Jamie Lagana
Glenwood,New Jersey
Summary
Dedicated educator with over 19 years of experience fostering dynamic and inclusive classroom environments that promote student success. Expertise in utilizing diverse instructional strategies tailored to meet the unique learning needs of each student, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the material. Recognized for a collaborative approach and adaptability in rapidly changing educational landscapes, with a strong emphasis on enhancing critical thinking and communication skills. Committed to creating engaging learning experiences that empower students to thrive academically and personally.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
ELA and HSS Teacher, grades 6,7,8
LESD Online Academy
01.2022 - 05.2025
- Instructed WIN (What I Need) sessions biweekly. These sessions target specific skills such as citing and explaining text evidence and emphasize state testing preparation, resulting in 57% growth
- Evaluated student performance through standardized tests, assessments, Socratic questioning and essays, providing prompt and constructive feedback. Writing test improvement 23% over last year
- Dreambox Reading Plus, adaptive literacy engagement three times a week raising reading levels to above grade level at 53%
- Fostered a positive classroom environment encouraging student participation and collaboration.
ELA Resource Teacher, grades 7,8
Memorial Middle School
08.2017 - 06.2018
- Taught essential skills in reading comprehension, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and literary analysis, raising students 4 reading levels
- Delivered targeted English Language Arts instruction and interventions to students with a wide range of learning profiles, including those with IEPs and 504 plans.
- Addressed behavioral concerns and supported students' social-emotional development
- Developed individualized education plans to support diverse learning needs.
ELA Teacher, grade 7
Brooklawn Middle School
10.2015 - 06.2017
- Developed and executed engaging lessons that adhered to state and district standards, exceeding expectations by 12%
- Fostered critical thinking and literary analysis through the study of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and informational texts
- Collaborated with grade-level and content-area teams to align instruction, share effective practices, and drive curriculum innovation
- Utilized formative assessments to identify student needs and adjust instructional strategies accordingly.
Reading and Everyday Math Teacher, grade 5
Woodmont Elementary School
09.2014 - 06.2015
- Cultivated positive, collaborative relationships with students and families to support academic and social-emotional growth
- Monitored and interpreted student progress with frequent formative and summative assessments in multiple modalities, raising student scores 15% from the year before
- Engaged with stakeholders—including parents, specialists, and administrators—through regular meetings and communication to align educational efforts
- Achievements/Tasks
2nd Grade Leave Replacement Teacher
Ellen T. Briggs Elementary School
01.2014 - 06.2014
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Implemented classroom management strategies fostering a positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with colleagues to enhance instructional practices and student outcomes.
- Assessed student progress through various evaluation methods, providing targeted feedback.
Education
Pursued Certificate - Special Education
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Graduate School
RemoteBachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies
Thomas Edison University
Trenton, NJ09.2010
Associate of Arts - Human Services - Liberal Arts And Sciences
County College of Morris
Randolph, NJ01.2006
Associate Applied Science - Medical Laboratory Technology
Felician University
Lodi, NJ05.1986
Skills
- Grammar & Vocabulary Instruction
- Curriculum integration strategies
- Constructive family dialogue
- Student assessment
- Differentiated instruction
- Literacy intervention
- Student engagement strategies
- Instructional design
- Instructional technology
- Individualized education plan execution
- Critical evaluation through guided questioning
- Critical thinking strategies
- Standardized test preparation
- Effective parent communication
- Curriculum development
Certification
State of New Jersey Elementary School with Subject Matter Specialization: Language Arts/ Literacy Specialization in Grades 5-8
State of New Jersey Elementary School Teacher in Grades K-6
State of New Jersey Teacher of Supplemental Instruction: Reading and Mathematics, Grades K-8
Timeline
ELA and HSS Teacher, grades 6,7,8
LESD Online Academy
01.2022 - 05.2025
ELA Resource Teacher, grades 7,8
Memorial Middle School
08.2017 - 06.2018
ELA Teacher, grade 7
Brooklawn Middle School
10.2015 - 06.2017
Reading and Everyday Math Teacher, grade 5
Woodmont Elementary School
09.2014 - 06.2015
2nd Grade Leave Replacement Teacher
Ellen T. Briggs Elementary School
01.2014 - 06.2014
Pursued Certificate - Special Education
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Graduate School
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies
Thomas Edison University
Associate of Arts - Human Services - Liberal Arts And Sciences
County College of Morris
Associate Applied Science - Medical Laboratory Technology
Felician University