ESTRELLA WATKINS
Wichita,KS
Summary
Special education teacher experienced in supporting students with diverse needs, including those with behavioral challenges. Maintains a positive and solution-focused approach during times of stress or conflict. Works collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders to develop differentiated instruction, ensuring every student receives the support they need. Committed to fostering a supportive learning environment, including the use of restorative practices to address behavior challenges effectively.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Interrelated Special Education Teacher
Wichita Public Schools USD 259
08.2020 - Current
- Create and manage IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals
- Cultivate connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration
- Teach students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies
Fifth Grade Classroom Teacher
Wichita Public Schools USD 259
08.2019 - 05.2020
- Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process
- Planned lessons according to district standards to cover requirements and prepare for standardized tests
- Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking and communication
- Implemented classroom management improvements to enhance class morale and engagement
Gifted and Talented Teacher
Goddard Public Schools USD 265
08.2018 - 05.2019
- Identified children's collective and individual learning needs to plan, prepare and deliver instruction designed to maximize individual learning and capture interest
- Prepared lesson plans and executed different modalities to accelerate individual success
- Maintained and repaired classroom computers by installing and uninstalling educational software, keeping computers virus-free and upgrading systems
- Balanced individual and group instruction to accommodate different academic levels and learning styles
Education
Master of Science - Building Leadership
Baker University
05.2025
Master of Science - High Incidence Special Education
Baker University
Baldwin City, KS12.2022
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Friends University
Wichita, KS05.2018
Skills
- Student-Centered Instructional Strategies
- Student Performance Evaluation
- Language Proficiency
- Customized Educational Approaches
- Individualized Lesson Plans
- Parent Communication
- Individualized Education Programs (IEP)
- Data Logging
- Team Collaboration
- Behavior Management
Accomplishments
- Distinguished Classroom Teacher Nominee 2023
- Aspiring Building Leader Cohort 4 2024
Timeline
Interrelated Special Education Teacher
Wichita Public Schools USD 259
08.2020 - Current
Fifth Grade Classroom Teacher
Wichita Public Schools USD 259
08.2019 - 05.2020
Gifted and Talented Teacher
Goddard Public Schools USD 265
08.2018 - 05.2019
Master of Science - High Incidence Special Education
Baker University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Friends University
Master of Science - Building Leadership
Baker University
Similar Profiles
Abigail SanderAbigail Sander
Science Teacher at Truesdell Middle School for Wichita Public Schools USD 259 and Valley Center Middle School USD 262Science Teacher at Truesdell Middle School for Wichita Public Schools USD 259 and Valley Center Middle School USD 262
Sandra LemusSandra Lemus
Paraprofessional at Wichita Public Schools USD 259Paraprofessional at Wichita Public Schools USD 259
Camille TerryCamille Terry
Guest Para at Wichita Public Schools USD 259Guest Para at Wichita Public Schools USD 259