Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Debra Martin

Chicago,IL

Summary

Professional educator with strong background in developing and implementing engaging curriculum. Adept at fostering collaborative learning environment that encourages student growth and achievement. Skilled in classroom management, lesson planning, and adapting to diverse educational needs. Known for reliability and flexibility, ensuring smooth and effective teaching operations.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience

Work History

Education Operations/Student Support Professional

Chicago Public Schools, John J. Audubon Elementary
Chicago, IL
08.2024 - Current

Instructional Support Specialist

  • Assisted teachers in classroom management and lesson implementation.
  • Supported student engagement through interactive learning activities and discussions.
  • Adapted instructional materials for diverse learning needs and styles.
  • Provided agile classroom coverage, stepping into last-minute teaching roles without interruption to student learning or school scheduling.
  • Leveraged prior pedagogical experience to deliver absent-teacher curriculum, ensuring continuity in educational standards and classroom culture.
  • Supported inclusive learning in multi-teacher environments, specifically assisting students with diverse special needs to reach their daily goals.

Administrative/Records Coordinator

  • Served as the primary point of contact for the front office, managing a high volume of inquiries and solving daily operational challenges for students and staff.
  • Owned centralized records management for a population of 600+ students distributed across two campus locations, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
  • Facilitated parent-school relations by acting as a proactive liaison, communicating vital information, and addressing concerns with empathy and clarity.

Lunchroom Operations Manager

  • Directed daily logistics for the 400+ student lunch block (ages 5-14), ensuring seamless transitions and strict adherence to time-management schedules.
  • Prioritized student safety by implementing and monitoring supervision protocols during high traffic periods.
  • Promoted nutritional wellness by encouraging healthy eating habits and fostering a positive dining experience.

Elementary and Middle School Educator

Chicago Public Schools
Chicago, Illinois
08.2000 - 06.2009
  • Provided comprehensive educational services, emphasizing reading and social science skills, to elementary and middle school students.
  • Collaborated effectively in a team-teaching environment, promoting a positive and productive learning atmosphere.
  • Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
  • Actively participated in Math and Language Arts committees, contributing to curriculum development and improvement.
  • Facilitated classroom management strategies to foster a positive learning environment.
  • Utilized differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles, resulting in improved student comprehension.
  • Enhanced overall student engagement by incorporating interactive activities and group work into lessons.
  • Kept classroom environments consistent and focused on learning by establishing and enforcing clear objectives.

Education

Master of Science - Education

Governors State University
University Park, IL

Bachelor of Arts - Education

St. Xavier University
Chicago, IL

Skills

  • Classroom management
  • Relationship building
  • Critical thinking
  • Student engagement
  • Behavior management
  • Parent-teacher communication
  • Student-centered learning
  • Growth mindset
  • Flexible and adaptive

Timeline

Education Operations/Student Support Professional

Chicago Public Schools, John J. Audubon Elementary
08.2024 - Current

Elementary and Middle School Educator

Chicago Public Schools
08.2000 - 06.2009

Master of Science - Education

Governors State University

Bachelor of Arts - Education

St. Xavier University