Jennifer Valley
Sun City West,AZ
Summary
Special education teacher with expertise in creating individualized education plans and executing effective classroom management strategies. Demonstrated success in collaborating with parents and staff to address diverse learning needs and improve student engagement. Strong commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments and enhancing educational outcomes for all students.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Washington Elementary School District
Phoenix, AZ
08.2021 - 05.2026
- Created individualized education plans that addressed diverse learning needs, enhancing student outcomes.
- Collaborated with parents and staff to support student progress.
- Implemented behavior management strategies in classroom settings.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate student abilities and challenges.
- Adapted instructional materials to enhance student engagement.
- Provided training and support to paraprofessionals in classrooms.
- Facilitated inclusive education practices for all students.
- Coordinated with specialists to address specific learning disabilities.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Tailored curriculum materials to meet individual learning needs, promoting student participation and understanding.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
- Delivered targeted instruction in academic, communication, and social skills, fostering student development and engagement.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Advocated for the needs of students with disabilities.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to include students in classroom activities.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events.
- Developed interesting and interactive learning methods tailored to help students with individual needs.
- Attended parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Addressed and resolved behavioral issues in line with school policies and guidelines.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs.
Elementary School Teacher - 5th and 6th grades
Peoria Unified School District
Peoria, Arizona
08.2006 - 05.2021
- Developed engaging lesson plans to facilitate student learning and participation.
- Implemented classroom management strategies to promote a positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects and activities.
- Communicated with parents about student behavior and academic performance, fostering strong home-school connections.
- Organized field trips and special events to enhance educational experiences for students.
- Integrated technology into lessons, catering to diverse learning styles and improving student access to resources.
- Mentored new teachers in classroom techniques and curriculum implementation.
- Created classroom environment that was conducive to learning, including establishing rules and procedures.
- Assessed students' progress through formal and informal tests, quizzes, assignments, and observations. Assessed student progress through various formative and summative evaluations.
- Handled challenging classroom behaviors with positive and affirming techniques.
- Participated in professional development activities related to educational trends.
- Promoted an atmosphere of mutual respect between teachers and students.
- Created safe, nurturing a safe, nurturing environment of trust and respect.
- Attended faculty meetings and other school functions.
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance and grades.
- Served as mentor for new teachers in the department.
- Conducted parent-teacher conferences throughout the year.
- Supervised extracurricular activities such as clubs or sports teams - Co-Coach for Girl's Softball for 2 years.
- Co-Advisor for Yearbook and Yearbook club for 4 years.
- Manager of Spelling Bee for 4 years.
- Facilitated after school tutoring groups for reading, math, ELA, and book clubs, enhancing student support and engagement.
- Team lead for 10+ years.
- Taught in different configurations - 1. Taught ELA and Social students while my co-teacher, taught Math and Science, 2. Taught writing to 5th and 6th grades while my co-teachers taught other subjects, 3. Taught Gifted students in grade level for reading, writing and math, 4. Taught all subjects to a homeroom 5. Taught and ELD class of 2 -5th grade students, and 6. assessed and leveled students into small groups for reading and math with entire grade level.
- Instructed students on the proper writing strategies and public speaking techniques for the district Patriotic Speech Contest for over 10 years.
4th and 5th Grade Teacher
Fowler Elementary School District
Phoenix, AZ
01.2003 - 05.2006
- Designed engaging lesson plans aligned with state curriculum standards.
- Implemented classroom management strategies to foster a positive learning environment.
- Utilized educational technology tools to enhance student learning experiences.
- Assessed student progress through various evaluation methods and provided feedback.
- Adapted instructional methods to meet diverse learning needs of students.
- Collaborated with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects and school-wide initiatives.
- Encouraged critical thinking skills through problem-solving activities that addressed real world issues.
Education
Master of Arts - Multicultural Education
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ08-2006
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Arizona State University, West Campus
Phoenix, AZ12-2003
High School Diploma -
General McLane High School
Edinboro, PA06-1990
Skills
- Individual education plans (IEPs)
- IEP implementation
- Behavior modification
- Behavior training development
- Instructional strategies
- Instructional adaptation
- Group and individual instruction
- Student support
- Excellent classroom management
- Parent communications
- Relationship building
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Washington Elementary School District
08.2021 - 05.2026
Elementary School Teacher - 5th and 6th grades
Peoria Unified School District
08.2006 - 05.2021
4th and 5th Grade Teacher
Fowler Elementary School District
01.2003 - 05.2006
Master of Arts - Multicultural Education
Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Arizona State University, West Campus
High School Diploma -
General McLane High School