Cathy Wilson
Griggsville,Illinois
Summary
Driven by a passion for special education, I plan on engaging skills in lesson planning and emotional support at Pikeland Community Unit 10 to enhance student engagement and academic success as I start my new role. My collaborative approach and proficiency in progress monitoring will influence improvements in learning outcomes, demonstrating a strong commitment to student development and achievement.
As a 20-year veteran in education, I plan to continue to utilize my equipped abilities with positive attitude and patience vital to teaching children with special needs. Extensive experience in creating innovative lesson plans and comfortable learning environments.
I have served on committees such as: PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports)which included planning behavioral reward events, presenting behavioral lessons to students, managed the reward incentives store, and attended PBIS trainings and meetings, SAP (Student Assistant Program, which provides to students' needs), coached junior volleyball for two years, and cheerleading sponsor for eight years.
My 20-years of experience has provided me with knowledge and strengths in special education that I plan to implement in this new position as a special education inclusion teacher. My strengths have been in teaching the English Language Arts curriculum in the classroom, managing classroom behavior, and assisting the teacher where needed.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Inclusion Teacher
Pikeland Community Unit 10
07.2024 - Current
- Conduct regular progress monitoring to identify areas of improvement and adjust instructional strategies accordingly.
- Collaborate with general education teachers to modify lesson plans and assessments, ensuring accessibility for all students.
- Provide ongoing feedback and guidance to general education teachers on accommodating diverse learners in their classrooms, ensuring inclusive practices.
- Redirect students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
- Assist struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focusing on areas for improvement.
- Facilitate small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
- Plan daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
- Conduct assessments of students to determine individual needs.
- Utilize technology to create meaningful lessons that engage students.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Pikeland Community Unit 10
08.2004 - 06.2024
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
- Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
- Assisted in the implementation of effective behavior management techniques, resulting in a more focused and positive classroom environment.
- Collaborated with teacher to create customized classroom environment integral to students' needs.
- Monitored student classroom and outdoors activities to promote student safety.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in special education instruction and support services.
- Oversaw class of students in absence of instructor.
- Supported teacher in development of individual learning strategies.
- Documented student behaviors, interventions, and outcomes to enable lead teacher to address pertinent issues.
- Enhanced students'' learning experiences by implementing individualized educational plans and adapting teaching methods for special needs students.
- Partnered with speech therapists, occupational therapists, and other related service providers to ensure comprehensive support for each individual student''s growth and progress.
- Assisted teachers with classroom management and document coordination to maintain positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive support strategies for each student, contributing to improved academic performance.
- Facilitated social skills development through targeted group activities, promoting positive peer relationships and increased self-confidence among special education students.
- Implemented evidence-based instructional strategies tailored to each student''s unique learning style, promoting greater comprehension across subject areas.
- Assisted with communication methods to keep parents informed about child's development and behavioral issues.
- Delivered efficient instruction by assisting with lesson planning and materials preparation.
- Kept open and frequent communication with families to provide regular updates on child's academic progress and individualized needs.
- Collaborated with teachers and specialists to assess student progress.
- Responded to emergency situations to resolve immediate safety concerns or direct appropriate personnel for resolution.
- Provided individualized reading, writing and math instruction to support student development.
- Contributed to successful transitions between grade levels by collaborating closely with incoming teachers about each student''s specific strengths, challenges, and support requirements.
- Assisted in the organization of field trips and extracurricular events that offered valuable real-world experiences for special education students, fostering skill-building opportunities outside the classroom setting.
Daycare Provider
Self-employeed
10.1993 - 08.2004
- Maintained a safe and nurturing environment for children, ensuring their physical and emotional wellbeing.
- Managed daily routines, including meal preparation and nap times, promoting a structured and consistent schedule for children.
- Developed strong relationships with families, fostering trust and open communication between parents and caregivers.
- Provided individualized attention to each child, recognizing their unique needs and adapting care accordingly.
- Created and implemented diverse educational strategies to boost development.
- Provided support and guidance to children in conflict resolution.
Cashier/Produce Clerk
Ackles Farm Market
06.1988 - 05.1991
- Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
- Operated cash register for cash and check with excellent accuracy levels.
- Restocked and organized merchandise.
- Kept tidy and organized area to comply with cleanliness standards.
Education
Associate of Arts - Education
John Wood Community College
Quincy, IL05.2025
Skills
- Parent-teacher collaboration
- Collaborative Teaching
- Visual supports
- Literacy Intervention
- Progress Monitoring
- Lesson Planning
- Emotional Support
- Trained in CPI
- Group and individual instruction
- IEP development
- Executive Functioning Support
- Student Support
Timeline
Special Education Inclusion Teacher
Pikeland Community Unit 10
07.2024 - Current
Special Education Paraprofessional
Pikeland Community Unit 10
08.2004 - 06.2024
Daycare Provider
Self-employeed
10.1993 - 08.2004
Cashier/Produce Clerk
Ackles Farm Market
06.1988 - 05.1991
Associate of Arts - Education
John Wood Community College
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