CANDACE MCDONALD
Teacher
Summary
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Lamar County School District
08.2006 - Current
- Maintained accurate records of up to 20 students progress towards IEP goals.
- Developed individual educational plans designed to promote educational, physical, and social development.
- Built relationships with students and guardians through active communication and positive feedback.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports, and state-specific special education documentation.
- Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
Case Manager
Pine Belt Mental Healthcare Resources
08.2003 - 05.2006
- Assessed and identified service delivery challenges and opportunities within the local area.
- Participated in regular team meetings and in-house training sessions to boost group effectiveness.
- Collaborated with medical professionals to coordinate treatment plans for clients.
- Facilitated communication between clients, families, caregivers, social services, and other agencies to ensure client needs were met.
- Developed trusting relationships with social services, health care providers, and governmental agencies.
- Maintained logs and electronic client records following department and agency policies for effective monitoring.
- Managed approximately 25 incoming calls and emails per day from clients.
Associate Counselor
Pine Grove Health Center
01.2000 - 07.2003
- Interviewed consumers and families to determine eligibility for services.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions focused on topics such as substance abuse, anger management, or grief counseling.
- Completed detailed documentation of sessions, patient notes, and recommendations.
- Provided supervision and in-house activities to support program participants.
- Responded to crisis situations when severe mental health and behavioral issues arose.
- Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
- Managed as many as 20 patients during active therapy sessions.
Education
Master of Arts - Education (Mild & Moderate Disabilities)
William Carey University
Hattiesburg, MS05.2014
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS08.1999
Skills
- Versatile problem-solving
- Effective organizational skills
- Consistent dependability
- Engaged listening
- Effective communication
- Collaborative teamwork
- Innovative thinking
- Software proficiency
- Analytical problem-solving
- Team leadership
- Effective time management
Certification
Elementary Education k-6
Psychology 7-12
Social Studies 7-12
Mild & Moderate Disabilities k-12
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Lamar County School District
08.2006 - Current
Case Manager
Pine Belt Mental Healthcare Resources
08.2003 - 05.2006
Associate Counselor
Pine Grove Health Center
01.2000 - 07.2003
Master of Arts - Education (Mild & Moderate Disabilities)
William Carey University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
University of Southern Mississippi