Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Drew Garcia

Tustin,CA

Summary

Dynamic Special Education Instructional Assistant with proven expertise in emotional regulation and assistive technology. Excelled in enhancing student engagement and progress through innovative instructional strategies, achieving significant improvements in IEP compliance and life skills development. Skilled in both group and individual instruction, fostering a positive learning environment.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Instructional Assistant

Saddleback Unified School District
01.2023 - Current
  • Provided one-on-one and small group assistance in academic subjects such as reading, writing, math, and social studies to help students achieve their full potential.
  • Participated actively in professional development opportunities focused on best practices in special education instruction and support services.
  • Improved student engagement by incorporating interactive activities and multimedia resources in lessons.
  • Enhanced student progress by implementing individualized education plans and adapting instructional strategies to meet diverse needs.

Associate Teacher

Catalyst Kids
09.2022 - 01.2023
  • Promoted a positive classroom environment by fostering respectful, open communication between students and staff.
  • Encouraged creativity and self-expression among students through various art projects and writing assignments, inspiring confidence in their abilities.
  • Helped lead teacher set up and manage classroom and outdoor activities.
  • Watched and documented behaviors for use in identifying areas in need of support.

Paraeducator, Special Education

Strategic Kids
04.2022 - 08.2022
  • Assisted teachers in adapting lesson plans and materials, ensuring accessibility for all students.
  • Promoted self-advocacy skills by teaching students how to express their needs effectively within the classroom setting.
  • Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
  • Maintained accurate records of student performance, attendance, and progress towards IEP goals.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
06.2025

Skills

    Emotional Regulation

    Assistive Technology

    IEP compliance

    Life Skills Development

    Data Collection

    Group and individual instruction

Timeline

Special Education Instructional Assistant

Saddleback Unified School District
01.2023 - Current

Associate Teacher

Catalyst Kids
09.2022 - 01.2023

Paraeducator, Special Education

Strategic Kids
04.2022 - 08.2022

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Capella University
Drew Garcia