Josephine Simms
Kenosha,WI
Summary
Quick-learning team player with proficiency in communication, patience and organization. Dependable record keeper with experience in completing detailed paperwork including writing IEPs (Individualized Educational Plans). Friendly and professional demeanor when interacting and greeting others.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Kenosha Unified School District
08.2021 - Current
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Modified curriculum for special needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Taught a small classroom of students with an EBD diagnosis (Emotional Behavior Disability).
- Wrote Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and referenced them when working with each individual student.
- Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support.
Special Education Teacher
Special Education District Of Lake County
01.2020 - 08.2021
- Create daily lesson plans that are differentiated for a group of students with autism that are at different academic levels and that use various learning styles.
- Work with a team of specialists and therapists to ensure that each student is receiving the supports they need based on their IEPs.
- Assist students in self regulating themselves by offering calming strategies and support (and/or referencing their BIP if they have one) when they seem to be upset or triggered by something in their environment.
- Take daily data on each student's progress toward their academic, behavioral and functional IEP goals.
Paraprofessional
Special Education District Of Lake County
06.2017 - 05.2019
- Assist the teacher in implementing lesson plans by providing academic and behavioral support for students with intellectual disabilities that have severe behavior issues.
- Help students self regulate by offering calming strategies and support based on their BIPs.
- Create classroom visuals and social stories using the program, Boardmaker.
- Assist students in using the toilet or potty training/ changing their diapers.
Assisted Living Assistant
Clearbrook
08.2016 - 08.2018
- Provide in home care for a child with autism.
- Monitor and record the child's at home functional goals- such as hanging up his backpack and coat, completing his chores, and doing his homework.
- Offer calming strategies to the student when he is upset because his mom is at work.
- Attended quarterly meetings with my supervisor and the parent to discuss progress and next steps.
Habilitation Aide
Mount Saint Joseph
09.2016 - 10.2017
- Provide care for women with various disabilities in a group home setting
- Keep track of each women's progress toward their academic and/or behavioral goals.
- Perform housekeeping duties, such as cooking, cleaning, washing clothes or dishes, or running errands.
- Instruct or advise clients on issues such as household cleanliness, utilities, hygiene, nutrition, or infant care.
- Assist the women in using the bathroom, bathing, and going to bed.
Education
Master of Arts - Special Education
Marian University
Fond Du Lac, Wi 05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Carthage College
Kenosha, Wi 05.2001 -
Skills
Admission, Review and Dismissal Process
Curriculum Adjustments
Student Records Management
Detailed IEP Writing
Consistent contact with families
De-Escalation Techniques
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Kenosha Unified School District
08.2021 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Special Education District Of Lake County
01.2020 - 08.2021
Paraprofessional
Special Education District Of Lake County
06.2017 - 05.2019
Habilitation Aide
Mount Saint Joseph
09.2016 - 10.2017
Assisted Living Assistant
Clearbrook
08.2016 - 08.2018
Master of Arts - Special Education
Marian University
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Carthage College
05.2001 -