Special education professional with proven track record of fostering inclusive learning environments and implementing effective instructional strategies. Strong emphasis on team collaboration and achieving positive educational outcomes, adaptable to changing classroom dynamics. Skilled in behavior management, curriculum development, and student advocacy, bringing reliability and flexibility to role.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Walsh Elementary
08.2008 - 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.
Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
5th Grade General Education Teacher
CICS Washington Park Elementary School
08.2007 - 06.2008
Communicated effectively with parents regarding student progress, addressing concerns and offering strategies for improvement when necessary.
Increased student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and collaborative projects.
Utilized assessment tools to monitor student progress, adjusting instructional strategies accordingly for optimal results.
Contributed to school-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall student achievement by participating in curriculum development committees and attending regular staff meetings.
Served as a mentor for new teachers, providing guidance and support throughout their first year in the profession.
Developed comprehensive lesson plans that catered to diverse learning styles, enhancing comprehension of subject material.
Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary units, enriching students'' understanding of broader themes and connections between subjects.
Education
Master of Science - Teaching English As A Second Language
University of Illinois At Chicago
Chicago, IL
05-2017
Master of Science - Reading Instruction
Concordia University
River Forest, IL
06-2012
Certification Program - LBS1 Endorsement
Roosevelt University
Chicago, IL
05-2009
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
05-2007
Skills
Differentiated instruction
Classroom management
Individual education plans IEPs
Small group instruction
Co-teaching experience
Lesson planning
Collaborative teamwork
Data management
Social skills development
Behavior intervention plans
Verbal and nonverbal communication
Certification
Illinois Professional Educator License (K-9)
LBS1 (K-9)
Social Science Endorsement (5-8)
ESL Endorsement (K-9)
Affiliations
The Autism Helper
After School Programs
Soccer coach for Urban Initiatives
Facilitated Garden Club activities
Interests
Practicing yoga
I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
Playing Tennis
Regularly practice mindfulness and meditation for overall wellness
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Walsh Elementary
08.2008 - Current
5th Grade General Education Teacher
CICS Washington Park Elementary School
08.2007 - 06.2008
Master of Science - Teaching English As A Second Language