Dedicated to expanding practices that strengthen students’ SEL and emotional intelligence Brings complementary training as a Master Reiki Practitioner, Certified Ayurveda Health Counselor, and Advanced Hypnotherapist to support mindful regulation, calm confidence, and holistic well-being in learning environments
Karen Shin
Menlo Park,CA
Summary
Experienced K–2 educator and current Master’s in Educational Therapy candidate, skilled in designing hands-on, project-based curriculum that engage students and foster a love of learning. Experienced with Wilson Fundations and Bridges Mathematics, using data-driven strategies to support literacy and math growth.
Committed to cultivating independence, collaboration, emotional regulation, kindness, and a growth mindset. Supports students in developing executive functioning skills, including goal-setting, self-monitoring, task initiation, time management, and reflective problem-solving. Dedicated to aligning instruction with individual needs and collaborating with families and allied professionals to support whole-child development.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Teacher, Level 2 (1st/2nd Grade) mixed grade level
Synapse School
Menlo Park, CA
08.2017 - Current
- Create and implement project-based, cross-curricular curriculum in literacy, math, science, social studies, and SEL, aligned with state, independent school standards, and developmental goals.
- Build differentiated lesson plans with low floors and high ceilings to meet diverse learning needs.
- Manage classroom behavior to provide a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment that is inviting, respectful, supportive, inclusive, and flexible.
- Foster student independence, collaboration, emotional regulation, kindness, and a growth mindset while maintaining high expectations and implementing rigorous curriculum.
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Collaborate closely with families, therapists, and administration to support individualized academic and social-emotional growth.
- Use multiple assessment methods to evaluate student progress and inform instruction.
- Mentor associate teachers to enhance instructional practices and contribute to schoolwide initiatives
Preschool & Kindergarten Substitute Teacher
Sacred Heart Prep
Atherton, CA
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Made every effort to be available for work when called
- Carried out responsibilities as appropriate while substituting for the incumbent teacher.
- Followed the daily plans outlined by the classroom teacher.
- Supervised students during indoor and outdoor play.
- Reporting all accidents or injuries to the office.
- Uses effective class management techniques to ensure effective learning.
Private Tutor
Atherton, CA
01.2011 - 01.2014
- Designed and delivered individualized literacy and math instruction, integrating executive functioning and SEL strategies to support academic and emotional growth.
Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
Associated Learning and Language Services (ALLS)
Redwood City, CA
01.2006 - 01.2013
- Led a child-centered TK classroom supporting academic, social-emotional, and behavioral development for neurodiverse learners.
- Developed and implemented theme-based curriculum and individualized learning plans.
- Partnered with parents to guide academic progress and SEL development of each child.
- Tracked data, generated IEP goals, and implemented behavior and sensory supports.
- Expanded communication skills through PECS, choice boards, and early signing.
- Built strong partnerships with families, therapists, and specialists, providing actionable feedback and collaborative guidance for holistic student development.
- Additional Experience: Substitute and long-term teaching roles in Santa Clara and Ravenswood School Districts (2004–2006).
Education
M.A. - Education & Educational Therapy
Notre Dame de Namur University
Clear Credential - undefined
UC San Diego Extension
01.2017
Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, K–8 - undefined
University of Phoenix
01.2004
B.A. - Psychology
University of California, Santa Cruz
01.1997
Skills
● Creative
● Constant Learning
● Team Oriented Collaboration
● Differentiated
Instruction
● Implementing Cross
Curricular Hands-On
Learning
● SEL approach to conflict resolution
Certification
- Applied Behavior Analysis for Special Education (Penn State)
- Completed coursework in ABA principles, behavior assessment, data collection, reinforcement strategies, and evidence-based interventions to support learners with diverse needs in special education settings.
- RDI Level 1 Certification - Foundational training in a relationship-based approach to supporting autistic learners, focused on strengthening social communication, flexible thinking, and emotional regulation through guided interactions with caregivers.
- Certified Medical, Clinical & Advanced Hypnotherapy
- Certified Reiki Master
- Certified Ayurveda Health Counselor
Interests
Timeline
Lead Teacher, Level 2 (1st/2nd Grade) mixed grade level
Synapse School
08.2017 - Current
Preschool & Kindergarten Substitute Teacher
Sacred Heart Prep
01.2014 - 01.2015
Private Tutor
01.2011 - 01.2014
Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
Associated Learning and Language Services (ALLS)
01.2006 - 01.2013
Clear Credential - undefined
UC San Diego Extension
Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, K–8 - undefined
University of Phoenix
B.A. - Psychology
University of California, Santa Cruz
M.A. - Education & Educational Therapy
Notre Dame de Namur University
AWARDS
Behavior Therapist of the Year, ALLS (2009), Co-Teacher of the Year, ALLS (2010)