Cat rescue
ESOL teaching
Jennifer Castro
Lake Wales
Summary
Motivated community relations specialist. My history in education is mirrored in my enthusiasm about working with people of all backgrounds and skill levels. Friendly and collaborative team player. 19 years in the education field.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Reading Interventionist
Polk County Public Schools
08.2024 - Current
- Supported the development of phonemic awareness and decoding skills through targeted activities, promoting fluent reading in struggling learners.
- Interpreted student assessment data to ascertain best intervention methods.
- Conducted one-on-one and small group sessions to provide targeted support, fostering a positive learning environment and boosting confidence in reading abilities.
- Delivered differentiated instruction based on individual learning profiles, addressing diverse needs within the classroom setting effectively.
- Actively participated in professional learning communities focused on literacy instruction, sharing best practices and staying current with evolving educational trends.
- Built strong relationships with parents, establishing open communication lines and sharing resources to reinforce at-home practice of learned skills.
- Enhanced reading comprehension by implementing targeted intervention strategies for struggling students.
- Collaborated with school leadership to develop and implement comprehensive reading intervention programs, continuously refining the curriculum for maximum effectiveness.
- Assessed and documented student progress with established goals.
- Helped students prepare for standardized tests and reviewed results against objectives after completion.
- Increased student literacy rates by utilizing research-based instructional methods and materials.
- Developed interventions for students currently struggling or at risk of falling behind.
- Monitored and assessed student progress through data-driven analysis, adjusting instruction as necessary for optimal results.
- Utilized diverse approaches in teaching, technology, and behavior modification.
- Enhanced knowledge by attending training and adopting new technologies.
Literacy Coach
Polk County School District
08.2022 - 05.2024
- Conducted professional development workshops on effective literacy strategies for colleagues, enhancing overall instructional quality.
- Served as a mentor to new educators, sharing expertise in curriculum planning and classroom management techniques.
- Provided planned objectives and instruction for struggling [School Level] readers.
- Guided teachers to collect and analyze data and developed action plans in response to determined student needs.
- Monitored status of students requiring special attention.
- Conducted ongoing evaluations of literacy improvement action and communicated results to teachers and administrators.
- Trained educators on best practices in literacy instruction, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with literacy research and best practices, ensuring continued growth as an educator.
- Established positive relationships with students, promoting a love for reading and learning.
- Evaluated instructional materials and resources to ensure alignment with district goals and state standards for English Language Arts education.
- Analyzed student assessment data, providing insights for tailored instruction and support.
Special Education Coordinator
Chesterfield County Public Schools
08.2018 - 06.2022
- Managed a caseload of special education students, ensuring timely completion of required documentation and IEP meetings.
- Implemented research-based teaching methods specifically designed for students with disabilities, promoting increased engagement and comprehension across subjects.
- Facilitated IEP meetings by using family-centered, strength-based approach.
- Coordinated with outside state agencies to acquire services for special needs children.
- Led and managed child study teams to develop interventions to support students academically and socially.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings focused on identifying unique strengths and challenges faced by each child while developing effective solutions.
- Coached and observed 16 teachers to improve teaching techniques.
- Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
- Collaborated with teachers to conduct behavioral assessments and intervention plans for students.
Special Education Teacher
Henrico County Public Schools
08.2012 - 06.2018
- Conducted assessments to identify learning challenges and adjust instructional methods.
- Implemented behavior management techniques to create a positive learning environment.
- Enhanced student self-esteem with positive reinforcement and tailored support strategies.
- Advocated for student needs by participating in IEP meetings and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Developed individualized education plans by assessing student needs and collaborating with parents and support staff.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
Education
Master of Science - Reading
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA05-2017
Master of Science - Special Education -Elementary Education
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
Edinboro, PA12-2000
Skills
- Educational background in STEM and math
- Event planning and management
- Experience managing strategic partnerships
- Organized with project management
- Excellent communication and relationship development skills
- Excellent writing and presentation abilities
- Experience in microsoft products such as excel, powerpoint, Sharepoint, Lists and Teams
Interests
Timeline
Reading Interventionist
Polk County Public Schools
08.2024 - Current
Literacy Coach
Polk County School District
08.2022 - 05.2024
Special Education Coordinator
Chesterfield County Public Schools
08.2018 - 06.2022
Special Education Teacher
Henrico County Public Schools
08.2012 - 06.2018
Master of Science - Reading
Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Science - Special Education -Elementary Education
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania