Dana Derissaint
Auburn,AL
Summary
Special education teacher with a strong focus on enhancing student strengths and confidence. Expertise in establishing structured routines and dependable guidelines to promote social and academic development. Proven track record of fostering an inclusive learning environment that supports diverse learning needs.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Beauregard Elementary
Opelika, Alabama
07.2019 - 05.2026
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Collaborated with parents and staff to enhance student support.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Adapted curriculum materials to meet individualized student needs.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Trained support staff on special education best practices.
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Advocated for the needs of students with disabilities.
Second and Fourth Grade Teacher
Loachapoka Elementary
Loachapoka, AL
07.2002 - 05.2019
- Developed engaging lesson plans for diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment to enhance student participation.
- Implemented effective classroom management strategies to maintain order.
- Collaborated with parents to address student needs and progress updates.
First Grade Teacher
Fairfax Elementary
Valley, Alabama
09.2001 - 05.2002
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Created a positive classroom environment fostering student participation.
- Conducted assessments to monitor student growth and understanding.
- Collaborated with parents to support student academic progress.
- Organized classroom resources for effective teaching and learning activities.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education K-6, Collaborative Education K-6
Troy State University
01-2001
High school or equivalent -
Anniston High School
01-1989
Skills
- Individualized education plans
- IEP and BIP implementation
- Curriculum adaptation
- Progress monitoring
- Behavior management
- Differentiated instruction
- Small group instruction
- Collaborative teaching
- Classroom management
- Parent communication
- De-escalation techniques
- MS office proficient
- Special needs advocacy
Volunteer Experience
- Dothan Leisure Services, Therapeutic Day Camp and Life Skill Classes, 2000-2015
- Dothan Leisure Services, Annual Talent Show, 2004-2007
- Haiti Mission Team, 2012-2016, Coordinator, 01/01/16, 06/01/16
Leadership Committee Opportunities
- Student Council Sponsor
- BBSST Chairperson
- Climate Committee Chairperson
- Textbook Chairperson
- Social Studies Curriculum Development School Representative
- Title I Committee
- Positive Behavioral Support (PBS) Team Coordinator
- Grade Level Representative
- Mentor Teacher
Honors And Awards
- Delta Kappa Gamma
- Kappa Delta Pi
- Dean’s List
- President’s List
- Who’s Who Among American Teachers 2007
- Lee County Educator of the Quarter Fall 2006
- Loachapoka Elementary Teacher of the Year 2012-2013
- Community Service Award 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003
- Instructional Teamwork Award 2005
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Beauregard Elementary
07.2019 - 05.2026
Second and Fourth Grade Teacher
Loachapoka Elementary
07.2002 - 05.2019
First Grade Teacher
Fairfax Elementary
09.2001 - 05.2002
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education K-6, Collaborative Education K-6
Troy State University
High school or equivalent -
Anniston High School