Erin Taylor
Indianapolis,USA
Summary
Professional educator with strong background in teaching life skills. Demonstrates ability to develop and implement effective lesson plans that foster student growth and independence. Skilled in team collaboration and adapting to evolving classroom needs. Known for reliability, clear communication, and results-driven approach.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Life Skills Teacher
Charity Dye Center For Inquiry, Indianapolis Public Schools #27
08.2023 - Current
- Managed a caseload of seven students with diverse learning needs, overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of their IEPs in compliance with state and federal regulations (IDEA, Section 504).
- Collaborated with an interdisciplinary team, including parents, general education teachers, and administrators, to ensure comprehensive student support and align goals with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Demonstrated strong leadership qualities by motivating individuals, cultivating a positive team culture, and encouraging goal attainment in a fast-paced, unpredictable environment.
- Incorporated principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and other behavior management strategies to support students' emotional and social development, and proactively address behavioral challenges.
- Developed individualized lesson plans to enhance students' life skills and promote independence.
- Facilitated classroom discussions that encouraged critical thinking and problem-solving among students.
- Collaborated with special education staff to ensure tailored support for diverse learning needs.
- Trained and mentored new teachers on effective life skills instructional techniques and classroom management practices.
- Evaluated student progress through assessments, adjusting teaching methods as needed for optimal outcomes.
- Customized strategies based on individuals' goals and strengths and offered each positive reinforcement to continue progress against goals.
- Modeled positive behavior skills as well as good problem-solving and relationship-building abilities to improve clients' social integration.
- Maintained impeccable records for each client and daily instructional activities.
- Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas of improvement and adjust lessons accordingly for optimal student outcomes.
Middle School Inclusion Teacher
George Washington Carver Montessori, Indianapolis Public Schools #87
08.2022 - 08.2023
- Managed the implementation of a comprehensive, year-long curriculum for a caseload of 17 diverse learners, ensuring alignment with academic standards, and successful completion of all learning objectives within established timelines.
- Communicated complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, adapting the message and delivery to meet individual comprehension needs.
- Navigated complex and unpredictable daily situations with composure and a solutions-oriented mindset, maintaining a positive, and productive environment.
- Applied a high level of emotional intelligence and empathy to understand and address the unique challenges of students and colleagues, fostering a supportive atmosphere.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create inclusive classroom environments.
- Strengthened relationships with parents, students, and colleagues by maintaining open communication channels and participating in school events.
- Maintained accurate records of student performance data, informing instructional decisions based on measurable evidence of progress toward goals.
Life Skills Teacher
Crooked Creek Elementary School, MSD Washington Township
08.2016 - 08.2022
- Developed individualized education plans for 11 students with special needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Utilized effective negotiation and conflict resolution skills to mediate disputes and navigate complex personality dynamics among students and team members, fostering a positive environment.
- Provided training and guidance to new staff and paraprofessionals on effective strategies for student engagement and support.
- Applied critical thinking to troubleshoot and resolve issues in real time, such as unexpected interruptions or changes in daily schedules, maintaining focus on core objectives.
- Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and fostering respectful communication among students.
Primary Autism Teacher
Rousseau McClellan Montessori, Indianapolis Public Schools #91
09.2007 - 08.2016
- Developed and implemented effective communication systems, including the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), for seven non-verbal individuals, enhancing overall engagement and interaction.
- Designed and managed systems for systematic data collection (e.g., trial-by-trial data, task analysis) to monitor progress, evaluate effectiveness, and inform data-driven decision-making for a caseload of 13 students with diverse needs.
- Led interdisciplinary teams in the development, implementation, and monitoring of comprehensive plans (Individualized Education Programs - IEPs, Behavior Intervention Plans - BIPs) to achieve specific, measurable outcomes.
- Proficient in data collection and analysis platforms, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and various educational and augmentative communication technologies (e.g., PECS, specific AAC software).
Education
Certification - Applied Behavior Analysis
Ball State University
Muncie, IN08-2020
Master of Arts (M.A.) - Special Education
Marian University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN05.2010
Master of Education (M. Ed.) - Human Services and Counseling
DePaul University
Chicago, IL05.2005
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Theater/Telecommunications
Indiana University
Bloomington, IN05.1996
Skills
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Collaborative Teamwork
- Written Communication
- Time Management and Organization
- Leadership and Mentoring
- Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
- Conflict Resolution
- Creativity
- Data Analysis
- Technological Proficiency
Certification
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Crisis Prevention Intervention
- Adult/Child CPR/AED
LANGUAGES
English
Spanish
Accomplishments
- Successfully adapted lessons and curriculum to meet the needs of students with autism and ADHD.
- Completed certification in Applied Behavior Analysis.
- Organized Hispanic Heritage and Black History events attended by 200 parents and students.
- Supervised team of three staff members.
- Mentored four new teachers.
- Participated and complete countless professional development opportunities including racial equity, behavior management strategies, developing Individual Education Plans (IEPs), etc.
FIND ME ONLINE
- www.linkedin.com/in/erin-taylor-219b5612
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
Life Skills Teacher
Charity Dye Center For Inquiry, Indianapolis Public Schools #27
08.2023 - Current
Middle School Inclusion Teacher
George Washington Carver Montessori, Indianapolis Public Schools #87
08.2022 - 08.2023
Life Skills Teacher
Crooked Creek Elementary School, MSD Washington Township
08.2016 - 08.2022
Primary Autism Teacher
Rousseau McClellan Montessori, Indianapolis Public Schools #91
09.2007 - 08.2016
Master of Education (M. Ed.) - Human Services and Counseling
DePaul University
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Theater/Telecommunications
Indiana University
Certification - Applied Behavior Analysis
Ball State University
Master of Arts (M.A.) - Special Education
Marian University Indianapolis