CHRISTINE THINGSTAD
Bakersfield,CA
Summary
Special Education Teacher equipped with positive attitude and patience vital to teaching children with special needs. Experience creating innovative lesson plans and comfortable learning environments. A focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development is a top priority. Ability to design and implement hands-on lessons, catering to diverse learning abilities. Proficient in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
8TH GRADE SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER - SDC
FAIRFAX JUNIOR HIGH
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Monitored student performance to evaluate effectiveness of instructional strategies.
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
KENDRICK ELEMENTARY/GREENFIELD UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Planned daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
GREENFIELD UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
08.2018 - 05.2022
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Enhanced classroom management by implementing positive reinforcement strategies and maintaining clear expectations for behavior.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
PANAMA-BUENA VISTA UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
01.2019 - 03.2022
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.
- Supervised lunchroom and recess activities.
- Boosted student engagement with interactive lessons, incorporating real-world examples and hands-on activities.
CLAIMS SPECIALIST
STATE FARM
02.2005 - 04.2018
- Enhanced customer satisfaction with timely communication, empathy, and clear explanations of claim outcomes.
- Managed a high volume of claims effectively by prioritizing tasks and maintaining excellent organizational skills.
- Settled complex claims fairly by applying critical thinking, negotiation skills, and detailed knowledge of insurance policies.
- Handled high-pressure situations with professionalism and composure, consistently achieving positive outcomes for both clients and the organization.
- Reviewed insurance and claims documents to verify required information and secure any missing data for settlements.
- Enhanced customer trust and satisfaction by efficiently resolving claims disputes.
Education
MASTER OF ARTS - INCLUSIVE EDUCATION -
UNIVERSITY OF LA VERNE
LA VERNE, CA01.2022
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE - BUSINESS MANAGEMENT -
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - GLOBAL CAMPUS
AURORA, CO01.2016
Skills
- Verbal and Written Communication
- Information Confidentiality
- IEP writing and Implementation
- Assessments
- Multitasking and Organization
- Documentation and Reporting
- Assigning and Grading Work
- Whole class and Small Group Instruction
- Lesson Planning and Implementation
- Differentiated Instruction
- Classroom Management
- Social Skills Development
Activities
- Active at McKee Road Baptist Church
- Sings in the choir
- Participates in nursery and children's Sunday School classes
- Works with younger children in Vacation Bible School
- Church clerk
- Volunteered in Christian School
Timeline
8TH GRADE SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER - SDC
FAIRFAX JUNIOR HIGH
08.2023 - 06.2024
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
KENDRICK ELEMENTARY/GREENFIELD UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
08.2022 - 06.2023
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
PANAMA-BUENA VISTA UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
01.2019 - 03.2022
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
GREENFIELD UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
08.2018 - 05.2022
CLAIMS SPECIALIST
STATE FARM
02.2005 - 04.2018
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE - BUSINESS MANAGEMENT -
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - GLOBAL CAMPUS
MASTER OF ARTS - INCLUSIVE EDUCATION -
UNIVERSITY OF LA VERNE
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