CRYSTAL MCGOUGH-DIXON
Staten Island,NY
Summary
Dual-certified Preschool Teacher in General and Special Education, with experience supporting young learners, including children with autism, behavioral challenges, and speech/language delays. Skilled in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), collaborating with speech-language pathologists and related service providers, and using evidence-based practices to promote engagement, communication, and social growth, creating structured, nurturing classroom environments that support self-regulation, communication, and social development. Proficient in modeling and integrating AAC devices, and visual communication tools, to support expressive and receptive language development. Passionate about creating inclusive, supportive classroom environments that nurture the strengths of every child.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Children At Play Preschool
Staten Island, NY
09.2024 - Current
- Designed and implemented individualized instruction for students ages 3–5 with a range of disabilities, including autism, speech/language impairments, and developmental delays.
- Developed and monitored Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in collaboration with families, therapists, and multidisciplinary teams.
- Used evidence-based practices, including visual supports, structured routines, and positive behavior interventions, to support behavioral and emotional regulation.
- Modeled and integrated AAC devices and alternative communication strategies to support nonverbal and minimally verbal students.
- Created a nurturing, inclusive classroom environment focused on social, emotional, and cognitive development through play-based and structured learning.
- Conducted ongoing data collection and progress monitoring to inform instruction and drive IEP goal achievement.
- Partnered with related service providers (e.g., OT, PT, SLP) to deliver coordinated services within the classroom setting.
- Communicated regularly with families through conferences, daily notes, and home-school collaboration tools.
Lead Teacher
Georgia L. McMurray BAT Kids Center
Brooklyn, NY
10.2023 - 08.2024
- Planned and executed daily activities to foster student development and growth.
- Developed differentiated instruction strategies, enhancing engagement and success for diverse learning styles.
- Facilitated peer-to-peer learning opportunities, increasing collaboration and understanding among students.
- Designed project-based learning experiences to promote teamwork and real-world problem-solving skills.
- Supported social skill development through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Conducted assessments using TSG and ASQ-3 to track student progress.
- Maintained safe, clean environment conducive to children's thriving.
- Coordinated with parents and staff to meet individual children's needs.
Assistant Director/Lead Teacher
Nicoles Family Daycare
Brooklyn, NY
06.2016 - 07.2023
- Directed daily activities to ensure operational efficiency and staff engagement.
- Established a safe environment prioritizing children’s comfort and well-being.
- Maintained up-to-date training records for all staff members.
- Developed comprehensive 10-month lesson plans using Google Slides.
- Informed parents of enrollment procedures and essential policies.
- Recommended and interviewed potential staff hires to enhance team quality.
- Provided daily updates on children's health and emotional status to parents.
- Collaborated with Assistant Teachers to create engaging monthly themes and lesson plans.
3k Substitute Teacher
OLPH Brooklyn Catholic Academy
Brooklyn, NY
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Established a safe, engaging learning environment for children.
- Planned and executed developmentally appropriate indoor and outdoor educational activities.
- Assisted children with daily tasks including reading, writing, feeding, and toileting.
- Communicated effectively with families regarding children's progress and daily activities.
- Provided daily updates on children's health and emotional well-being to parents and guardians.
- Built trustful relationships with both children and their families.
- Implemented quality care practices to support child development.
Education
Master of Science - General and Special Education B-2
College of Mount Saint Vincent
Bronx, NY07.2024
Bachelors Degree -
College of Staten Island
Staten Island, NY05.2021
Associates Degree -
CUNY Kingsborough Community College
Brooklyn, NY06.2019
Skills
- Multitasking ability
- Leadership
- Pressure management
- Time management
- Classroom oversight
- Team collaboration
- Communication skills
- Health and safety compliance
- Creativity
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Children At Play Preschool
09.2024 - Current
Lead Teacher
Georgia L. McMurray BAT Kids Center
10.2023 - 08.2024
3k Substitute Teacher
OLPH Brooklyn Catholic Academy
01.2018 - 01.2020
Assistant Director/Lead Teacher
Nicoles Family Daycare
06.2016 - 07.2023
Master of Science - General and Special Education B-2
College of Mount Saint Vincent
Bachelors Degree -
College of Staten Island
Associates Degree -
CUNY Kingsborough Community College
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