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
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
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
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)
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)