- Hiking
- Outdoor Recreation
- Crafting and DIY projects
- Avid reader
- Gym workouts
Jessica Higby
Hagerstown,MD
Summary
Dedicated Paraprofessional skilled in behavior management and effective communication. Proven ability to support special needs students and collaborate with educators, creating a positive learning environment.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Sped IAS Paraprofessional
WCPS
Hagerstown, MD
04.2025 - Current
- Supported individualized education plans (IEPs) through tailored instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with staff to create a positive learning environment for students.
- Monitored student progress and provided feedback to educators on performance.
- Implemented behavior management techniques to enhance student focus and participation.
- Organized educational materials and resources to facilitate effective lesson delivery.
- Adapted instructional methods based on diverse student needs and learning styles.
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
- Participated in professional development workshops to enhance support skills and strategies.
- Supervised students during non-instructional periods such as lunch, recess, or field trips, ensuring safety at all times.
- Supported special education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with diverse learning needs.
Sped Pre-K Paraprofessional
WCPS
Hagerstown, MD
10.2023 - 04.2025
- Supported classroom activities by assisting teachers with lesson implementation and student engagement.
- Facilitated individual and group learning sessions, promoting social skills and academic development.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to enhance student focus and participation.
- Collaborated with educators to design personalized learning plans for diverse learners.
- Organized classroom materials and resources, ensuring an optimal learning environment for students.
- Participated in professional development workshops to enhance educational techniques and methodologies.
- Improved student learning outcomes by implementing engaging and age-appropriate activities for Pre-K children.
- Contributed ideas during staff meetings aimed at improving overall quality and effectiveness of the Pre-K program.
- Enhanced classroom management by creating a positive and nurturing environment for young learners.
Sped Paraprofessional
WCPS
Hagerstown, MD
03.2023 - 10.2023
- Implemented individualized education plans to support student learning and development.
- Assisted teachers in classroom management, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
- Collaborated with special education staff to adapt instructional materials and resources.
- Monitored student progress and reported observations to facilitate effective interventions.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with diverse learning needs during lessons.
- Utilized assistive technology tools to enhance student engagement and participation.
- Developed strategies to promote social skills and peer interactions among students.
- Participated in training sessions to improve knowledge of special education practices and policies.
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
- Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
- Assisted in the implementation of effective behavior management techniques, resulting in a more focused and positive classroom environment.
Substitute Teacher
WCPS
Hagerstown, MD
11.2018 - 08.2022
- Delivered engaging instruction across diverse subjects to maintain student interest and participation.
- Implemented classroom management strategies to foster a positive learning environment.
- Adapted lesson plans to accommodate varying student needs and learning styles.
- Collaborated with permanent staff to ensure continuity of education during teacher absences.
- Developed and maintained effective communication with students, parents, and faculty members.
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
Lunch Assistant
WCPS
Hagerstown, MD
10.2017 - 09.2021
- Assisted in meal preparation and service to ensure timely delivery of lunch items.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization in dining areas to enhance student experience.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline food service processes for efficiency.
- Monitored compliance with health and safety regulations during food handling procedures.
- Monitored lunchroom behavior while maintaining a calm demeanor to ensure a pleasant dining experience for all students present at that moment.
Education
High School Diploma -
Fort Hill H.S
Cumberland, MDSkills
- Behavior management
- Effective communication
- Helping with special needs
- Small group and individual assistance
- Calm and patient demeanor
- Data collection
- Classroom organization
- Special Education
- Classroom management
- Student supervision
- Instructional support
- Teacher support and collaboration
- Emotional support
- Conflict resolution techniques
- Individual instruction
- Multicultural awareness
- Social support
Interests
Timeline
Sped IAS Paraprofessional
WCPS
04.2025 - Current
Sped Pre-K Paraprofessional
WCPS
10.2023 - 04.2025
Sped Paraprofessional
WCPS
03.2023 - 10.2023
Substitute Teacher
WCPS
11.2018 - 08.2022
Lunch Assistant
WCPS
10.2017 - 09.2021
High School Diploma -
Fort Hill H.S