Dawn Figura-Stephens
Johnstown
Summary
Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Greater Johnstown School District, adept at fostering student engagement and collaboration. Skilled in differentiated instruction and literary analysis, I have successfully mentored new teachers and developed innovative lesson plans, enhancing literacy skills and promoting a culture of excellence. Passionate about student success and community involvement.
Self-motivated athletic professional with extensive experience in leadership positions and working with teams. Manages time efficiently and works well under pressure.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
8th Grade ELA Teacher
Greater Johnstown School District
08.1997 - Current
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards to enhance student literacy skills.
- Implemented differentiated instructional strategies to meet diverse learning needs of students.
- Utilized formative assessments to monitor student progress and adjust teaching methods accordingly.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment that encouraged student participation and collaboration.
- Mentored new teachers in curriculum development and classroom management techniques.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects integrating language arts with other subjects.
- Contributed to school-wide initiatives focused on improving overall academic achievement and promoting a culture of excellence among students.
- Supported diverse learners with differentiated instruction to accommodate various learning styles and abilities.
- Evaluated student performance using formative and summative assessments to adjust instruction as needed for optimal results.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in ELA education and curriculum trends.
- Planned and supervised class projects, field trips and visits by guest speakers.
- Administered and interpreted assessment results to determine learners' challenges.
- Integrated Smartboard and other instructional technologies into classroom.
- Devised and implemented classroom management strategies, maintaining safe and pleasant learning environment.
- Communicated with parents and guardians regarding student progress and behavioral issues.
- Implemented differentiated instruction to meet needs of diverse learners.
- Kept classroom organized, clean and safe for students and visitors.
- Helped students develop academic, social and emotional skills for long-term success.
- Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.
- Developed critical thinking skills through the use of analytical writing assignments and group projects.
- Served as a mentor for new teachers, sharing expertise and guidance for successful classroom management and instructional techniques.
- Evaluated academic skills of each student through verbal assessments, graded assignments, and standardized tests.
- Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
Basketball Referee
PIAA
08.1997 - Current
- Officiated competitive basketball games, ensuring adherence to rules and regulations.
- Maintained impartiality and fairness during high-pressure game situations.
- Communicated effectively with coaches and players to resolve disputes and clarify rules.
- Contributed to a positive game environment by maintaining a professional demeanor and interacting respectfully with players, coaches, and spectators.
- Promoted player respect for the sport by modeling appropriate behavior both on and off the court as a representative of officiating organizations.
Basketball Camp Counselor
Saint Francis University, Pitt, UPJ,
06.2013 - 2021
- Developed engaging basketball drills to enhance campers' skills and teamwork.
- Coordinated daily activities, ensuring smooth transitions between sessions and maintaining participant engagement.
- Monitored camper behavior, promoting safety standards and encouraging positive interactions among participants.
- Led instructional sessions on fundamental basketball techniques, fostering skill development in diverse age groups.
- Collaborated with fellow counselors to design and implement effective camp programs tailored to participants' needs.
- Provided personalized feedback to campers, assisting in their individual growth and performance improvement.
Recreation Coordinator
Johnstown Housing Authority
06.1993 - 1998
- Developed and implemented engaging recreational programs for diverse community groups.
- Coordinated schedules and logistics for events, ensuring smooth operation and participant satisfaction.
- Collaborated with local organizations to enhance program offerings and resource sharing.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering professional development and team cohesion in program delivery.
Education
Master of Science - Exercise Science
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, Pennsylvania, PA01-2002
Bachelor of Science - Education
Saint Francis University
Loretto, PA01-1992
High School Diploma -
Bishop McCort High School
Johnstown, PA01-1988
Skills
- Parent-teacher collaboration
- Collaborative teaching
- Teaching strategies
- Literary analysis
- SAP certified ( student assistance program)
- Summer school teacher
- Basketball Coach at all levels for over 25 yrs
- High School Volleyball Assistant
Timeline
Basketball Camp Counselor
Saint Francis University, Pitt, UPJ,
06.2013 - 2021
8th Grade ELA Teacher
Greater Johnstown School District
08.1997 - Current
Basketball Referee
PIAA
08.1997 - Current
Recreation Coordinator
Johnstown Housing Authority
06.1993 - 1998
Master of Science - Exercise Science
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Science - Education
Saint Francis University
High School Diploma -
Bishop McCort High School