To gain experience and knowledge in leadership specializing around student engagement. Aim to gain a better understanding and compassion for exceptional learners to better serve their unique needs. Versatile Special Education Teacher with focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of hands-on lessons, catering to diverse learning abilities. Proficient in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement. Resilient Special Education Teacher familiar with challenges associated with teaching special needs children. Remains positive under times of stress or conflict. Works well with classroom teachers to develop accommodations and special techniques for mainstream classroom inclusion.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher/Team Lead/Mentor Teacher/Equity Leadership Team
Stayton Elementary School, North Santiam School
06.2020 - 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.
Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
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.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices in special education instruction and classroom management techniques.
Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
Coordinated regular meetings to share and analyze student performance data and success plans with colleagues and parents.
Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
Provided emotional support to students and families.
Trained new team members by relaying information on company procedures and safety requirements.
Coached team members in techniques necessary to complete job tasks.
Evaluated employee skills and knowledge regularly, training, and mentoring individuals with lagging skills.
Directed and supervised team of 7 instructional assistants engaged in behavior modification and behavior intervention professional development.
Monitored student progress to identify areas requiring extra support and implement action plans to meet needs.
Supervised students during non-instructional times such as lunch breaks or recess periods, maintaining safety standards at all times.
Prepared instructional materials such as worksheets, visuals aids, or manipulatives according to teacher directives for effective lesson execution.
Facilitated small group instruction sessions 5 per day with 5-6 students in each group based on specific skill sets or subject matter, boosting overall student achievement levels. 30 minute group rotations.
Coordinated with other instructional assistants to ensure consistent implementation of classroom procedures and expectations across all subjects.
Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child''s academic performance and any areas requiring additional support or intervention.
Supported English Language Learners (ELLs) to deliver high-quality education for students learning English.
5th Grade Teacher (Long-term Sub)
Department of Defense Education Activity
09.2017 - 06.2018
Participated actively in professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and best practices in teaching 5th grade students.
Assessed student progress regularly using formative and summative assessments, modifying instruction as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lessons, connecting subject matter across various topics.
Developed strong rapport with students, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
Incorporated differentiated instruction techniques to meet the diverse needs of all learners within the classroom.
Cultivated critical thinking skills among students by challenging them with complex problem-solving tasks and thought-provoking discussions.
Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
Paraprofessional
Department of Defense Education Activity
09.2016 - 06.2017
Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
Assisted in the implementation of effective behavior management techniques, resulting in a more focused and positive classroom environment.
Collaborated with teacher to create customized classroom environment integral to students' needs.
Monitored student classroom and outdoors activities to promote student safety.
Maintained positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.
Oversaw class of students in absence of instructor in classes of 15 or more students
Supported students with various disabilities through one-on-one tutoring sessions, improving their understanding of course materials and concepts. As well as small groups of 5-6 students per group consisting of 45 minute lessons 6 times a day.
Substitute Teacher
Department of Defense Education Activity
09.2015 - 06.2016
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.
Assisted in creating safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
Education
Master of Science - Education of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs
Western Oregon University
Monmouth, OR
01.2021
Bachelor of Science - Liberal Arts And General Studies
Eastern Oregon University
01.2013
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Eastern Oregon University
Pendleton, OR
01.2013
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Chemeketa Community College
Salem, OR
01.2010
Skills
Community Resource Referrals
Individual Education Plans IEPs
Relationship Building
Collaborative Teamwork
Data Management
Parent-teacher collaboration
Behavior Intervention Plans
Student Support
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Student Records Management
Emotional Support
Crisis Prevention and Intervention
Conflict resolution technique
Cover Letter
Dear Hiring Manager,I am interested in the position of Every Day Matters Educational Specialist because in that position, I can provide support and make a difference in student's lives. I want to help change the attitudes towards education and help students and families find the value again in getting a proper education and how important it is to attend school to get the education the student deserves. I am a compassionate leader and I feel that with my background in special education and working with students of all backgrounds I would be an excellent addition to your team. I have worked in special education for almost 10 years now. I work closely with school counselors support students who are experiencing houselessness or struggling financially needed to get necessities. I am a current leader and mentor in my position as team lead. I have run over 200 IEP meetings and eligibility meetings. I am part of our Equity Collaborative leadership group, I serve as our AVID team lead, I am part of our PBIS team, and I am part of our math adoption committee. I would like to work in this position because I want to make a difference in student's lives in an impactful way. I feel that my skills and experiences would make me an invaluable asset to your team. I appreciate your consideration for this role and look forward to meeting with you.Thank you,Ashley Mitchell, MS. Ed. SPED
Volunteerexperience
Stayton Volunteer Protection Company #1-Volunteer Fire Fighter Support team, Rehab Company, 2010, 2020
References
Lena Mahurin, Lena.mahurin@nsantiam.k12.or.us, 573-205-6427
Librarian / Special Education Teaching Assistant / Resource Teacher at North Valley Middle School / Pete Mirich Elementary SchoolLibrarian / Special Education Teaching Assistant / Resource Teacher at North Valley Middle School / Pete Mirich Elementary School