Joanna Megan Alfone
Roseland,NJ
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Special Education Teacher with over a decade of experience supporting students with diverse academic, cognitive, medical, and behavioral needs. Proven track record in both public and nonprofit educational settings, specializing in In-Class Resource (ICR) support and Individualized Education Program (IEP) implementation. Committed to fostering student independence and confidence through differentiated instruction, strong family-school partnerships, and active involvement in school culture.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Bedminster Township School
Bedminster, NJ
01.2021 - Current
- Current Assignment: Serve as a 7th Grade In-Class Resource (ICR) Teacher, providing targeted academic and behavioral support within inclusive general education settings.
- Instructional Leadership: Develop and execute individualized instructional strategies across grades K–8 to meet rigorous IEP goals and state standards.
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Partner closely with general education faculty, case managers, and therapists to ensure a cohesive, supportive learning environment.
- Extended School Year (ESY): Facilitate summer instruction for students requiring continuous educational services to prevent regression and maintain developmental milestones.
- Differentiation: Expertly adapt curriculum for various learning styles, academic levels, and behavioral requirements to ensure equitable access to education.
Special Education Teacher
Pillar High School
Livingston, NJ
01.2017 - 01.2021
- Educated students with severe medical, cognitive, and physical disabilities in a specialized nonprofit setting.
- Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team—including nurses and therapists—to integrate medical care with functional academic and life-skills goals.
- Designed and implemented highly customized behavioral programs to increase student autonomy.
Teaching Assistant & Teacher
Matheny School
Peapack, NJ
01.2011 - 01.2015
- Supported students with complex, medically fragile conditions in a classroom and therapeutic environment.
- Assisted in the delivery of adaptive learning activities and daily care routines, ensuring a safe and engaging educational experience.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Historical Studies, Educational Studies
Centenary University
New Jersey05-2011
Skills
- IEP Development
- Inclusive Education
- Behavioral Intervention
- Differentiated Instruction
- Classroom Management
- Adaptive Technology
- Staff Collaboration
- Student Mentorship
- Strong Community Relations
Certification
- New Jersey State Certifications:
- Teacher of Students with Disabilities (K-12)
- Elementary Education (K-5)
- Middle School History Endorsement (Grades 5-8)
- CPR/First Aid Certified
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Bedminster Township School
01.2021 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Pillar High School
01.2017 - 01.2021
Teaching Assistant & Teacher
Matheny School
01.2011 - 01.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Historical Studies, Educational Studies
Centenary University
Leadership and Extracurricular Engagement
Bedminster Township School
- Student Council Advisor: Lead student leadership initiatives, including school-wide events, fundraising, and community-building programs.
- Middle School Softball Coach: Mentor student-athletes in teamwork, sportsmanship, and skill development.
- 3rd Grade Cooking Club Advisor: Facilitate after-school enrichment focusing on creativity, safety, and student engagement.
- Ski Club Monitor: Supervise students during winter off-site recreational programs.
Community Involvement
- Planned and coordinated multiple student-focused events throughout the academic year that promoted social engagement, leadership, and community involvement.
- Organized food, clothing, and holiday toy drives, with donations benefiting the Somerset County Food Bank and local children’s hospitals.
- Participate in annual fundraising and donation efforts for Samaritan's Purse through the “Operation Christmas Child” shoebox program, collecting and packaging essential items, clothing, school supplies, and toys for children in underserved communities worldwide.
- Initiated and coordinated grocery and errand assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic to support vulnerable community members.
- Maintained a three-year volunteer commitment assisting elderly residents through companionship, transportation, and practical daily support, strengthening community relationships and support networks.