Dedicated elementary teacher with 17 years experience developing and growing young minds. Adept at using positive reinforcement to encourage student learning and growth. Accomplished and proficient at engaging at-risk students.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Kindergarten Teacher
Kalamazoo Public Schools
08.2018 - Current
Deliver engaging lessons to classes with 20+ Kindergarten students using a variety of teaching methodologies including trauma-informed practices, project-based learning, hands-on learning, holistic learning, and cooperative learning techniques
Simultaneously execute the demands of lesson planning, grading, managing communication with parents and colleagues, keep track of deadlines, maintain accurate records of students' progress, accurately take attendance, track behavior goals and management, identify areas of concern for specific students, provide additional support when needed, and create a positive learning environment that minimizes distractions
Serve as Foundations Committee co-chair for three consecutive years, mentor and coach teachers in the Urban Teacher Residency Program for two years, participate in district curriculum development and carry out professional development on the curriculum changes
Establish a positive and inclusive classroom environment that fostered curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning
Collaborate with parents and colleagues to support student success and create a strong school community
Utilize technology and interactive resources to enhance learning experiences and facilitate student engagement
Conduct regular assessments to evaluate student progress and tailor instructional methods to meet individual needs
Develop and implement engaging lesson plans to promote academic growth and social development in young learners
Teacher
Foundation for Behavioral Resources
08.2007 - 06.2018
Manage classroom responsibilities including education, discipline, emergency drills (fire/weather/lockdown), progress reports, report cards, money and permission slips for field trips, grade recording and collecting/correcting work with and without rubrics
Work with parents and special educators to formulate Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Active in extracurricular activities such as Dance Club, Girls on the Run, PTO, Poetry Slam
Implement formative and summative assessments to measure student progress and adjust teaching methods accordingly
Establish a positive and inclusive classroom environment that promoted student collaboration and respect for diversity
Education
Graduate Certificate Program - School Improvement with a focus on Trauma-Informed Teaching Practices
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI
12-2020
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction with Early Childhood Focus
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI
12-2018
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Aquinas College
Grand Rapids, MI
12-2005
Skills
Trauma-informed Instruction
Critical Thinking
Teamwork
Time Management
Mentoring/Coaching
Custom Section
MAPSA Conference Presenter, 2012
PTO Teacher Representative, 2012-2016
GVSU Charter School Office Outstanding Teacher Award finalist, 2017
Sunshine Committe Member, 2018-2020
Foundations Committee, 2020-present
District Curriculum Writing and Presenting, 2021-present
Breathe for Change Yoga Teacher and Social Emotional Learning Facilitator Certification, 2022
Urban Teacher Residency Program mentor, 2022-present
Custom Section
Junior Achievement Teacher, 2005
Girls on the Run Coach, 2005-present
Arobor Circle Adopt -a- Family Chairperson, 2009
Kalamazoo Girls on the Run Operations Committee Member, 2012
Care About Kids WMU Program Coordinator, 2012-2018
Warm Kids Project Liaison, 2015-2017
Timeline
Kindergarten Teacher
Kalamazoo Public Schools
08.2018 - Current
Teacher
Foundation for Behavioral Resources
08.2007 - 06.2018
Graduate Certificate Program - School Improvement with a focus on Trauma-Informed Teaching Practices
Western Michigan University
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction with Early Childhood Focus
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Aquinas College
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