Dynamic educator with a proven track record at West Hartford Public Schools, specializing in curriculum design and differentiated instruction. Recognized for creating innovative programs that enhance student engagement and achievement. Skilled in data analysis and collaboration, I am dedicated to fostering a love for learning in every student.
Hi, I’m
Carrie LaSpada
Educator
West Hartford,CT
Summary
Overview
28
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
West Hartford Public SchoolsWest Hartford, Connecticut
Gifted Education Specialist Grades 3-5
08.2020 - Current
Job overview
- Planned and implemented lessons for grades 3-5 pull-out gifted education program.
- Created and delivered push-in enrichment programs for grades 4-5.
- Collaborated with teachers to provide differentiation and curriculum compacting materials.
- Created bi-annual progress reports and portfolios for identified students.
- Collaborated to create both the Math and ELA curricula.
- Developed and delivered CIT and CSI professional presentations.
- Participated in local, state, and national professional organizations dedicated to advancing the education of gifted children.
- Assisted teachers in creating differentiated instructional materials for individual students or groups of students with similar strengths and weaknesses.
- Provided training and professional development opportunities for teachers regarding best practices in meeting the needs of gifted students.
- Presented at district-wide staff development workshops focusing on effective instructional practices for teaching gifted learners.
- Implemented research-based strategies for teaching gifted learners in all subject areas.
- Promoted collaboration between school personnel, parents, community members, and outside agencies in order to maximize resources available for supporting identified gifted students.
- Organized and facilitated parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress.
- Coordinated interdisciplinary activities such as field trips, guest speakers, and other experiential learning opportunities for gifted students.
- Researched current trends in the field of Gifted Education through attendance at conferences or workshops.
- Advised teachers on strategies that can be used when working with twice-exceptional children who have both gifts and talents as well as disabilities.
Renbrook SchoolWest Hartford, Connecticut
Elementary Education Teacher Grades 2, 3 and 4
08.2007 - 06.2020
Job overview
- Received Crampkin Excellence in Teaching Award 2015.
- Created, planned, and implemented a project-based, differentiated curriculum.
- Developed crossover project for Everyday and Math in Focus Programs.
- Participated in Complete 4 and Six Trait Writing programs.
- Participated in training and delivery of Fundations Reading Program.
- Instituted Flight Day, International Invention Convention, and the Renbrook United Nations.
- Professional development instructor in Harvard Differentiation project.
- Participated actively in school-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall educational outcomes.
- Collaborated with other teachers, administrators, and parents to create an effective learning environment for students.
- Incorporated digital tools into instruction when appropriate to engage students in learning activities.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques tailored for diverse learners such as English language learners.
- Planned and implemented engaging lessons to meet the needs of all students.
- Ensured that all students had access to appropriate instructional materials and technology resources.
- Organized field trips to provide real-world experiences related to curriculum topics.
- Created individualized learning plans for struggling learners based on their strengths and weaknesses.
- Facilitated small group instruction as needed to target specific skills or concepts requiring additional support.
- Communicated effectively with parents about their child's academic progress via email or phone calls.
- Engaged in professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences related to teaching best practices.
- Improved student engagement by implementing student-centered classroom management techniques to foster academic curiosity.
Renbrook SchoolWest Hartford, Connecticut
Stem Educator Grades 1-5
08.2006 - 06.2007
Job overview
- Created, planned, and implemented STEM program for 1-5 Program.
- Collaborated with grade-level teachers to match classroom topics and objectives.
- Created both indoor and outdoor programs to enhance the curriculum.
- Coach: Renbrook Road Runners Cross Country Team Grades 1-5.
- Led STEM Curriculum Mapping teams.
- Led professional development on differentiation strategies and planning.
Windsor Public SchoolsWindsor, CT
Elementary Education Teacher Grades 4, 5, Gifted
08.1997 - 06.2006
Job overview
- Created and implemented Windsor 1-5 Gifted and Talented program.
- Applied and received grant from the Center for School Change.
- Member of the Curriculum Design Team and School Improvement Committee.
- Elected as Clover Educator of the Year.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques tailored for diverse learners
Education
Central Connecticut State UniversityNew Britain, CT
Sixth Year (MA +30) 092 Certification from Educational Leadership And Management
05-2025
University Overview
- Completed 092 certification program of graduate-level coursework, an internship, and portfolio development.
- Elementary education intern at Duffy Elementary School and with the Quest Gifted Education Program.
- Ranked in Top 10% of class
- Designed interactive math lab
- Created professional learning centered around Building Thinking Classrooms and Math Enrichment for all students
- Supported curriculum development projects grades K-5
University of ConnecticutStorrs, CT
Master of Science from Special/Gifted Education
05-2000
University Overview
- Completed Masters Degree focused on Gifted Education in NEAG Center with Joe Renzulli and Sally Reis
- Completed a focus study on students identified as Twice Exceptional (2E)
- Worked with local special education programs to cross identify students as both gifted and neurodivergent
- Developed professional learning for educators devoted to both gifted education and the 2E population.
University of DelawareNewark
B.S. from Special/Gifted Education
05-1996
University Overview
Skills
- Curriculum design
- Differentiated instruction
- Progress monitoring
- Educational technology
- Data analysis
- Collaboration techniques
Affiliations
Affiliations
- Spinning Instructor
- Personal Business: FitMomEZ
- Acapella Musician
- Triathlete/Marathon Runner
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
- Cramphin Excellence in Teahing award
- Teacher of the Year: Clover Street Elementary School
- Golden Key National Honors Society
- Kappa Delta Pi Education Hors Society
Certification
- CT 092: Educational Leadership
- CT 013 and 065: Elementary and Special Education
References
References
References available upon request.Timeline
Gifted Education Specialist Grades 3-5
West Hartford Public Schools
08.2020 - Current
Elementary Education Teacher Grades 2, 3 and 4
Renbrook School
08.2007 - 06.2020
Stem Educator Grades 1-5
Renbrook School
08.2006 - 06.2007
Elementary Education Teacher Grades 4, 5, Gifted
Windsor Public Schools
08.1997 - 06.2006
Central Connecticut State University
Sixth Year (MA +30) 092 Certification from Educational Leadership And Management
University of Connecticut
Master of Science from Special/Gifted Education
University of Delaware
B.S. from Special/Gifted Education
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