Jessica Gigantino
Arlington,VA
Summary
Dedicated, resourceful, and goal-driven Special Education Teacher able to lead initiatives within Arlington County Public Schools. Committed to fostering academic, social, and emotional growth by building student strengths, promoting confidence, and maintaining high expectations. Skilled in developing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), using evidence-based strategies, and differentiating instruction to support diverse learning needs. Recognized for creating structured, dependable, and inclusive learning environments that support student success. Passionate about collaboration, student advocacy, and applying best practices to ensure meaningful progress for all learners
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Arlington County Public Schools
Arlington, VA
08.2023 - Current
- Special education team lead supervising and mentoring assistant teachers and support staff, providing guidance and support, and attending county-wide meetings for updates and information to provide to the school
- Developing and implementing lesson plans, ensuring alignment with curriculum standards, and creating a positive learning environment
- Participating in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities
- Administered and documented Woodcock-Johnson IV Academic Achievement Tests for students in grades 1–5
- Served as case manager for 10 students in one academic year, monitoring academic progress, maintaining records, and analyzing data
- Providing direct special education services to students in grades K–4 through push-in and pull-out models
- Supporting general education teachers during core academic instruction by co-teaching and modifying curriculum
- Delivering targeted small-group instruction in reading, writing, and math using programs such as CKLA, 95% Phonics, and Lexia
- Collaborating regularly with general education staff, therapists, families, and outside specialists to ensure student success
- Creating and implementing individualized supports, including goals, social stories, visual aids, and academic/social previews
Special Education Teacher of Students With Autism
Prince William County
Dumfries, VA
08.2019 - 06.2022
- Led a safe and orderly environment for all students
- Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events
- Case manager for 8 students monitoring student progress, data, and records
- Performed SOL, VAAP, and PALS assessments
- Planed and implemented lessons in all content areas aligned with the county curriculum guide based on differentiated learning needs
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with support through programs like Edmark, Canvas, Lexia, and Origo
- Collaborated with families, instructional assistants, other teachers, and school administrators
- Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices
Special Education Teacher
Lidenwold Preschool
Lindenwold, NJ
09.2018 - 06.2019
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs and the Creative Curriculum
- Provided modifications and accommodations for general education teachers lesson plans
- Developed individual educational plans designed to promote academically challenging and engaging learning styles to meet all students needs
- Tracked student progress through benchmark assessments and progress reports
ESY Preschool Instructional Assistant
Haviland Avenue Elementary
Audubon, NJ
07.2018 - 08.2018
- Maintained a child-friendly environment with access to outdoor activities
- Worked closely with the site director, family care workers, classroom teaching team and other specialists
- Collaborated with colleagues on developing new classroom projects and monthly themes
Instructional Assistant Special Education/ ELA Resource Teacher
Mansion Avenue School
Audubon, NJ
09.2017 - 06.2018
- Providedd additional support during academic lessons using programs like Fundations and McGraw- Hill Math
- Provide behavioral support
- Maximized instructional time
- Altered lesson plans to meet IEP requirements
- Collaborated with other teachers regularly
- Implemented differentiated teaching strategies
Maternity Leave Substitute
Pitman Middle School
Pitman, NJ
05.2017 - 06.2017
- Taught students at various learning levels individually and in small groups to assist with all academic subjects
- Established positive relationships with students, parents, and staff to enhance student learning
- Collaborated with other staff members to plan and schedule motivating lessons promoting student engagement
Maternity Leave Substitute
WCK Walls Elementary School
Pitman, NJ
11.2016 - 03.2017
- Designed and executed a unit plan of lessons for ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies
- Implemented and designed individualized behavior modification programs
- Facilitated technology based lessons
Education
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood/ Special Education
East Stroudsburg University
East Stroudsburg, PA2016
Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Behavior Management and Modifications
- Excellent Classroom Management
- Handle with Care Certified
- Individual Education Plans, eligibility process, Reevaluation Process
- Curriculum development and adapting
- AT for Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
- Collaborating with families, community, and staff to support the success
Affiliations
Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society for Education Member of the Gamma Xi Chapter at East Stroudsburg University Council for Exceptional Children Pennsylvania State Education Association
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Arlington County Public Schools
08.2023 - Current
Special Education Teacher of Students With Autism
Prince William County
08.2019 - 06.2022
Special Education Teacher
Lidenwold Preschool
09.2018 - 06.2019
ESY Preschool Instructional Assistant
Haviland Avenue Elementary
07.2018 - 08.2018
Instructional Assistant Special Education/ ELA Resource Teacher
Mansion Avenue School
09.2017 - 06.2018
Maternity Leave Substitute
Pitman Middle School
05.2017 - 06.2017
Maternity Leave Substitute
WCK Walls Elementary School
11.2016 - 03.2017
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood/ Special Education
East Stroudsburg University
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