- Avid Reader
- Up-to-date on the latest research in conjunction with the Science of Reading
- Creative Writing
BRIANA CLIFTON
Lansing
Summary
Professional educator with expertise in creating engaging and inclusive learning environments. Proven experience in curriculum development, classroom management, and student assessment. Specialized in language instruction and the Science of Reading, driving student growth and academic success. Highly collaborative and adaptable to changing educational needs.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
English Teacher and Reading Specialist
Rich Central High School
09.2019 - 06.2025
- I taught Pre-AP English 9 (both regular and co-taught) along with English 11 (both regular and co-taught); Reading for Freshmen, and Freshman Seminar
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
Third Grade Teacher
Calvary Academy
08.2018 - 06.2019
- After staying home to raise my children, I was asked last minute by my former principal to come back and co-teach 3rd grade at Calvary
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and best practices, enhancing overall teaching effectiveness.
- Planned lessons according to district standards to cover requirements and prepare for standardized tests.
Lincoln School
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Started as a paraprofessional working with their ALOP program for students who needed an alternative learning environment
- The next year, I was hired on as a teacher in their RSSP program for students who were suspended from school
- In each program, I worked diligently with students to help them complete their courses throughout the year
Bassett High School
01.2007 - 01.2012
- At BHS, in Virginia, I worked together with the English Special Education teacher in our freshmen inclusion class
- Here we used differentiated instruction, guided reading, student centers, modified instruction, and peer teaching to appeal to our ELL, IEP, and regular education students
Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy School
01.2006 - 01.2007
- At this special education school, I was the Behavior Disorder teacher for high school students
- Here I worked diligently with the social worker and principal to implement a curriculum that would fit each child’s varying needs of education and social-emotion needs as well
Calvary Academy
01.2002 - 01.2006
- After working in their Extended Day Program, I was happily hired as the Junior High Language Arts teacher
- I designed lesson plans for a creative and technical writing unit for grades 6th through 8th
- As head 8th grade teacher, I planned and scheduled field trips for the entire junior high
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English Secondary Education
Governor’s State University
University Park, IL01.2001
Master’s - English
Purdue Calumet University
Master of Arts - Reading
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL12-2021
Skills
- Student motivation
- Problem-solving skills
- Reading comprehension
- Student support and engagement
- Curriculum development
- Classroom management
- Teaching strategies
Training
- Dan Mulligan Designing Assessment and Instruction, 2012
- Writing Initiative Scorer, 2011-2013
- Differentiated Instruction, 2007-2010
- Wilson Reading Introductory Class 4th Edition 2018
Certification
Reading Specialist
Interests
Timeline
English Teacher and Reading Specialist
Rich Central High School
09.2019 - 06.2025
Third Grade Teacher
Calvary Academy
08.2018 - 06.2019
Lincoln School
01.2012 - 01.2013
Bassett High School
01.2007 - 01.2012
Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy School
01.2006 - 01.2007
Calvary Academy
01.2002 - 01.2006
Master’s - English
Purdue Calumet University
Bachelor of Arts - English Secondary Education
Governor’s State University
Master of Arts - Reading
Olivet Nazarene University
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