April L. Vassalli
Garland
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated educator with over 5 years of experience in elementary classrooms, actively pursuing a teaching role in special education with a focus in a Content-Based Special Educaton(CBSE) class. Skilled in individualized instruction, intervention planning, classroom accommodations, and fostering inclusive, supportive environments. ESL certified and experienced working closely with students requiring additional academic and behavioral support.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
1st and 2nd Grade Teacher
Dorsey Elementary School, Garland ISD
07.2019 - Current
- Deliver differentiated instruction to meet a wide range of academic abilities, including students requiring Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions.
- Implement IEP accommodations and collaborate with SPED and support staff to ensure inclusive practices.
- Facilitate small group instruction focused on foundational literacy and numeracy skills.
- Monitor progress through formative assessments and modify instruction accordingly.
- Earned AVID DigitalXP: Math Discourse Elementary badge and completed TEA Reading Academy.
- Coordinated special events such as field trips, enriching students'' educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting.
- Serve on the RLA Curriculum Feedback Committee to help improve instructional alignment and equity.
- Attended students' sporting events and performances to offer support and encourage extracurricular activities.
4th Grade Teacher
Park Crest Elementary School, Garland ISD
08.2018 - 05.2019
- Utilized assessment data (MAP, benchmarks, reading levels) to personalize instruction for all learners.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, establishing clear expectations and consequences while fostering a respectful learning environment.
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, addressing the unique needs of each student in the classroom.
4th Grade ELAR Teacher
Toler Elementary School, Garland ISD
03.2018 - 06.2018
- Developed responsive instruction for students with varied learning profiles, including those with learning disabilities and language needs.
- Administered assessments and used results to adapt materials and instructional delivery.
Substitute Teacher
Garland ISD
01.2018 - 03.2018
- 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.
- Adapted instruction based on student needs and classroom context.
Student Teacher
Weaver Elementary School, Garland ISD
09.2017 - 12.2017
- Worked with the classroom teacher to learn about current standards and best practices.
- Supported instruction for students with diverse needs, including English learners and those receiving academic accommodations.
- Gained experience managing small groups and modifying tasks to support student success.
Dyslexia Paraeducator
Garland ISD
11.2014 - 08.2017
- Delivered explicit comprehension instruction to small groups of students with reading difficulties.
- Facilitated previously recorded lessons using the Orton-Gillingham approach to teaching literacy.
- Administered tests and assessments to evaluate student progress and performance.
- Graded and provided feedback on assignments.
- Prepared reports and maintained administrative records.
SpEd Paraprofessional
Golden Meadows Elementary School, Garland ISD
08.2003 - 10.2005
- Supported students in the Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities (PPCD) by providing individualized support and accommodations for diverse learning needs.
- Provided one-on-one assistance for students with various disabilities, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Collaborated with teachers and specialists to assess student progress.
- Promoted a positive classroom culture by modeling appropriate behavior and establishing clear expectations for conduct.
- Instructed small groups of students in basic concepts such as alphabet, shapes, and color recognition.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies, Generalist EC–6
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX12.2017
Skills
- Effective small group teaching
- Proactive parent outreach
- Diverse teaching strategies
- Team collaboration
Certification
- Texas Core Subjects EC–6
- English as a Second Language (ESL) Supplemental
Timeline
1st and 2nd Grade Teacher
Dorsey Elementary School, Garland ISD
07.2019 - Current
4th Grade Teacher
Park Crest Elementary School, Garland ISD
08.2018 - 05.2019
4th Grade ELAR Teacher
Toler Elementary School, Garland ISD
03.2018 - 06.2018
Substitute Teacher
Garland ISD
01.2018 - 03.2018
Student Teacher
Weaver Elementary School, Garland ISD
09.2017 - 12.2017
Dyslexia Paraeducator
Garland ISD
11.2014 - 08.2017
SpEd Paraprofessional
Golden Meadows Elementary School, Garland ISD
08.2003 - 10.2005
Bachelor of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies, Generalist EC–6
Stephen F. Austin State University
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