Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

DEBORAH HARRISON

CAPITOL HEIGHTS,MD

Summary

Experienced with developing and implementing individualized education plans for students with diverse learning needs. Utilizes effective behavior management techniques to create positive and inclusive classroom environment. Track record of collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to support student success and development.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Teacher

Samuel P Massie
02.2025 - Current
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.

Program Assistant

Foundations Learning Center
03.2023 - Current
  • Teaching life skills through education by encouraging and supporting the development of professional skills, hobbies and student interest.
  • An interest in helping people regardless of their condition interest in helping other people.
  • The ability to communicate clearly and sensitively when talking to people and their families.
  • Good listening skills.
  • Great problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt and act accordingly to situations.
  • Good time management skills to be able to support the needs of multiple people.
  • The ability to keep up with changing standards and codes of conduct in the social care sector.
  • The ability to work both alone and as part of a team.
  • A high level of patience and emotional resilience.

Academic Support Specialist

Maya Angelou Public School
09.2020 - 06.2022
  • Provide academic support as a classroom assistant during assigned times in the CTE classroom and study hall.
  • Work with scholars assigned to APEX classes based on individual scholar schedule needs.
  • Work with post-secondary/college prep scholars during their individual schedule time on APEX courses, SAT prep, and other pull-out classes as needed.
  • Support the Instructional Team as a substitute teacher where coverage is needed.
  • Attend all Instructional Team meetings.
  • Model and contribute to a school culture of hope and high expectations for achievement.
  • Participate in a wide range of school activities, including off-site retreats, family days, and school celebrations.
  • Other duties as assigned depending on individual scholar needs and school needs.
  • Refer students for alternative services as provided by the district (ESL, Reading, Special Reading).

Assistant Teacher

Maya Angelou Public School
09.2018 - 08.2021
  • Experience in implementation child development and academic support for all students.
  • Assist teacher with classroom management strategies by developing appropriate behavior interventions.
  • Maintains effective communication while providing support to the Special Education teacher.
  • Provides one-on-one educational sessions with special needs children and provide emotional support and social support for students.
  • Supervise students in class, between classes, during lunch, and recess, and on field trips to support behavior management.

Career Preparation Instructor

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/POTOMAC JOB CORPS CENTER
01.2003 - 09.2018
  • Performed a variety of workforce development strategies.
  • Assisted youth and young adults with all aspects of their career development.
  • Provided assessments, career exploration, career planning, and follow-ups.
  • Supported job retention and career advancement skills in the workplace.
  • Demonstrated job search skills including computer fluency.
  • Created a personal career development plan (PCDP) for students.
  • Communication liaison between Counselors, Vocational Instructors, and Academic Instructors.
  • Encouraged students’ decisions about career pathways; and identifying personal interests, skills strengths, experience, and goals.
  • Defined short and long-term employment goals.
  • Created employability programs and activities while utilizing Microsoft Word/Office, Microsoft Excel.

Academic Instructor

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/POTOMAC JOB CORPS
05.2003 - 01.2015
  • Developed and prepared and conducted lesson used by recommended curricula along with supplement material.
  • Instructed students regarding their academic needs and refers them for additional assistance as needed.
  • Established and maintained current course syllabi and outlines; prepares lecture and class materials.
  • Informed students about course requirements, evaluation procedures, and attendance policies.
  • Utilizes a variety of instructional strategies, techniques and delivery methods designed to meet the individual learning styles of students.
  • Participates in professional development activities and stays current in my field.

Test Administrator

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/POTOMAC JOB CORPS
08.2003 - 05.2007
  • Administered the OPT test Official Practice Test.
  • Explain Testing Procedures to applicants.
  • Assisting examinees with disabilities.
  • Knowledge of planning and scheduling techniques.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Knowledge of computer-based testing and machine scoring.
  • Database management skills.
  • Knowledge of educational development test administration and interpretation.
  • Skills in the management of computerized testing systems, processes, and facilities, to include hardware, software.
  • Ability to develop and implement policies and procedures for the administration of standardized tests.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.

Education

Bachelors of Business Administration -

Colorado Technical University

Associates Degree in Business Administration -

Western International University

Skills

  • Over 20 years of service in youth development and youth services sector
  • Leadership in student motivation
  • Creating inclusive learning environments
  • Certified in conflict resolution
  • Instruct student with emotional and intellectual disabilities
  • Identifying student growth areas

Timeline

Special Education Teacher

Samuel P Massie
02.2025 - Current

Program Assistant

Foundations Learning Center
03.2023 - Current

Academic Support Specialist

Maya Angelou Public School
09.2020 - 06.2022

Assistant Teacher

Maya Angelou Public School
09.2018 - 08.2021

Test Administrator

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/POTOMAC JOB CORPS
08.2003 - 05.2007

Academic Instructor

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/POTOMAC JOB CORPS
05.2003 - 01.2015

Career Preparation Instructor

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR/POTOMAC JOB CORPS CENTER
01.2003 - 09.2018

Bachelors of Business Administration -

Colorado Technical University

Associates Degree in Business Administration -

Western International University