Donna Gayle Johnson
Perry
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated educator with extensive experience in classroom instruction in the special education and adult education world. A proven ability to engage students, parents, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Expertise in managing classroom dynamics, addressing potential disruptions, and facilitating productive conversations regarding student progress and challenges. Specialized in developing Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and coordinating state testing for students with disabilities, ensuring all learners receive support on their path to graduation. Exceptionally knowledgeable about special education law and day to day workings of the special education departments in school districts. Equipped with advanced skills in educational technology and a strong foundation in both traditional and online teaching methodologies, enhancing the learning experience for adult learners and high school students.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Adult Education (GED) Teacher
Big Bend Technical College
Perry, FL
08.2022 - Current
- Achieved high levels of student engagement through innovative classroom instruction in adult education and GED program. Increased student preparedness for general equivalency exam by providing tailored support and mentorship. Streamlined classroom management and record-keeping processes, resulting in improved data reporting. Cultivated student awareness of career and postsecondary opportunities while maintaining proactive communication with parents. Utilized technology effectively to enhance learning experiences both in school and at home.
Night/Summer Adult Education (GED) Teacher
Big Bend Technical College
Perry, FL
08.2017 - Current
- Achieved high levels of student engagement through innovative classroom instruction in adult education and GED program. Increased student preparedness for general equivalency exam by providing tailored support and mentorship. Streamlined classroom management and record-keeping processes, resulting in improved data reporting. Cultivated student awareness of career and postsecondary opportunities while maintaining proactive communication with parents. Utilized technology effectively to enhance learning experiences both in school and at home.
ESE Specialist (grades 6-12)
Taylor County School District
Perry, FL
08.2013 - 07.2022
- Maintained effective IEP development through strategic coordination of meeting times with parents and teachers. Enhanced communication by facilitating parent/teacher conferences and student/teacher meetings, resulting in improved collaboration. Provided essential counseling and graduation coaching for students with disabilities, contributing to their academic success. Championed initiatives as chairperson of the ESE department and testing committee while actively participating in the 504 committee, graduation committee, dropout prevention committee, and MTSS/RTI committee. Contributed to the early warning system committee and additional groups as requested.
Middle School Teacher (grades 6-8)
TOVA Department of Juvenile Justice Center
Greenville, FL
04.2013 - 07.2013
- Oversaw educational programs for incarcerated youth, focusing on reading, math, social studies, and science. Implemented technology to enhance classroom discipline and record-keeping. Collaborated with parents and teachers to monitor student progress and provide necessary counseling.
High School Reading Teacher (grades 9-12)
Jefferson County High School
Monticello, FL
08.2012 - 03.2013
- Assisted in delivering reading instruction for students with learning challenges to improve literacy skills. Supported classroom management through the implementation of technology solutions for discipline and record-keeping. Worked with parents and teachers to set goals for student achievement. Provided progress updates and counseling to address individual student needs.
Finance Manager
Foley Contractors, Inc.
11.2007 - 07.2012
- Provided seamless financial operations through effective management of daily tasks. Conducted payroll tax processes and improved client communication. Maintained accounts receivable and accounts payable functions. Enhanced fleet management and proactively addressed business-related issues.
ESE Resource Teacher (grades 6-8)
Taylor County Middle School
Perry, FL
08.1999 - 10.2007
- Achieved significant improvements in student engagement and learning outcomes for learning disabled students in ESE program through effective instruction in reading, math, and language arts. Leveraged technology to create an interactive classroom environment that fostered learning. Developed and maintained comprehensive discipline records and set measurable goals to track student progress. Strengthened parent-teacher relationships through regular conferences and provided necessary counseling to support student needs.
Unit Director/Youth Worker (grades K-12)
Boys & Girls Club of Perry/Taylor County
06.1992 - 07.1999
- Oversaw implementation of after school tutoring grant for department of juvenile justice. Directed staff training and recruitment efforts. Managed disciplinary actions for students and staff. Delivered counseling support to students. Administered budget and generated reports for board of directors on a regular basis. Organized schedules and led fundraising initiatives.
Education
Graduate Level Certificate Program - Online Teaching for Adult Educators
Walden University
Minneapolis, Minnesota04-2019
Graduate Level Certificate Program - Adult Education
Walden University
Minneapolis, Minnesota07-2018
Graduate Level Certificate Program - Distance Educator
NOVA Southeastern University
Miami Beach, Florida07-2017
Education Specialist Degree - Curriculum/Instruction Management and Administration
NOVA Southeastern University
Miami Beach, Florida02-2005
Master of Science Degree - Varying Exceptionalities (ESE)
NOVA Southeastern University
Miami Beach, Florida08-2002
BS Degree - Criminology
Florida State University
Tallahassee, Florida08-1998
Skills
- Teaching strategies
- Cultural sensitivity
- Special education support
- Blended learning/Student Support
- Test preparation
- Multimedia integration
- Adult learning theory/principles
- Organizational skills
- Classroom management
- Lesson planning
- Curriculum implementation
- Progress monitoring
- Technology integration/use
- Student records management
- Individualized instruction
Accomplishments
Since becoming the full time adult education teacher in 2022 there has been well over 160 students to have graduated with their high school diplomas. Many of these students have went on to enter college, vocational training programs, and serving in the US Military Branches.
Affiliations
- Member of ACE of Florida and COABE The Voice of Adult Education.
Certification
- State of Florida Teaching Certificate in ESE grades K-12 and Reading Endorsement grades K-12.
- Graduate Certificates in Adult Education, Online Teaching for Adult Educators, and Distance Educator.
Timeline
Adult Education (GED) Teacher
Big Bend Technical College
08.2022 - Current
Night/Summer Adult Education (GED) Teacher
Big Bend Technical College
08.2017 - Current
ESE Specialist (grades 6-12)
Taylor County School District
08.2013 - 07.2022
Middle School Teacher (grades 6-8)
TOVA Department of Juvenile Justice Center
04.2013 - 07.2013
High School Reading Teacher (grades 9-12)
Jefferson County High School
08.2012 - 03.2013
Finance Manager
Foley Contractors, Inc.
11.2007 - 07.2012
ESE Resource Teacher (grades 6-8)
Taylor County Middle School
08.1999 - 10.2007
Unit Director/Youth Worker (grades K-12)
Boys & Girls Club of Perry/Taylor County
06.1992 - 07.1999
Graduate Level Certificate Program - Adult Education
Walden University
Graduate Level Certificate Program - Distance Educator
NOVA Southeastern University
Education Specialist Degree - Curriculum/Instruction Management and Administration
NOVA Southeastern University
Master of Science Degree - Varying Exceptionalities (ESE)
NOVA Southeastern University
BS Degree - Criminology
Florida State University
Graduate Level Certificate Program - Online Teaching for Adult Educators
Walden University