.2014 - 06.2015
  • Promoted inclusion by adapting mainstream curriculum materials to meet the unique needs of special education students.
  • Supported classroom management by maintaining a positive and structured environment conducive to learning.
  • Facilitated successful transitions between grade levels or educational settings by collaborating with students, families, and school staff throughout the process.
  • Encouraged student self-advocacy by teaching effective communication skills and fostering independence in daily tasks.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students during academic tasks, ensuring understanding and completion of assignments.
  • Maintained detailed records of student performance, attendance, behavior, and accommodations to ensure compliance with federal regulations and district policies.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in special education instruction and intervention techniques.

Child Care Center Teacher

Alpine Community Center
03.2010 - 12.2012
  • Increased student collaboration by developing group projects and team-building activities.
  • Contributed to ongoing professional development by attending workshops and conferences related to early childhood education trends and research findings.
  • Boosted literacy skills by implementing targeted reading programs for struggling readers.
  • Instructed children in health and personal habits, such as eating, resting, and toileting.

Child Care Center Teacher

Sul Ross Child Care & Family Support Center
01.2008 - 03.2010
  • Sanitized dishes, tabletops, toys, and frequently touched surfaces to prevent spreading of germs.
  • Ensured child safety through diligent supervision and adherence to established protocols.
  • Administered first aid when necessary, maintaining a calm demeanor during emergencies and handling situations effectively.
  • Applied positive behavior management techniques to enhance social interactions and emotional development.
  • Created a safe environment through routine inspections of play areas, toys, and equipment for potential hazards.
  • Taught children to organize toys, wash hands, and share by leading by example.
  • Prepared healthy foods and beverages for children based on optimal dietary guidelines and individual restrictions.
  • Implemented creative problem-solving techniques to address challenges faced while caring for multiple children simultaneously.

Education

Masters of Education - General Education & Special Education

Sul Ross State University
Alpine, TX
03-2014

Bachelor of Arts - General Education

Sul Ross State University
Alpine, TX
12-2012

High School Diploma -

Fabens High School
Fabens, TX
05-2006

Skills

  • Inclusive teaching practices
  • PLAAFP Creator
  • Emotional support
  • Transition planning
  • IEP implementation
  • Individual education plans IEP's
  • Social skills development
  • Positive role model
  • Behavior intervention plans
  • Verbal and nonverbal communication
  • De-escalation techniques
  • Crisis prevention and intervention

Accomplishments

  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
  • Trained fellow teachers on the procedures for completing Individual Education Plans.

Certification

  • Completion of 30 Gifted and Talented hours with 22 Certificates.

Languages

Spanish
Full Professional

Timeline

Special Education Teacher

Fabens Independent School District
08.2022 - Current

Content Mastery Center Teacher

Fabens Independent School District
08.2022 - Current

Behavior Intervention Center Teacher

Fabens Independent School District
08.2022 - Current

Head Start Teacher

Region 19 Head Start
09.2018 - 07.2022

Special Education Teacher's Aide

Montana Vista Elementary
12.2014 - 06.2015

Child Care Center Teacher

Alpine Community Center
03.2010 - 12.2012

Child Care Center Teacher

Sul Ross Child Care & Family Support Center
01.2008 - 03.2010

Masters of Education - General Education & Special Education

Sul Ross State University

Bachelor of Arts - General Education

Sul Ross State University

High School Diploma -

Fabens High School