Dana Henderson
DeSoto
Summary
Dedicated elementary educator with classroom experience in early childhood and elementary instruction within rigorous college-preparatory school environments. Skilled in classroom management, differentiated instruction, lesson planning, student engagement, and supporting diverse learning needs. Experienced teaching accelerated Pre-K4 curriculum aligned with kindergarten readiness standards as well as 3rd Grade Science and Social Studies instruction. Passionate about fostering structured, engaging, and achievement-focused learning environments that support student success.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
3rd Grade Social Studies Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA AW Brown
07.2025 - Current
- Provided TEKS-aligned Social Studies instruction focused on geography, citizenship, communities, history, culture, and civic responsibility.
- Developed interactive lesson plans that strengthened student understanding of historical concepts, critical thinking, and collaborative discussion.
- Maintained structured classroom management systems that promoted positive student engagement and academic accountability.
- Collaborated with grade-level instructional teams to support curriculum pacing, academic interventions, and student achievement goals.
- Supported family engagement through ongoing parent communication and student progress updates.
- Participated in campus recruitment initiatives, professional development, and school-wide instructional support activities.
- 2025 – 2026 School Year
3rd Grade Science Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA AW Brown
07.2025 - Current
- Delivered TEKS-aligned Science instruction focused on scientific inquiry, life science, earth science, and hands-on laboratory activities.
- Developed engaging lesson plans that promoted problem-solving, critical thinking, and student participation within a structured classroom environment.
- Incorporated educational technology, collaborative learning, and interactive science activities to increase student engagement and academic growth.
- Used assessment data to identify instructional needs and implement targeted academic interventions.
- Communicated regularly with parents and guardians regarding student academic progress and classroom performance.
- Participated in professional development, instructional planning meetings, and campus-wide academic initiatives.
- 2025 – 2026 School Year
Pre-K4 Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA AW Brown
08.2024 - 05.2025
- Delivered accelerated Pre-K4 instruction using curriculum aligned with kindergarten readiness standards within a rigorous college-preparatory academic model.
- Implemented daily lessons in literacy, foundational mathematics, science, and social studies designed to prepare students for academic advancement.
- Developed lesson plans, managed classroom routines, and implemented positive behavior management strategies to maximize student engagement and learning.
- Used differentiated instruction and small-group learning strategies to support diverse student learning needs and developmental levels.
- Monitored student progress through classroom assessments, observational data, and instructional interventions.
- Maintained ongoing communication with parents regarding student academic progress, behavior, and classroom expectations.
- Participated in weekly professional development sessions and instructional collaboration meetings focused on curriculum implementation and student achievement.
- Assisted with student recruitment and enrollment initiatives through campus events and scheduled Saturday recruitment activities throughout the school year.
- 2024 – 2025 School Year
Paraprofessional – Self-Contained Classroom
Irving Independent School District
02.2022 - 07.2023
- Supported students with diverse academic, behavioral, and developmental needs in self-contained special education classroom settings.
- Assisted with classroom instruction, lesson implementation, behavior management, and student engagement strategies.
- Provided one-on-one and small-group instructional support to reinforce academic concepts and classroom participation.
- Led classroom instruction and supervised students in the absence of the classroom teacher.
- Supported students across multiple instructional and developmental levels while maintaining a structured and safe learning environment.
- Collaborated with teachers, administrators, therapists, and families to support student success and classroom safety.
- Completed CPR and safety training for working with self-contained and special education students.
Childcare Educator
Learning Adventure Children’s
04.2016 - 10.2021
- Developed and implemented interactive lesson plans focused on foundational early childhood learning skills.
- Delivered individualized and small-group instruction to support developmental growth and school readiness.
- Established structured classroom routines and positive behavior management systems.
- Maintained a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment for young learners.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding student development and classroom progress.
Education
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Liberal Arts
Texas College
Tyler, Texas05.2022
Texas Teachers of Tomorrow Certification Program -
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Differentiated Instruction
- Lesson Planning
- Small-Group Instruction
- Special Education Support
- Self-Contained Classroom Experience
- TEKS-Aligned Instruction
- Educational Technology
- Behavioral Support Strategies
- Parent Communication
- Academic Intervention Support
- CPR/First Aid Certified
Timeline
3rd Grade Social Studies Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA AW Brown
07.2025 - Current
3rd Grade Science Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA AW Brown
07.2025 - Current
Pre-K4 Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA AW Brown
08.2024 - 05.2025
Paraprofessional – Self-Contained Classroom
Irving Independent School District
02.2022 - 07.2023
Childcare Educator
Learning Adventure Children’s
04.2016 - 10.2021
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Liberal Arts
Texas College