Erika Garcia
Ridgefield Park
Summary
Early Childhood and Special Education Teacher with 10+ years of experience delivering inclusive, student-centered instruction. Nurturing and approachable, with strong relationship-building skills. Skilled in IEP implementation, differentiated instruction, and supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. Proven collaborator who works effectively with multidisciplinary teams to improve student outcomes.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Kindergarten Inclusion Teacher
Fort Lee School District
Fort Lee
09.2025 - Current
- Deliver inclusive, differentiated instruction integrating general and special education strategies
- Collaborated with therapists, ESL teachers, and case managers to effectively implement IEP goals, enhancing student learning experiences
- Adapt lessons and materials to meet diverse academic, social, and emotional needs
- Used assessment data to tailor instruction and track student progress, ensuring individualized support
- Fostered safe, supportive, and engaging classroom environment, promoting positive social interactions and emotional well-being
Preschool PSD Teacher
Fort Lee School District
Fort Lee
09.2022 - 06.2025
- Designed and implemented developmentally appropriate lessons for preschool students with special needs
- Utilized Creative Curriculum to individualize instruction and support diverse learners
- Developed individualized learning plans to enhance academic, social, and emotional growth
- Collaborated with therapists, case managers, and families to support integrated care for students
- Facilitated language, motor, cognitive, and social development through engaging play-based activities
- Maintained accurate progress and behavior records
Special Education Resource Teacher
Hoboken School District
Hoboken
09.2021 - 06.2022
- Managed IEPs and assessed student performance to create tailored learning objectives
- Adapted instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles, collaborating with general education teachers to enhance student engagement
- Administered and analyzed NJSLA, DRA, and Linkit assessments to inform instruction
- Provided academic and emotional support, ensuring confidentiality while fostering a safe learning environment
Kindergarten Teacher
Hoboken School District
Hoboken
09.2016 - 06.2021
- Differentiated instruction to enhance individual student growth and learning outcomes
- Supported students’ academic, social, and emotional development through tailored interventions and activities
- Implemented positive behavior management strategies to foster a supportive classroom environment
- Integrated stories, songs, games, and technology to enhance engagement
- Participated in intervention planning and parent-teacher conferences
Instructional Aide
Rutherford School District
Rutherford
09.2014 - 06.2016
- Delivered targeted small-group instruction in sixth-grade LLD self-contained classroom to enhance student engagement
- Developed and implemented behavior management systems to foster a supportive learning environment
- Supported lesson preparation and conducted assessments to evaluate student progress and inform instruction
1:1 Paraprofessional
Ridgefield School District
Ridgefield
09.2013 - 06.2014
- Guided targeted instruction to help achieve IEP goals, promoting student progress
- Provided tailored academic and behavioral support for student with special needs, fostering engagement and learning
- Facilitated classroom routines and supported assignment completion to enhance student participation
Head Teacher – Toddlers
East Rutherford School District
East Rutherford
01.2012 - 12.2012
- Managed toddler classroom, implementing age-appropriate learning activities to enhance cognitive and social skills
- Maintained safe, nurturing environment that fostered early development and encouraged independence
- Established structured routines, supporting effective learning and optimizing classroom organization
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
New Jersey City University
Jersey City, NJSkills
- Instructional strategies
- Classroom management
- Collaborative teaching
- Progress monitoring
- Parent-teacher communication
- Family engagement
- Team collaboration
Certification
- New Jersey Standard P-3
- New Jersey CEAS Teacher of Students with Disabilities
Languages
Bilingual: English and Spanish
Timeline
Kindergarten Inclusion Teacher
Fort Lee School District
09.2025 - Current
Preschool PSD Teacher
Fort Lee School District
09.2022 - 06.2025
Special Education Resource Teacher
Hoboken School District
09.2021 - 06.2022
Kindergarten Teacher
Hoboken School District
09.2016 - 06.2021
Instructional Aide
Rutherford School District
09.2014 - 06.2016
1:1 Paraprofessional
Ridgefield School District
09.2013 - 06.2014
Head Teacher – Toddlers
East Rutherford School District
01.2012 - 12.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
New Jersey City University