Joan Clare Tiihonen
Alanson,Michigan
Summary
Motivated educator with a strong focus on building positive relationships with students, families, and staff. Committed to creating safe, engaging learning experiences that support diverse learning styles and foster independence.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher
Edustaff
Grand Rapids, MI
2025 - Current
- Implement lesson plans to ensure continuity of education in absence of primary teachers.
- Maintain classroom discipline and fostered a positive learning environment for diverse students.
Elementary Special Education Teacher
COPESD
Indian River, MI
08.2023 - 06.2025
- Completed my Student Teaching experience in the classroom, developing individualized education plans to meet diverse student needs and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance student learning outcomes
- Utilized assistive technology tools to support student engagement and participation and adapted instructional materials for varied learning styles and abilities
Paraprofessional
CHAREM
Charlevoix, MI
09.2019 - 06.2023
- Assisted teachers in implementing individualized education plans for students with diverse learning needs and supported classroom activities, fostering an inclusive environment for students with disabilities.
- Facilitated small group instruction, promoting social skills and peer interactions among students and developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
Additional Related Experience
Listed Below
1999 - 2015
- Beginner Swim Lesson Instructor, Petoskey Swimming, Petoskey, Michigan
- Life Enrichment Director, Independence Village, Petoskey, MI
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Northern Michigan Regional Hospital, Petoskey, Michigan
- Youth Activity Coordinator, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Miami, Florida
- Food & Beverage Manager and Event Coordinator, Antonio's Cabaret, Catalina Island, California and Avalanche Bay Water Park, Boyne Falls, Michigan
- Assistant Manager, Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Education
Master of Arts - Elementary Special Education
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI08-2025
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Recreation Therapy
Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA2012
Bachelor of Science - Leisure Studies
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL1993
Skills
- Talented program leader with extensive experience developing engaging learning environments
- Skilled at creating inclusive experiences that support growth, independence abnd lifelong learning
- Dedicated to fostering positive relationships with students, their families, and additinal support staff to help all individuals reach their full potential
- Prioritize safety in the classroom, with certifications in Lifeguarding, CPR, First Aid, behavior management and Commercial Driver's License
Accomplishments
Training for Detroit Free Press International Half Marathon
Working towards life-long goal of volunteering at the Olympics in 2028
Timeline
Elementary Special Education Teacher
COPESD
08.2023 - 06.2025
Paraprofessional
CHAREM
09.2019 - 06.2023
Substitute Teacher
Edustaff
2025 - Current
Additional Related Experience
Listed Below
1999 - 2015
Master of Arts - Elementary Special Education
Central Michigan University
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Recreation Therapy
Eastern Washington University
Bachelor of Science - Leisure Studies
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign