Grace Spakes
Rison,AR
Summary
Dynamic educator with a proven track record at Cleveland County Headstart, excelling in differentiated instruction and relationship building. Successfully enhanced student engagement through innovative lesson planning and technology integration, leading to improved academic outcomes. Committed to fostering collaborative learning environments and promoting positive communication among students, parents, and staff.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Elementary Teacher
Woodlawn School District
Rison, AR
08.2023 - Current
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with state curriculum standards.
- Fostered a positive learning environment through effective classroom management strategies.
- Utilized technology tools to enhance student learning experiences and educational outcomes.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that promote critical thinking skills.
- Assessed student progress regularly, adapting instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
- Organized and led extracurricular activities to promote student engagement and community involvement.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to improve student performance and achievement levels.
- Promoted a positive classroom environment by establishing clear expectations and fostering strong communication between students, parents, and staff members.
- Increased overall student achievement by utilizing differentiated instructional methods tailored to individual learning styles.
Center Director
Clevland County Headstart
Rison, AR
08.2020 - 07.2023
- Developed and implemented educational programs to enhance child development and learning outcomes.
- Managed daily operations, ensuring compliance with state regulations and organizational policies.
- Collaborated with families and community partners to support children's needs and resources.
- Led staff training sessions to improve teaching strategies and foster professional growth.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through continuous assessment and feedback mechanisms.
- Directed recruitment efforts, enhancing team diversity and strengthening organizational culture.
- Advocated for children's rights and access to quality education within the community framework.
- Promoted positive company image and established reputation as provider of choice for educational programs in greater community.
- Developed strong community relationships to support center programs and initiatives.
- Led team of educators in creating innovative curriculum that aligned with state standards and promoted student success.
Classroom Teacher
Cleveland County Headstart
Rison, AR
01.2017 - 07.2023
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Fostered positive relationships with students, families, and staff to enhance classroom environment.
- Assessed student progress through regular evaluations and tailored instructional strategies accordingly.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that promote critical thinking skills.
- Utilized educational technology tools to support interactive learning experiences in the classroom.
- Organized and led extracurricular activities that encourage student participation and development.
- Monitored classroom behavior and implemented proactive strategies to maintain a conducive learning atmosphere.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and refining instructional techniques accordingly.
Education
Master of Arts - Special Education
University of Arkansas At Monticello
Monticello, ARMaster of Science - Elementary Education
University of Arkansas At Monticello
Monticello, AR12.2025
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
University of Arkansas At Monticello
Monticello, AR05.2023
High School Diploma -
Woodlawn School District
Rison, AR05.2013
Skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Relationship building
- Lesson planning
- Team collaboration
- Classroom management
- Parent-teacher communication
- Positive reinforcement
- Technology integration
- Classroom organization
- Growth mindset
- Collaborative learning
- Problem-solving skills
- Oral communication
- Student motivation
- Activity planning
- Student records management
- Standardized tests
- Student needs assessment
- Student monitoring
- Special education
- Compliance standards
- Assigning and grading work
- Curriculum management
- Collaborative teamwork
Timeline
Elementary Teacher
Woodlawn School District
08.2023 - Current
Center Director
Clevland County Headstart
08.2020 - 07.2023
Classroom Teacher
Cleveland County Headstart
01.2017 - 07.2023
Master of Arts - Special Education
University of Arkansas At Monticello
Master of Science - Elementary Education
University of Arkansas At Monticello
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
University of Arkansas At Monticello
High School Diploma -
Woodlawn School District