Carol Vanek
Enfield,CT
Summary
Experienced Special Education Teacher skilled in individualized instruction and inclusive learning environments. Expertise in curriculum adaptation and behavior management enhances student engagement and academic progress. Builds strong relationships with students and families to support educational journeys, applying effective classroom management and behavior modification techniques. Committed to fostering a growth mindset and inspiring a love of learning in students.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
1:1 Teacher for a homebound, multiply handicapped student
Massachusetts
Wilbraham, Massachusetts
09.2023 - 03.2026
- Provided individualized, in-home instruction for a medically fragile student with multi disabilities, adapting personalized curriculum to meet unique cognitive, physical and emotional needs.
Special Education Teacher of Record Grade 5
Boland Elementary School
Springfield, MA
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Planned a program of study that met the individual needs, interests, and abilities of the students.
- Facilitated engaging learning experiences that enhanced student understanding and participation in assigned classes.
- Created a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the students' maturity and interests.
- Implemented diverse instructional techniques and media tailored to meet physical limitations and individual needs of students, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Guided learning process to achieve district curriculum goals by establishing and communicating clear objectives for lessons, units, and projects.
- Strived by instruction and action to implement the district's philosophy of education, instructional goals and objectives and performance expectations.
- Assessed the accomplishments of students on a regular basis; provided progress reports as required and communicated with parents as deemed necessary.
- Diagnosed the learning challenges of students regularly; sought district specialists' assistance as required.
- Implemented safety measures to ensure the protection of students and classroom resources.
- Planned and supervised assignments for paraprofessionals, and made written evaluations as required.
- Maintained an ongoing program of professional growth that satisfied district requirements but also satisfied personal expectations as a professional.
- Took an active part in the contractually approved teacher evaluation process, contributing to a mutual agreement concerning the results of that evaluation.
Paraprofessional LINKS Grades 1,3 and 5
Massachusetts
Springfield, Massachusetts
09.2017 - 06.2022
- Monitored student progress and provided individualized support to enhance learning outcomes.
- Assisted students with learning challenges and provided individualized support.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to promote a positive environment.
- Supported teachers in classroom activities and lesson preparation.
Teacher Assistant
Playful Minds Learning Center
01.2014 - 01.2017
- Assisted in planning and implementing age-appropriate activities that promoted cognitive, social, and motor development.
- Managed classroom behavior with positive reinforcement strategies, fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Created a safe and nurturing space for children to explore and learn.
- Communicated with staff and parents about children's daily activities and developmental progress, ensuring a collaborative care approach.
- Supported lead teachers in caring for children ages 3 months to 2.5 years in a structured daycare setting.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Ohio, IL
Eastern Gateway Community College
Ohio, ILChildhood Growth and Development course -
Springfield Technical Community College
SpringfieldSpringfield
Skills
- Individualized instruction
- Curriculum adaptation
- Progress assessment
- Behavior management
- Inclusive teaching
- Classroom management
- Conflict resolution
- Team collaboration
- Emotional intelligence
- Performance assessments
- Public speaking
- SMART board aptitude
- Empathy and patience
- Effective listening
- Testing and grading
- Social-emotional learning
- Homework assignment
- Test proctoring
- Special education
- Relationship building
Training
- CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute)
- SIPPS (Literacy Program)
- MCAS ALT
- Woodcock Johnson Test
- IReady
- CPR
Timeline
1:1 Teacher for a homebound, multiply handicapped student
Massachusetts
09.2023 - 03.2026
Special Education Teacher of Record Grade 5
Boland Elementary School
08.2022 - 06.2023
Paraprofessional LINKS Grades 1,3 and 5
Massachusetts
09.2017 - 06.2022
Teacher Assistant
Playful Minds Learning Center
01.2014 - 01.2017
Some College (No Degree) - Ohio, IL
Eastern Gateway Community College
Childhood Growth and Development course -
Springfield Technical Community College