Cristina Lopez
Arvin,CA
Summary
Dedicated educator with extensive experience in providing instruction to students with special needs, currently pursuing an educational credential focused on fostering inclusive environments. Knowledge of behavior management techniques and individualized education plans.Passionate about creating supportive and engaging educational experiences that empower students to thrive.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
PreK/K Special Education Teacher
Bakersfield City School District
Bakersfield, CA
08.2025 - Current
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to enhance learning environments.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess student progress and adapt interventions.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Rafaello Palla Elementary- Greenfield Union School District
Bakersfield
01.2019 - 05.2022
- Assisted teachers in SDC preschool class and led center activities.
- Provided proper support to students with different learning delays.
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions inside and outside the classroom.
- Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Sing Lum Elementary- Panama Buena Vista Union School District
Bakersfield, CA
09.2016 - 10.2018
- Assist teachers in an autism special day pre-school class
- Provided proper support to students with different behaviors
- Led daily centers activities, using Second Step curriculum, Touch Math
- Aided students in daily living activities
- Assisted in the implementation of effective behavior management techniques, resulting in a more focused and positive classroom environment.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Bear Mountain Elementary- Arvin Union School District
Arvin, CA
08.2014 - 09.2016
- I attended training that pertained to my job, such as CPR classes, Crisis Prevention Intervention classes, and Autism Spectrum Disorder training.
- Collaborated with teachers to create customized classroom environments integral to students' needs.
- Offered student support through special accommodations, extra assistance, and assessments.
- Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Integrated Studies: Emphasis in Education
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA05-2025
Skills
- IEP compliance
- Differentiated instruction
- Lesson planning
- Data collection
- Life skills development
- Cultural awareness
- Parent-teacher collaboration
- De-escalation techniques
Certification
Multiple Subject Credential
Mild Moderate Extensive Support Needs Credential Major- expected 2026
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
PreK/K Special Education Teacher
Bakersfield City School District
08.2025 - Current
Special Education Paraprofessional
Rafaello Palla Elementary- Greenfield Union School District
01.2019 - 05.2022
Special Education Paraprofessional
Sing Lum Elementary- Panama Buena Vista Union School District
09.2016 - 10.2018
Special Education Paraprofessional
Bear Mountain Elementary- Arvin Union School District
08.2014 - 09.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Integrated Studies: Emphasis in Education
Point Loma Nazarene University