Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Baack Laurie

Toledo,IA

Summary

Educator who fosters significant improvements in student achievement through differentiated instruction and diagnostic assessments. At South Tama County School District, enhanced instructional practices and student engagement by employing excellent communication and collaborative learning strategies. Achieved notable success in inclusive education and professional development facilitation, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and outstanding interpersonal abilities.

Overview

35
35
years of professional experience

Work History

Elementary Instructional Coach

South Tama County School District
08.2021 - 06.2024
  • Coached teachers to improve practices through professional development and modeling instructional strategies.
  • Assisted new teachers acclimate quickly into their roles through comprehensive mentoring programs and ongoing support.
  • Supported data-driven instruction by assisting teachers with analyzing assessment results and adjusting lesson plans accordingly.
  • Implemented research-based instructional strategies to address achievement gaps among various student populations, fostering an inclusive learning environment for all students.
  • Built and maintained positive relationships with students, parents, colleagues and administrators.
  • Promoted continuous improvement in teaching practices by leading professional learning communities focused on best practices and research-based strategies.
  • Facilitated collaborative planning sessions for grade-level teams to establish learning goals and align curriculum across subjects.
  • Championed a growth mindset among staff by promoting reflective practices and encouraging educators to take risks in their instruction.

Special Education Teacher

South Tama County School District
08.2002 - 06.2020
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.

Special Education Teacher

Clear Lake Community Schools
08.1999 - 12.2001

Same as previous special education roles.

Special Education Facilitator

Area Education Agency- Lakeland AEA
08.1996 - 12.1998
  • Assisted in the development of transition plans for students moving from one educational setting to another, ensuring a smooth adjustment process.
  • Facilitated positive behavior support strategies within the classroom setting to promote a safe and nurturing learning environment for all learners.
  • Maintained accurate records of IEP goals and objectives, tracking student progress towards meeting those targets.
  • Managed caseloads effectively by prioritizing tasks based on urgency while consistently meeting deadlines for paperwork completion and submission.
  • Evaluated student progress through continuous assessment, adjusting educational strategies accordingly for optimal results.
  • Improved communication between parents and school staff by organizing meetings and providing regular updates on student progress.
  • Enhanced collaboration between general education teachers and special education service providers by serving as an accessible liaison between both parties.
  • Coordinated resources among school personnel, community agencies, and families to provide comprehensive support systems for students with disabilities.
  • Led professional development workshops for colleagues on best practices in special education facilitation, enhancing overall instructional quality.
  • Provided ongoing support to classroom teachers for integrating differentiated instruction techniques into their lesson planning process.
  • Assisted in the development of data-driven improvement plans by analyzing assessment results and identifying trends in student performance.
  • Ensured compliance with state and federal regulations regarding special education services by maintaining thorough documentation of all interventions and accommodations provided to students.

Autiism Itinerant Teacher

Area Education Agency- Heartland AEA
08.1990 - 06.1994
  • Boosted student participation in classroom activities by fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
  • Supported students with Autism Spectrum Disorder by implementing appropriate modifications and accommodations, ensuring their full access to the curriculum.
  • Strengthened communication skills among students through group projects, presentations, and interactive discussions.
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and guardians, working collaboratively to support student success.
  • Implemented effective classroom management techniques, resulting in a well-organized and focused learning environment for all students.
  • Increased overall student achievement by employing research-based instructional strategies designed to reach diverse learners.
  • Administered tests and assessments to evaluate student progress and performance.
  • Worked with staff members and teachers to design comprehensive and individualized plans to optimize student education.
  • Met with students, parents and administrators to address and resolve students' behavioral and academic issues.
  • Provided and directed professional development in Autism for AEA staff and district teachers.

Special Education Teacher

Akron Westfield Community School
08.1989 - 06.1990

Same as previous special education roles.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education And Special Education

Morningside College
Sioux City, IA
05.1989

Master of Arts - Effective Teaching And Instructional Leadership

Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, IA
04.2017

Skills

  • Communication abilities
  • Instructional planning & differentiated instruction
  • Committed to continuous improvement
  • Collaborative learning & problem-solving support
  • Professional development facilitation
  • Administration of diagnostic assessments
  • Effective instruction for individuals with SEL needs
  • Trained and provided professional development for instructional staff serving students on the Autism Spectrum

Timeline

Elementary Instructional Coach

South Tama County School District
08.2021 - 06.2024

Special Education Teacher

South Tama County School District
08.2002 - 06.2020

Special Education Teacher

Clear Lake Community Schools
08.1999 - 12.2001

Special Education Facilitator

Area Education Agency- Lakeland AEA
08.1996 - 12.1998

Autiism Itinerant Teacher

Area Education Agency- Heartland AEA
08.1990 - 06.1994

Special Education Teacher

Akron Westfield Community School
08.1989 - 06.1990

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education And Special Education

Morningside College

Master of Arts - Effective Teaching And Instructional Leadership

Buena Vista University
Baack Laurie