Erica Craft
Pharr,TX
Summary
Proven Special Education professional with a successful track record at Mercedes ISD in designing inclusive educational plans that promote student success. Expertise in IEP implementation and exceptional classroom management has led to notable improvements in cognitive and behavioral development. Adept at motivating diverse student populations and resolving conflicts, ensuring equitable learning experiences for all.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Mercedes ISD
Mercedes, TX
10.2021 - Current
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Designed and delivered personalized learning for each student and advocated for student inclusion and success in general education environments.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
- Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
- Offered hands-on learning opportunities to develop student self-esteem and life skills.
- Supported diverse student populations through equitable instructional design and programming.
- Enhanced students' physical, behavioral and social skills through class activities.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Mercedes ISD
Mercedes, TX
12.2014 - 10.2021
- Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
- Administered assessments as directed by teachers or other school personnel.
- Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Reviewed and reported on IEP progress.
- Maintained attendance records and documented class activity.
- Motivated students using feedback and encouragement.
- Improved behavior with modification and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Provided one-on-one instruction to students who needed extra help with learning tasks.
- Assisted with transitioning from one activity to another throughout the day as needed by the student.
Education
Master of Arts - Mathematics Education (Middle Grades)
Western Governor's University
Salt Lake, UT02.2025
Bachelor of Arts Degree - Educational Studies
Western Governor's University
Salt Lake, UT01.2021
Associate of Arts Degree - Social Science
Barstow Community College
Barstow, CA05.2013
Skills
- Motivating students
- Conflict resolution techniques
- IEP and BIP implementation
- Cognitive and behavioral development
- Job readiness training
- Excellent classroom management
Certification
- Special Education EC-12, 05/01/22
- Mathematics 4-8, 05/01/22
Accomplishments
Teacher of the Month, 02/01/22
Roles And Responsibilities
- Provide accommodations and modifications to students and collaborate with teachers to ensure students with disabilities are provided modifications and accommodations.
- Support students by using behavioral strategies and positive reinforcements for the purpose of teaching appropriate social behaviors in accordance with students' social and behavioral learning objectives.
- Teach students in a group and individual basis, with specific instructional tasks accommodating their development and growth using their Individual Educational Plan (IEP).
- Developed and implemented IEPs and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) for students with disabilities.
- Administered and monitored STAAR state assessments for special education students with accommodations.
- Communicate with students, parents, and collaborate with school staff, teachers, and other members of the instructional team regarding students with disabilities' daily progress for the purpose of assessing students' continued growth.
- Attended Closing the Gap trainings to better serve our students.
- Assisted with the implementation of IEP goals and objectives, including assisting students in transitioning between classes as needed.
- Provided academic support to special education students during classroom instruction and small group work.
- Maintained a safe environment for all students by following district safety procedures and guidelines.
- Communicated regularly with teachers regarding student progress towards IEP goals and objectives.
- Participated in professional development opportunities related to special education services provided at school sites.
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Mercedes ISD
10.2021 - Current
Special Education Paraprofessional
Mercedes ISD
12.2014 - 10.2021
Master of Arts - Mathematics Education (Middle Grades)
Western Governor's University
Bachelor of Arts Degree - Educational Studies
Western Governor's University
Associate of Arts Degree - Social Science
Barstow Community College
Similar Profiles
Erica FloresErica Flores
Human Resources Director at Mercedes ISDHuman Resources Director at Mercedes ISD
Anna TaylorAnna Taylor
Accounts Payable Clerk at Mercedes ISDAccounts Payable Clerk at Mercedes ISD
Deborah CanoDeborah Cano
2nd Grade Teacher at Mercedes ISD2nd Grade Teacher at Mercedes ISD