CRYSTAL HOWARD
Chesapeake,VA
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate education and counseling professional with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s in School Counseling. Extensive experience supporting student development across classroom, after-school, and therapeutic settings. Skilled in classroom management, individualized instruction, crisis intervention, and collaboration with educators and families. Proven leader with experience supervising staff, ensuring program compliance, and fostering safe, inclusive learning environments. Registered QMHP-Trainee with a strong commitment to student success and emotional well-being.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Teacher Assistant
Chesapeake Public Schools
08.2025 - Current
- Support classroom instruction by working with students individually and in small groups to reinforce learning concepts
- Assist with classroom management by maintaining structure and promoting positive behavior
- Provide targeted support for students with diverse learning needs, including those requiring additional academic assistance
- Collaborate with lead teachers to monitor student progress and address academic or behavioral concerns
- Communicate effectively with staff and families to support student success
Intensive In-Home Counselor
Solution-Focused Counseling Group
08.2024 - 08.2025
- Delivered individual, family, and group counseling to improve emotional and behavioral outcomes
- Developed and implemented individualized service plans and progress reports
- Provided crisis intervention and ongoing case management support
- Collaborated with schools, families, and community providers
English Language Learner (ELL) Teacher Assistant (Summer)
Chesapeake Public Schools
06.2025 - 07.2025
- Assisted in delivering instruction focused on English language development
- Supported students in small groups to strengthen comprehension and communication skills
- Helped prepare instructional materials and classroom activities
- Promoted an inclusive environment by supporting cultural diversity and student advocacy
- Collaborated with teachers to implement strategies for multilingual learners
All-In Tutor
Chesapeake Public Schools
11.2024 - 06.2025
- Provided individualized and small-group academic support to students at risk of falling behind
- Identified learning gaps and implemented targeted interventions to improve performance
- Reinforced foundational skills to support long-term academic success
- Monitored and documented student progress
Therapeutic Day Treatment Facilitator
Levoc Family Services
10.2023 - 08.2024
- Provided in-school therapeutic support and crisis response for students
- Collaborated with teachers to implement behavioral and treatment strategies
- Observed and assessed student behavior to guide interventions
- Prepared discharge summaries and maintained accurate documentation
Site Director / Assistant Camp Director
YMCA
04.2023 - 08.2023
- Supervised staff and promoted a collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Ensured compliance with child safety policies and licensing standards
- Maintained proper staff-to-child ratios and program safety
- Led youth programs focused on development and engagement
Preschool Teacher
YMCA
09.2021 - 03.2022
- Supported early childhood development through structured learning activities
- Assisted students with foundational academic and social skills
- Created a safe, engaging classroom environment
Before & After School Counselor
YMCA
09.2017 - 03.2022
- Supervised and supported children in academic and recreational activities
- Assisted with homework and skill-building exercises
- Promoted core values such as respect, responsibility, and teamwork
- Ensured a safe and structured environment
Team Member
McDonald’s
09.2015 - 08.2017
- Developed strong customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Maintained cleanliness and adherence to safety standards
- Additional Experience
Education
Master of Science - School Counseling
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA12-2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA08-2021
Associate of Science - undefined
Tidewater Community College
Norfolk, VA01-2018
Skills
- Classroom Management & Student Engagement
- Individualized Instruction & Academic Support
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Behavior Management Strategies
- Youth Development & Mentorship
- Parent & Family Communication
- Lesson Preparation & Activity Planning
- Cultural Competency & Inclusion
- Case Management & Documentation
- First Aid & CPR Certified Mandated Reporter
- Positive attitude
- Calm and patient demeanor
- Computer skills
- Collaborative teamwork
- Relationship building
- Classroom preparation and maintenance
- Student supervision
- Small group instruction
Certification
- QMHP-Trainee (Qualified Mental Health Professional)
- First Aid & CPR Certified
- Mandated Reporter Training
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Child Abuse & Neglect Training
- Dyslexia & Cultural Competency Training
Timeline
Teacher Assistant
Chesapeake Public Schools
08.2025 - Current
English Language Learner (ELL) Teacher Assistant (Summer)
Chesapeake Public Schools
06.2025 - 07.2025
All-In Tutor
Chesapeake Public Schools
11.2024 - 06.2025
Intensive In-Home Counselor
Solution-Focused Counseling Group
08.2024 - 08.2025
Therapeutic Day Treatment Facilitator
Levoc Family Services
10.2023 - 08.2024
Site Director / Assistant Camp Director
YMCA
04.2023 - 08.2023
Preschool Teacher
YMCA
09.2021 - 03.2022
Before & After School Counselor
YMCA
09.2017 - 03.2022
Team Member
McDonald’s
09.2015 - 08.2017
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Old Dominion University
Associate of Science - undefined
Tidewater Community College
Master of Science - School Counseling
Old Dominion University