Kenny VanHouten
Canton
Summary
A seasoned educator from Canton Union School District 66, I excel in fostering inclusive education and implementing differentiated instruction. My collaborative efforts in curriculum development and targeted literacy interventions have significantly enhanced student engagement and achievement. Skilled in parent-teacher communication and organizational prowess, I thrive in dynamic, growth-oriented environments. Enthusiastic about driving student success and facilitating positive school culture.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
4th Grade Teacher
Canton Union School District 66
Canton IL
08.2011 - Current
- Collaborated with fellow teachers to design interdisciplinary lesson plans, reinforcing key concepts across subjects.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, establishing clear expectations and consequences while fostering a respectful learning environment.
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, addressing the unique needs of each student in the classroom.
- Utilized assessment data to inform instructional decisions, tailoring lesson plans to target areas needing improvement.
- Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and adjusting instructional approaches as needed.
- Contributed to the development of annual curriculum maps, ensuring alignment with state standards and grade-level objectives.
- Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and innovative teaching techniques.
Paraprofessional
Canton Union School District 66
Canton, IL
02.2005 - 05.2008
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
- Improved classroom management by assisting teachers with behavioral interventions and monitoring student progress.
- Supervised students during non-instructional periods such as lunch, recess, or field trips, ensuring safety at all times.
- Enhanced student support by delivering one-on-one and small group assistance in various subjects.
- Supported special education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with diverse learning needs.
Reading Aide
Canton Union School District 66
Canton, IL
01.2004 - 02.2005
- Conducted ongoing evaluations of program effectiveness, making necessary adjustments based on student performance data and feedback from stakeholders.
- Collaborated with classroom teachers to design individualized reading support plans for struggling readers.
- Enhanced student reading comprehension by implementing targeted literacy interventions.
- Supported the development of students'' critical thinking skills by guiding them through close reading and text analysis activities.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL05-2011
Associate of Arts -
Lincoln College
Lincoln, Illinois, IL05-2003
High School Diploma -
Canton High School
Canton Illinois05-2001
Skills
- Parent-teacher communication
- Growth mindset
- Project-based learning
- Collaborative learning
- Inclusive education
- Student engagement
- Social-emotional learning
- Organizational skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Relationship building
- Team collaboration
- Multitasking and organization
Roles
- Served as 4th Grade Chair for last 10 years
- Lincoln Leadership Team
- Lincoln Problem Solving Team
- Leader in PLC Development
- Mentorship Role for Many new teachers
- Ingersoll Middle School Baseball Coach
- CHS Volunteer Baseball Coach
Timeline
4th Grade Teacher
Canton Union School District 66
08.2011 - Current
Paraprofessional
Canton Union School District 66
02.2005 - 05.2008
Reading Aide
Canton Union School District 66
01.2004 - 02.2005
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Western Illinois University
Associate of Arts -
Lincoln College
High School Diploma -
Canton High School