Cara Bickford
Chester,NH
Summary
Innovative educator with extensive experience in lesson planning and behavior management. Skilled in creating engaging, child-centered learning experiences that encourage critical thinking and respect for diversity. Aiming to support holistic development in early childhood education.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
St. Thomas Aquinas School
Derry, New Hampshire
09.2016 - 06.2017
- Developed multi-disciplinary units and open-ended lesson plans that encouraged creativity, excitement, and independence through exploration and self-discovery, enhancing student engagement.
- Encouraged critical thinking through problem-solving activities and provided opportunities for student-driven projects and experiments, extending learning based on individual interests.
- Fostered a nurturing environment promoting children's social, emotional, and spiritual growth within the Catholic community, emphasizing respect, responsibility, and compassion.
Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Mount Saint Mary Academy
Manchester, NH
09.2013 - 06.2016
- Developed emergent curriculum that engaged diverse student interests and fostered inclusive learning.
- Provided safe classroom environment with dynamic resources that encouraged child-centered learning and self-expression.
- Established connections with families and community to create a supportive network that promoted values of Mercy through local outreach and environmental projects.
Lead Kindergarten Teacher
The Goddard School
Derry, NH
02.2012 - 06.2013
- Taught full-day kindergarten program at established learning center following pre-determined curriculum.
- Adapted structured program to create personalized, engaging learning experiences for each student.
- Monitored student progress and developmental needs through daily observations, informing tailored support strategies.
- Implemented behavior management strategies that fostered a positive classroom environment.
Head Kindergarten Teacher
JP Kids and Company
Windham, New Hampshire
08.1998 - 06.2006
- Established district's first full-day Kindergarten program, fostering strong connections with public school for seamless student transitions.
- Designed and implemented multi-sensory curriculum that enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Trained and supervised associate teachers and classroom assistants, ensuring consistent educational support and effective classroom management.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology/education
The University of New Hampshire
Manchester, NH12-1998
Skills
- Curriculum development
- Lesson planning
- Child development
- Child assessments
- Inclusive education
- Classroom management
- Behavior management
Timeline
Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
St. Thomas Aquinas School
09.2016 - 06.2017
Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Mount Saint Mary Academy
09.2013 - 06.2016
Lead Kindergarten Teacher
The Goddard School
02.2012 - 06.2013
Head Kindergarten Teacher
JP Kids and Company
08.1998 - 06.2006
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology/education
The University of New Hampshire