ERICKA TORRES
Chicago,USA
Summary
Experienced educator with 9+ years supporting diverse learners from early childhood through K-12. Proficient in classroom management, curriculum design, differentiated instruction, and special education. Builds strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues to foster inclusive, trauma-informed learning environments. Utilizes data-driven instruction, student progress monitoring tools like FastBridge, and educational technology to ensure student success. Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Demonstrates reliability, adaptability, and a quick capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to driving team success, contributing to organizational growth, and upholding principles of equity and lifelong learning.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Substitute Teacher / Interventionist
The Catalyst Schools
02.2021 - Current
- Delivered tiered instruction and academic interventions across Pre-K–8 classrooms, including general and special education settings.
- Supported students through small-group and one-on-one interventions in reading, math, and behavior, aligned to RTI/MTSS frameworks.
- Utilized student data platforms such as FastBridge, IXL, and STAR to monitor academic progress and inform instructional decisions.
- Collected and analyzed assessment data to track student growth, guide instruction, and communicate outcomes with the intervention team.
- Adapted lessons to accommodate IEPs, 504 Plans, and diverse learner needs, including ELL and students with disabilities.
- Proctored standardized assessments and supported data-driven instructional planning, including IAR testing.
- Collaborated with teachers, administrators, and support staff to implement targeted supports based on academic and behavioral data.
- Maintained student engagement and classroom management in both short-term and long-term teacher absences.
ABA Therapist
ABC Therapy Services
02.2019 - 01.2020
- Provided in-home and clinic-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), supporting social, communication, and behavioral development.
- Developed and implemented individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) tailored to each child's specific needs, goals, and learning profile.
- Collected, tracked, and analyzed behavioral data daily to measure progress, identify trends, and inform continuous treatment plan adjustments.
- Utilized evidence-based ABA strategies including discrete trial training (DTT), natural environment teaching (NET), and positive reinforcement.
- Collaborated closely with families and clinical supervisors to maintain consistency of strategies and generalization of skills across settings.
- Supported clients in achieving developmental milestones related to communication, self-regulation, play skills, and daily living activities.
- Maintained detailed session notes and treatment documentation in compliance with HIPAA and clinic guidelines.
- Delivered therapy with compassion and professionalism while remaining neutral, consistent, and patient during behavior escalation or challenging moments.
Lead Teacher/Assistant Director
Ladybug And Friends Daycare and Preschool
10.2017 - 01.2021
- Progressed from classroom teacher to Assistant Director after demonstrating leadership, strong instructional skills, and reliability in every classroom setting.
- Worked extensively with infants, toddlers, twos, and preschool-aged children, supporting all developmental stages and adapting to various teaching environments.
- Provided care, instruction, and enrichment in every age-level classroom, building deep understanding of early childhood education and NAEYC standards.
- Developed and implemented daily lesson plans using play-based, hands-on learning approaches aligned with Illinois Early Learning Guidelines.
- Supported cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development through age-appropriate activities and individualized supports.
- Led parent-teacher conferences, daily reports, and progress updates using student portfolios and observational data.
- Collaborated with teaching teams to establish positive classroom culture, manage transitions, and implement consistent routines.
- Supervised staff, mentored new hires, and contributed to training and classroom observations in the Assistant Director role.
- Ensured licensing compliance and safety protocols across classrooms; contributed to health audits, state visits, and policy reviews.
- Communicated regularly with families to promote strong school-home partnerships, including behavioral support and early intervention referrals.
Preschool Teacher/Twos Teacher
Kensington School
05.2016 - 09.2017
- Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
- Maintained well-controlled classrooms by clearly outlining standards and reinforcing positive behaviors.
- Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
- Supervised students and enforced discipline during all Head Start activities.
- Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
- Monitored students' academic, social and emotional progress and recorded in individual files.
- Educated students in foundational concepts such as shapes, numbers, and letters.
- Organized and facilitated monthly parent support group meetings.
- Addressed behavioral and learning issues with parents and daycare management.
- Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
- Organized activities to teach preschool children foundational learning skills such as letters and numbers.
- Helped new preschool children get used to classes by giving one-on-one support.
Manager
Dunkin' Donuts
08.2014 - 03.2016
- Began as barista, handling customer orders, operating registers, preparing drinks, and maintaining the bakery display and food service area.
- Delivered fast, friendly, and accurate service in a high-volume environment, ensuring a positive experience for every guest.
- Promoted to Manager based on leadership potential and outstanding customer service performance.
- Managed daily store operations, including staff scheduling, shift coverage, and opening/closing procedures.
- Led hiring, onboarding, and staff training, establishing clear expectations for performance and customer engagement.
- Conducted regular team evaluations, promoted internal growth, and maintained a high employee retention rate.
- Streamlined cost control strategies related to labor, inventory, and waste reduction, optimizing profitability.
- Monitored compliance with health, safety, and quality standards, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment for both staff and customers.
- Collaborated with upper management on promotions, sales goals, and store performance metrics.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN08.2019
M.Ed. (Master of Education) - Curriculum And Instruction
Western Governors University
Western Governors University – Salt Lake City, UT12-2023
M.Ed. (Master of Education) - Educational Technology And Instructional Design
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT12-2024
Skills
- Curriculum & Instruction (K–12, Special Education)
- Classroom & Behavior Management
- Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- Data-Driven Instruction & Assessment
- Early Childhood Education (NAEYC-Accredited)
- Instructional Technology Integration
- Staff Mentorship & Team Leadership
- Program Oversight & Compliance
- Lesson Planning & Differentiation
- Student Progress Monitoring
- Parent Communication & Engagement
- Trauma-Informed & Play-Based Instruction
Certification
- Paraprofessional Educator License (through ISBE)
- Illinois Substitute License (through ISBE)
- Chicago Public Charter Schools Training up to date
- CPR certified
- Illinois Manager Food Handlers Certificate
- Gateways Registry Updated
- SIDS/Mandated Reporter Certificate
- VIRTUS completion
- Autism Awareness Course
Accomplishments
- Student Mentor - Volunteered as temporary student guidance counselor to help resolve student personal issues.
- Interactive Learning - Introduced and encouraged debate-style classroom setting to increase student active participation and critical thinking.
- Targeted Development - Met with parents and guardians to discuss children's progress and to determine priorities and resource needs.
- Additional opportunities- Chosen to work after-care, before-care, and summer school. Extended stipends offered from challenging work and dedication.
Lasallian Staff Member Award – Recognized for embodying Lasallian values through service, leadership
Catalyst Schools – Recognized for embodying Lasallian values through exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to student growth.
Selected for outstanding contribution to school culture and academic success. Took initiative in leading MTSS interventions for 6th grade, implementing research-based strategies with fidelity. Within just three months, student data showed measurable growth in targeted areas. Supported ELL scholars in 4th grade by modifying ESL content and delivering differentiated instruction to non-English-speaking students. While not fluent, leveraged Spanish language skills and translation tools to build trust, ensure access, and support language development. Maintained high expectations and consistency, resulting in notable progress in both academic and social-emotional growth.
Timeline
Substitute Teacher / Interventionist
The Catalyst Schools
02.2021 - Current
ABA Therapist
ABC Therapy Services
02.2019 - 01.2020
Lead Teacher/Assistant Director
Ladybug And Friends Daycare and Preschool
10.2017 - 01.2021
Preschool Teacher/Twos Teacher
Kensington School
05.2016 - 09.2017
Manager
Dunkin' Donuts
08.2014 - 03.2016
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Capella University
M.Ed. (Master of Education) - Curriculum And Instruction
Western Governors University
M.Ed. (Master of Education) - Educational Technology And Instructional Design
Western Governors University
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