Erica Koehler
Battle Creek,MI
Summary
Dependable retail sales professional with experience in dynamic, high-performance environments. Skilled in processing transactions, handling cash, using registers and arranging merchandise. Maintains high-level customer satisfaction by smoothly resolving customer requests, needs, and problems.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Paraprofessional
Harper Creek Community Schools
Battle Creek, MI
08.2025 - Current
- Supported individualized education plans by assisting students with disabilities in daily academic tasks.
- Collaborated with teachers to implement instructional strategies tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Monitored student progress, providing feedback and adjustments to support personal growth and development.
- Assisted in behavioral management strategies, fostering positive classroom environments for all learners.
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
- Interacted physically and verbally with students throughout each day.
Lead Teacher
The Wentworth House
Battle Creek, MI
09.2018 - 08.2025
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Mentored junior teachers, fostering professional growth and enhancing classroom management skills.
- Assessed student progress using data-driven methods to inform instructional strategies.
- Cultivated a positive learning environment that promoted inclusivity and student participation.
- Collaborated with parents and guardians to support student development and address concerns.
- Worked one-on-one with students and student teachers to increase overall classroom success.
- Led classroom activities that promoted creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.
- Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
- Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
- Increased educational expertise and knowledge by participating in instructor-oriented workshops.
- Implemented individualized learning strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles.
- Developed engaging lesson plans to foster children's cognitive and social development.
Sales Associate
JCPenney
Michigan City, IN
05.2010 - 02.2012
- Assisted customers with product selection to enhance shopping experience.
- Maintained merchandise displays to ensure visual appeal and organization.
- Processed sales transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve daily sales targets.
- Trained new associates on company policies and customer service standards.
- Analyzed inventory levels to minimize stock discrepancies and optimize replenishment.
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
Assistant Manager/Salesperson
Zeman Homes
Michigan City, IN
02.2001 - 04.2010
- Analyzed lease agreements for compliance and identified opportunities for improvement.
- Coordinated tenant communications to enhance resident satisfaction and retention.
- Implemented property maintenance schedules to ensure timely repairs and upkeep.
- Coordinated move-ins and move-outs, ensuring smooth transitions for both tenants and property management team.
- Handled tenant complaints promptly and appropriately, calling in repairmen, and other support services.
- Resolved conflicts between tenants regarding noise, encroachments, and parking.
- Negotiated sales agreements and facilitated closing processes for residential properties.
- Conducted property showings, highlighting key features to potential buyers.
- Wrote listings detailing and professionally highlighting property features to increase sales chances.
- Coordinated appointments to show marketed properties.
- Generated leads for sales and rental properties through cold calls and referrals.
- Worked closely with clients to facilitate appropriate loans, inspections, and credit reports.
Education
CDA Certificate - Early Childhood Care And Education
Kellogg Community College
Battle Creek, MISkills
- Customer service
- Relationship building
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving skills
- Multi-tasking strength
- Excellent people skills
- Reliable and punctual
- Exceptional customer service
- Money handling
- Team leadership
- Quick learner
- Patience and empathy
Timeline
Special Education Paraprofessional
Harper Creek Community Schools
08.2025 - Current
Lead Teacher
The Wentworth House
09.2018 - 08.2025
Sales Associate
JCPenney
05.2010 - 02.2012
Assistant Manager/Salesperson
Zeman Homes
02.2001 - 04.2010
CDA Certificate - Early Childhood Care And Education
Kellogg Community College