Joy Garvey
Burlington,MA
Summary
Dedicated Wilson Reading Teacher with 30+ years of experience in literacy and special education. Skilled in implementing the Wilson Reading System and administering diagnostic assessments to create individualized learning plans for diverse learners. Recognized for fostering measurable student growth through structured, multi-sensory instruction and strong collaboration with families and educators. Committed to advancing reading skills and helping students in grades 3–12 meet and exceed ambitious learning goals.
Overview
46
46
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Title I Teacher
Billerica Public Schools
10.2025 - Current
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Utilized data-driven instruction to tailor lessons for improved academic performance.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.
- Communicated frequently with parents, students, and faculty to provide feedback and discuss instructional strategies.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences to stay current in educational trends.
Wilson Reading Teacher
Billerica Public Schools
07.2017 - 06.2025
- Provided Wilson Reading instruction to students in grades 3–10.
- Conducted diagnostic evaluations to determine student placement and instructional needs.
- Designed and implemented daily lesson plans aligned with the Wilson Scope and Sequence.
- Delivered multi-sensory instruction to strengthen decoding, encoding, and sound-symbol relationships.
- Maintained ongoing communication with general and special education teachers to align learning objectives and goals.
- Prepared progress reports and contributed written input for all IEP meetings.
- Utilized the Wilson Student Notebook system to track progress and document mastery.
- Partnered with families to review student progress and provide program updates.
- Conducted end-of-year assessments to measure achievement and inform instructional planning.
Wilson Reading Teacher
BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
07.2017 - 08.2017
- Taught ESY Program
- Delivered structured, phonologically based reading intervention to students in grades 1–9 during summer sessions to prevent and remediate skill regression.
Wilson Reading Teacher
Milford Public Schools
09.2011 - 05.2013
- Designed and delivered engaging instruction aligned with the Wilson Reading System Scope and Sequence.
- Applied therapeutic, multi-sensory techniques to strengthen students’ decoding, encoding, and sound-symbol knowledge.
- Conducted diagnostic assessments to monitor progress and adjust instruction to individual needs.
Wilson Reading Teacher
HOLLISTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
09.2002 - 05.2011
- Planned, implemented, and assessed an intensive reading program using multi-sensory techniques to teach sound-symbol relationships for grades 3–8.
- Conducted diagnostic assessments and analyzed student data to determine eligibility and placement in the Wilson Reading System.
- Formed appropriately matched Wilson groups based on reading levels, pacing expectations, and classroom schedules.
- Set ambitious goals for student mastery of Wilson benchmark skills and monitored progress toward them.
- Designed and delivered engaging instruction aligned with the Wilson Scope and Sequence, maintaining fidelity to lesson plans.
- Utilized the Wilson Student Notebook system to document student growth in decoding and encoding skills.
- Collaborated with general education and inclusion teachers to align learning objectives and monitor progress.
- Prepared and submitted input for student progress reports and IEP meetings.
- Partnered with families to review learning objectives, share progress, and support student growth.
- Conducted summative assessments to evaluate student outcomes and guide instructional planning.
Special Education Teacher
Milford Public Schools
09.1988 - 06.2002
- Set high expectations for student behavior and applied effective classroom management with positive reinforcement, resulting in improved student engagement and respect for all.
- Observed and assessed each student’s interests, learning style, and background to design individualized classroom supports.
- Created a positive, supportive classroom environment that fostered emotional well-being and academic growth.
- Delivered direct instruction across academic areas for students with disabilities, including those with behavioral and emotional challenges.
- Designed and adapted curricula and assessments to meet diverse student needs, modifying instruction when appropriate.
- Chaired IEP meetings, prepared documentation, and ensured compliance with educational requirements.
- Maintained accurate student records and progress reports to support data-driven decision-making.
- Collaborated with parents, administrators, faculty, and outside agencies to align educational and social supports.
- Supported students and families in developing interpersonal and self-advocacy skills.
- Supervised and delegated responsibilities to special education assistants, ensuring consistency in instruction and support.
Special Education Teacher
Hopedale Public Schools
09.1982 - 06.1988
- As the only SPED teacher on the elementary level, managed all aspects of special education services, including screening, diagnosis, and instruction for students spanning pre-kindergarten through high school.
- Chaired and facilitated Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and parent information sessions, ensuring compliance and collaborative goal setting.
- Supervised and delegated responsibilities to paraprofessionals, enhancing instructional support and classroom efficiency.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with faculty, administration, parents, and external agencies to ensure cohesive student support plans.
Special Education Teacher
Milford Public Schools
09.1979 - 06.1982
- Provided direct instruction to students with disabilities and prepared daily lesson plans in accordance with IEP objectives.
- Chaired IEP meetings and provided diagnostic assessments.
- Advised faculty and parents on student’s programs and progress.
Education
Master's degree - Integrating the Arts into the Curriculum
Lesley College
Cambridge, MA01.1991
Gesell Developmental Assessment System (Pre-school Screening) (Gesell Institute of Human Development)
Yale University
New Haven, CT01.1987
Orton-Gillingham Reading (Orton-Gillingham Program of Education in Therapy For Specific Reading Disabilities)
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, MA01.1986
Bachelor's degree - English & Special Education
Providence College
Providence, RI01.1979
Skills
- Curriculum development
- Lesson planning
- Literacy education
- Reporting and documentation
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking
- Relationship building
- Motivating students
- Positive role model and mentor
- Group and individual instruction
- Subject matter expertise
- Empathy and patience
Certification
- Special Education Certification
- Teaching Certification
- Educator License with Stipulations
Timeline
Title I Teacher
Billerica Public Schools
10.2025 - Current
Wilson Reading Teacher
Billerica Public Schools
07.2017 - 06.2025
Wilson Reading Teacher
BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
07.2017 - 08.2017
Wilson Reading Teacher
Milford Public Schools
09.2011 - 05.2013
Wilson Reading Teacher
HOLLISTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
09.2002 - 05.2011
Special Education Teacher
Milford Public Schools
09.1988 - 06.2002
Special Education Teacher
Hopedale Public Schools
09.1982 - 06.1988
Special Education Teacher
Milford Public Schools
09.1979 - 06.1982
Bachelor's degree - English & Special Education
Providence College
Master's degree - Integrating the Arts into the Curriculum
Lesley College
Gesell Developmental Assessment System (Pre-school Screening) (Gesell Institute of Human Development)
Yale University
Orton-Gillingham Reading (Orton-Gillingham Program of Education in Therapy For Specific Reading Disabilities)
Massachusetts General Hospital