Cheryl Pearce
Rose Hill,NC
Summary
I am a former instructional assistant with 11 years of substituting experience in public schools, finding the exceptional population my cherished. When the opportunity became available, I was hired as a full-time instructional assistant for almost eight years. I am now hoping to work closer to home. My expertise with our exceptional population is first in their emotional well-being, followed by supporting and fostering engaging life skills and learning environments. My heart is dedicated to helping each one excel to their capabilities. My strong communication skills and adaptability enhance relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. During the early COVID closure of schools, I was able to take an online course for a Registered Behavioral Technician and passed with a high score. Being given the course as a professional development opportunity, I was not allowed the opportunity to gain the credentials. Nevertheless, I was afforded the knowledge of an RBT's structure. The knowledge from what I gained allowed me further insight as to help my students excel in their individual goals.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Exceptional Children Instructional Assistant
Heide Trask High School / Pender County Schools
Rocky Point, NC
02.2017 - 03.2025
- Supported students facing physical, emotional, or learning challenges through tailored interventions.
- Fostered positive relationships with students, parents, and community partners to enhance collaboration.
- Assisted special education teachers in classroom instruction to improve student engagement.
- Delivered individual and small group instruction in reading, math, and writing for students with disabilities.
- Implemented behavior management strategies developed by teachers or behavioral specialists.
- Monitored student progress and communicated findings to educators.
- Organized data collection systems utilizing technology such as spreadsheets and databases.
- Maintained records of student performance in compliance with school policies.
- Attended training sessions on best practices for working with students with special needs.
- Communicated effectively with parents regarding student progress and concerns.
- Organized instructional materials and activities for special education classrooms.
- Distributed classroom materials, pencils, paper and art materials.
- Prepared lesson materials, bulletin board displays, exhibits, and demonstrations to assist teachers in classroom preparation.
- Provided classroom support throughout planned instruction and individual lessons.
- Graded assignments.
- Cleaned and organized classrooms, materials, and supplies.
- Monitored students in class, hallways, and cafeteria to enforce school rules.
- Participated in professional development workshops to stay current with educational trends and methodologies.
- Proctored examinations and monitored for cheating.
Substitute Teacher
Pender County Schools
Burgaw, NC
03.2006 - 02.2017
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance and performance.
- Promoted a safe and secure atmosphere within the classroom setting.
- Assisted with classroom management issues when needed.
- Created an environment conducive to learning while managing challenging behaviors.
- Implemented classroom rules to maintain order and discipline.
- Requested as substitute teacher based on excellent referrals and trusted performance.
- Encouraged student participation and active learning in the classroom.
- Assessed student understanding through informal and formal methods.
- Engaged students in discussions to promote interest and drive learning.
- Developed and enforced behavioral management plans.
- Fostered a positive learning environment that promoted mutual respect.
- Integrated real-world examples to make learning relevant and engaging.
- Showed Powerpoint Presentations, videos and interactive websites to aid students with comprehension.
- Maintained classroom order and enforced school and class rules.
- Supervised students during recess, break times and dismissal periods to prevent injuries and fights.
- Followed established lesson plans to continue learning trajectory.
- Answered student questions about course concepts.
- Distributed worksheets and homework assignments from head teacher to assist with classroom operations.
- Led or moderated classroom discussions and guided exploratory thought.
- Left notes for head teacher about notable students, events and problems.
- Provided instruction and guidance to students in the absence of a regular teacher.
- Utilized various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, audio-visual presentations.
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies based on individual student needs.
- Integrated technology into lessons whenever possible.
- Supported special needs students by providing individual instruction as needed.
- Provided classroom instruction following regular teacher's lesson plans.
- Enforced classroom routines to keep students on schedule and operating at consistent level.
- Provided notes and reports on school day activities to primary teacher.
- Operated computers or audio-visual aids to supplement class presentations.
- Took attendance and maintained attendance records during period as substitute.
- Addressed rowdy and uncooperative students by speaking firmly and informing head teacher of transgressions.
- Graded student assignments and exams and discussed results.
4y Preschool Teacher
Winter Park Baptist Church
Wilmington, NC
09.2004 - 01.2006
- Incorporated music, art, games, books, blocks, puzzles into daily instruction.
- Monitored student behavior to ensure compliance with rules and expectations set forth by school administration.
- Attended professional development workshops to stay current on best practices for early childhood education.
- Provided guidance regarding nutrition and healthy habits during snack time.
- Integrated multicultural themes into instruction plans to foster respect for diversity among students.
- Assisted in providing a safe and secure environment for children.
- Adapted instructional methods based on individual student needs.
- Established positive relationships with parents and guardians by regularly communicating student progress.
- Facilitated group play activities that encouraged collaboration among students.
- Organized educational materials and resources to create an engaging learning environment.
- Supervised outdoor playtime while ensuring safety regulations were followed.
- Conducted classroom activities to stimulate physical, mental, and social development of preschool students.
- Observed children to record development.
- Participated in workshops, trainings and conferences to improve educational skills.
- Organized creative and fun activities, enhancing children's physical, emotional and social well-being.
- Monitored student progress to ensure cooperation and growth.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Special Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA01-2018
Associate of Science - General Studies
University of Mount Olive
Mount Olive, NC05-2016
Early Childhood Credentials -
Cape Fear Community College
Wilmington, NC04-2004
High School Diploma -
Emsley A. Laney
Wilmington, NC06-1985
Skills
- Student progress monitoring
- Behavior management
- Special education support
- Data collection systems
- Individual instruction
- Classroom organization
- Collaboration with parents
- Instructional material preparation
- Professional development participation
- Effective communication
Timeline
Exceptional Children Instructional Assistant
Heide Trask High School / Pender County Schools
02.2017 - 03.2025
Substitute Teacher
Pender County Schools
03.2006 - 02.2017
4y Preschool Teacher
Winter Park Baptist Church
09.2004 - 01.2006
Some College (No Degree) - Special Education
Liberty University
Associate of Science - General Studies
University of Mount Olive
Early Childhood Credentials -
Cape Fear Community College
High School Diploma -
Emsley A. Laney
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