MMD / LBD Teacher
Joseph Ricketts
Jefferson County Public Schools District
Louisville,KY
Summary
Dedicated special education teacher with a strong commitment to empowering students with disabilities to achieve academic, social, and personal growth. Known for leadership, student advocacy, and building positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Brings energy to the school community by embracing school culture, promoting inclusion, and creating supportive learning environments where every student can succeed.
1
Certificate
7
Years of experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher
9 Months- Adapted instruction and classroom routines to address diverse academic and behavioral needs, providing clear directions and individualized assistance.
- Established rapport with students and collaborated with school staff to ensure continuity of instruction and adherence to classroom expectations.
- Implemented classroom lesson plans across varied grade levels and subjects while maintaining safe, organized, and productive learning environments.
Spartan Marching Band Media Team
10 Months- Captured high-quality video content that effectively supported promotional and educational initiatives.
- Edited video content to enhance engagement across promotional campaigns and social media platforms.
- Reviewed and refined footage to ensure clarity and visual appeal in final edits, contributing to overall project quality.
- Added graphics, titles, audio, and special effects to video edits.
TCMB Band Camp Staff
7 Years- Supervised daily camp activities ensuring safety and engagement for all participants.
- Mentored students in musical expression and performance skills.
- Developed relationships with students, parents, staff members, and administrators to ensure the best outcomes for all involved parties.
- Conducted regular rehearsals to develop musical techniques and performance skills.
- Mentored students in leadership roles within the marching band organization.
YMCA Camp Staff
2 Years 3 Months- Planned and implemented educational programs aligned with YMCA values.
- Coordinated team-building exercises to promote cooperation among campers.
- Supervised daily camp activities for youth and ensured safety protocols.
MMD / LBD Teacher
1 Year 2 Months- Provided specialized instruction to 30 students in grades 6–8 with learning disabilities, health impairments, and emotional/behavioral needs, fostering individualized growth and engagement.
- Implement IEP supports, collect and analyze progress-monitoring data, and use student performance trends to adjust instruction and document growth.
- Implemented proactive classroom management and behavior support strategies, collaborating with teachers, support staff, and families to enhance student success and well-being.
- Design and deliver differentiated Social Studies, Life Skills, Science, Math, and English instruction using scaffolded texts, visuals, explicit modeling, and accessible student-centered activities.
- Adapted grade-level curriculum, assessments, and learning materials, increasing access, independence, and meaningful participation for diverse learners.
Assistant Video Editor
5 Months- Edited and refined footage using software for seamless final delivery.
- Collaborated on video editing for diverse client projects to meet specific requirements.
- Organized and maintained digital asset libraries for efficient access and retrieval.
Education
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) - Learning & Behavior Disorders
Bachelor's Degree - Media & Information / Filmmaking
- Brough SMB Leadership Award Recipient
Skills
IEP Development & Implementation
Specially Designed Instruction
Behavior Management
Differentiated Instruction
Progress Monitoring & Data Collection
Student Advocacy
Collaborative Teaching
Family & Staff Communication
Classroom Leadership
School Culture & Student Engagement
Accommodations & Modifications
Certification
Kentucky Teaching Certification / Learning & Behavior Disorders
Timeline
MMD / LBD Teacher
Jefferson County Public Schools District
08.2025 - Current
Substitute Teacher
Lansing Area Schools
09.2024 - 06.2025
Spartan Marching Band Media Team
Michigan State University
08.2024 - 06.2025
YMCA Camp Staff
YMCA
05.2024 - 08.2026
Assistant Video Editor
Render Studios
01.2024 - 06.2024
TCMB Band Camp Staff
Troy School District
08.2019 - 08.2026
Spalding University
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) from Learning & Behavior Disorders
Michigan State University
Bachelor's Degree from Media & Information / Filmmaking
LEADERSHIP & HONORS
AmeriCorps Member - Teach Kentucky | 2025-Current
- Completed AmeriCorps national service focused on education and community service.
- Earned the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of service.
Knights of Columbus — Member | 2025-Current
- Participate in charitable service, community outreach, and volunteer initiatives supporting local families and community needs.
Spartan Marching Band - Tuba Section Leader | 2022–2024
- Selected for a multi-year student leadership role at Michigan State University. Supported section organization, peer mentorship, rehearsal standards, and team culture; received scholarships recognizing leadership and service.