Karen Van Heest
Colchester,CT
Summary
As a retired certified teacher with 14 years of experience as well as 10 years of substitute teaching I am confident that I can provide children of any age a safe and productive day while their assigned teacher is absent.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Start Preschool Teacher
Manchester Public Schools
08.2012 - 06.2024
- Fostered a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations, encouraging open communication, and maintaining consistent routines for a class of 17-18 three and four year olds.
- Incorporated play-based activities into daily routines to promote cognitive development and enhance social skills among young learners.
- Increased parent involvement through home visits, regular communication, and conferences.
- Represented district in Executive Function consortium then collaborated with colleagues to share strategies, resources, and ideas for continuous improvement of the curriculum and student development.
- Developed individualized learning plans for students with special needs, ensuring growth and progress based on child's IEP.
- Implemented evidence-based interventions for struggling students after conducting thorough assessments of their needs and strengths.
- Assessed student performance regularly, utilizing data to inform instructional adjustments and improve overall achievement levels.
- Mentored new teachers and student teachers to ensure their successful integration into the Head Start program and adherence to established policies and guidelines.
- Maintained detailed records of student progress, attendance, behavior issues, and other relevant information for reporting purposes.
- Aligned lessons with federal Head Start performance standards while adhering to state preschool requirements for content delivery through the use of Creative Curriculum.
- Cultivated a culture of respect within the classroom by modeling appropriate behavior, setting clear expectations, and addressing conflicts in a timely manner.
- Established positive relationships with students and families.
- Organized and supervised large and small group activities.
- Modeled positive behavior and communication skills for students.
- Guided students to develop social, emotional and physical skills.
- Planned and executed activities to stimulate physical, social and intellectual growth.
- Implemented age-appropriate curricula to meet needs of young learners.
- Collaborated with teachers, parents and administrators to facilitate positive outcomes for students.
- Incorporated music, art and literature into curriculum.
Head Start Preschool Teacher
CRT
04.2010 - 08.2012
- Fostered a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations, encouraging open communication, and maintaining consistent routines.
- Incorporated play-based activities into daily routines to promote cognitive development and enhance social skills among young learners.
- Assessed student performance regularly, utilizing data to inform instructional adjustments and improve overall achievement levels.
- Aligned lessons with federal Head Start performance standards while adhering to state preschool requirements for content delivery.
- Cultivated a culture of respect within the classroom by modeling appropriate behavior, setting clear expectations, and addressing conflicts in a timely manner.
Substitute Teacher
Colchester Public Schools
03.2000 - 03.2010
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Supervised lunchroom and recess activities.
Kindergarten Special Education Teacher
Colchester Public Schools
11.2009 - 12.2009
- Long term substitute in an inclusive full day kindergarten class.
- Co-taught class of 21 children, executing and adapting lesson plans for all children.
- Ensured adaptations and goals were met for six identified children based on each child's IEP.
- Collaborated with regular education teacher, SLP, OT and PT on individual child's needs.
Education
Master of Science - Early Childhood Education
Eastern Connecticut State University
Willimantic, CT05-2010
Bachelor of Science - Sociology
Eastern Connecticut State University
Willimantic, CT12-2005
Timeline
Head Start Preschool Teacher
Manchester Public Schools
08.2012 - 06.2024
Head Start Preschool Teacher
CRT
04.2010 - 08.2012
Kindergarten Special Education Teacher
Colchester Public Schools
11.2009 - 12.2009
Substitute Teacher
Colchester Public Schools
03.2000 - 03.2010
Master of Science - Early Childhood Education
Eastern Connecticut State University
Bachelor of Science - Sociology
Eastern Connecticut State University
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