Derek Gramza
Ann Arbor,MI
Summary
About Me:
Versatile and dedicated educator with a focus on the diverse and fluctuating individual needs of special education students. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of hands-on lessons. Exceptional skills working with teachers, parents and specialists to meet educational needs of all students.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Ann Arbor Public Schools
08.2022 - Current
- Taught in an upper elementary self-contained Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Classroom
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
- Led activities that developed students' physical, emotional, and social growth.
- Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
- Coordinated regular meetings to share and analyze student performance data and success plans with colleagues and parents.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Edustaff
11.2021 - 08.2022
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Took over class for regular classroom teacher, managing assignments, student needs, and recordkeeping.
- Communicated with parents regarding lesson plans and upcoming activities and provided feedback on student performance.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Researched and selected age-appropriate materials and resources for classroom instruction.
ABA Technician
Eastern Michigan University
10.2017 - 09.2021
- Provided 1-on-1 instruction to students on the Autism Spectrum ages 2-8
- Adapted instruction for individual student needs
- Developed relationships with students, families, and caregivers to support student growth
- Participated in regular professional development to improve instruction and intervention methods.
Assistant Teacher
Head Start for Kent County
08.2014 - 06.2017
- Instructed students ages 3-5
- Collaborated with teachers to plan and implement age-appropriate activities
- Created a safe and supportive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
Assistant Teacher
Winter Sun Schoolhouse
06.2012 - 08.2014
- Instructed students ages 6 months-5 years old
- Planned and performed children's music daily as a TA
- Used movement and sound to spark imagination and learning
- Collaborated with families and caregivers to support student development.
Assistant Teacher
Bright Futures
08.2010 - 05.2012
- Instructed students ages 6 months-4 years old
- Planned and performed music lessons regularly
- Encouraged play and learning through music and movement.
- Supported student physical, mental, and social development using classroom games and activities
Education
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI04.2022
Skills
- Social Skills Development
- Differentiated Instruction
- De-Escalation Techniques
- Parent Communication
- Collaborative Teamwork
Certification
Michigan Teacher Certification:
- (ZG) Elementary K-5 All Subjects (K-8 All Subjects in a self-contained classroom)
- (SE) K-8 EMOTIONAL IMPAIRMENT, K-12 Special Education
Adult and Child CPR/First-Aid
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Ann Arbor Public Schools
08.2022 - Current
Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Edustaff
11.2021 - 08.2022
ABA Technician
Eastern Michigan University
10.2017 - 09.2021
Assistant Teacher
Head Start for Kent County
08.2014 - 06.2017
Assistant Teacher
Winter Sun Schoolhouse
06.2012 - 08.2014
Assistant Teacher
Bright Futures
08.2010 - 05.2012
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Eastern Michigan University
Michigan Teacher Certification:
- (ZG) Elementary K-5 All Subjects (K-8 All Subjects in a self-contained classroom)
- (SE) K-8 EMOTIONAL IMPAIRMENT, K-12 Special Education
Adult and Child CPR/First-Aid
Similar Profiles
Katelyn PorterKatelyn Porter
Manager: Before/Aftercare and Summer Camp Program at Ann Arbor Public Schools Rec and EdManager: Before/Aftercare and Summer Camp Program at Ann Arbor Public Schools Rec and Ed
Janet MullinsJanet Mullins
Paraprofessional at Ann Arbor Public SchoolsParaprofessional at Ann Arbor Public Schools
SHERYL LUCASSHERYL LUCAS
Special Education Paraprofessional at Ann Arbor Public SchoolsSpecial Education Paraprofessional at Ann Arbor Public Schools