Cecelia Clark
Syracuse
Summary
Dynamic Teacher of the Deaf with expertise in classroom management, IEP planning, and differentiated instruction. Committed to fostering inclusive learning environments and empowering diverse learners through engaging lesson plans.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Teacher of the Deaf
CiTi BOCES
Mexico, NY
09.2025 - Current
- Direct Instruction & Support: Providing one-on-one or small-group instruction focused on auditory training, language development, and self-advocacy skills.
- Technology Management: Monitoring and troubleshooting communication access technology, such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and FM/DM systems.
- Collaboration & Consulting: Working closely with general education teachers to adapt curriculum, implement accommodations, and ensure appropriate access to the classroom environment.
- IEP & Goal Implementation: Assessing student needs, helping write Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, and tracking progress over time.
- Advocacy & Culture: Teaching students about their hearing loss, promoting Deaf culture, and helping them build confidence and self-advocacy skills.Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
Youth Program Director
WHOLE ME Inc.
Syracuse, NY
09.2014 - Current
- Developed and implemented youth engagement programs to enhance community involvement.
- Fostered partnerships with local organizations to expand service offerings for diverse youth populations.
- Led training sessions for staff and volunteers, improving program delivery and participant satisfaction.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through participant feedback, adjusting activities to meet evolving needs.
- Oversaw all youth-focused programs, including ASL at Play, the after-school program, and the teen group, ensuring high-quality, inclusive experiences for participants from Pre-K through 12th grade.
- Supervised and supported a team of staff and volunteers, fostering a collaborative and mission-driven environment.
- Served as lead teacher for the after-school program, developing and delivering age-appropriate educational and enrichment activities.
- Collaborated closely with the Executive Director to implement policies, secure grant funding, and manage reporting requirements for youth programming.
- Organized and executed successful fundraising initiatives and family engagement events, strengthening community involvement.
- Built and maintained strong, supportive relationships with families, connecting them to valuable resources and ensuring consistent communication, along with providing learning opportunities for Family ASL.
- Attended CPSE/IEP meetings to serve as family advocate.
- Served as Preschool Program Director, cultivating community partnerships to support and expand early childhood education initiatives.
Language Model 1:1
Jowonio School
Syracuse, NY
09.2016 - 08.2023
- Worked closely with students in the preschool mainstreamed setting, acting as a one-on-one Deaf interpreter
- Provided pre-lessons/personal sessions aside from their general classroom.
- Collaborated with educators to enhance student engagement through modeling techniques.
- Developed and implemented creative strategies to facilitate experiential learning for diverse students.
- Mentored new models on effective presentation skills and audience interaction techniques.
- Coordinated with teachers to align modeling sessions with curriculum objectives and learning goals.
Direct Support Staff
Advocates Inc.
Liverpool, NY
2014 - 2016
- Assisted individuals with daily living activities to promote independence and well-being.
- Implemented person-centered care plans tailored to individual needs and preferences.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to monitor health and behavioral changes.
- Supported skill development through engaging recreational and educational activities.
Direct Support Staff
Resource Center for Independent Living
Utica, NY
2013 - 2014
- Maintained accurate documentation of client progress and incidents for compliance purposes.
- Trained new staff on best practices in direct support and client engagement techniques.
- Enhanced communication between clients, families, and service providers to ensure comprehensive care.
- Facilitated conflict resolution among clients to foster a positive living environment.
- My client switched agencies from RCIL to Advocates Inc. after one year and I switched with them.
Education
Master of Science - Deaf Education
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY05-2026
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education With Deaf Studies
SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, NY08-2020
Associate of Applied Science - Early Childhood Education
Onondaga Community College
Syracuse, NY05-2016
Skills
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
- Critical thinking
- Lesson planning
- Positive role model and mentor
- Differentiated instruction
- Fluent in American Sign Language
- Lesson delivery
- Visual aids utilization
- IEP planning
Certification
- Mandated Reporter
- Dignity for All Students Act
- Educating All Students
- Autism
- NYS Certificate as Teacher of the Deaf
Languages
American Sign Language
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Teacher of the Deaf
CiTi BOCES
09.2025 - Current
Language Model 1:1
Jowonio School
09.2016 - 08.2023
Youth Program Director
WHOLE ME Inc.
09.2014 - Current
Direct Support Staff
Advocates Inc.
2014 - 2016
Direct Support Staff
Resource Center for Independent Living
2013 - 2014
Master of Science - Deaf Education
Rochester Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education With Deaf Studies
SUNY Empire State College
Associate of Applied Science - Early Childhood Education
Onondaga Community College