Karen T. McPherson
Reno,NV
Summary
Versatile and dedicated Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing with focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of hands-on lessons, catering to diverse learning abilities. Proficient in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement. Exceptional skills working with teachers, parents, and specialists to meet the individual needs of each student.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Itinerant Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
San Bernardino County Superintendent Of Schools
01.2020 - 08.2023
- Worked directly with Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH) students on IEP goals and managing hearing assistive technology.
- Collaborated with other educators, administrators, families, and related service providers to understand the individualized needs of each DHH.
- Collaborated with other educators to develop instructional strategies that support the individualized needs of DHH students.
- Facilitated in-service trainings for educators, families, and students on the use and management of hearing assistive technology used in the academic setting.
- Assisted with the designed individual education plans to encourage student growth according to different learning abilities and needs, specifically DHH needs.
- Helped DHH students integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers understand the unique needs of their DHH students.
- Conducted assessments of DHH students to determine individual needs, specifically in the areas of reading, writing, and self-advocacy.
- Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' individual hearing needs on multiple front.
- Advocated for the needs of DHH students both within the county and across three different school districts associated with San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools.
Substitute Teacher
San Bernardino County Superintendent Of Schools
03.2016 - 01.2020
- Worked in a variety of Special Education Programs, including Autism, Early Education, Adaptive Physical Education, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, and Visually Impaired.
- Directed, assisted, and encouraged completion of all teacher initiated activities in a variety of educational settings, including Alternative Education Programs and Special Education Programs.
- Implemented and upheld classroom routines and student care activities such as: toileting, diapering, face and hand washing, manipulation of clothing and feeding; Preparation of educational materials and teaching aids; Effectively supervise students; Maintain classroom records; Work cooperatively and communicate effectively with parents, school district personnel, law enforcement, health services and social services representatives.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers and principals based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
Caregiver, Special Needs
California Respite Care
08.2018 - 12.2019
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
- Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization, and activity while providing personal care assistance.
- Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
- Supported daily hygiene needs of patients by assisting with bathing, dressing, dental care and personal grooming.
IHSS Care Provider
California, Aging and Adult Services
08.2015 - 01.2017
- Responsible for providing reliable, safe, high quality services as authorized by the social worker and directed by the consumer.
- In-home support-service caregivers provide a range of services for clients, such as bathing them, preparing meals, light housework, shopping for groceries, helping them go to the bathroom or even providing companionship and conversation.
- Services also include helping clients remember to take prescribed medication, providing transportation to appointments with their healthcare providers, and protective supervision.
- Caregivers respected consumer's dignity, privacy, property, religion, and culture, and keep personal information about the consumer confidential.
- If necessary, it was the caregiver's responsibility to take legal action for reporting suspected abuse of dependent elderly, disabled persons and children.
Barista Trainer
Starbucks
08.2012 - 02.2016
- Assisted in opening 2 brand new stores (Fontana and Colton).
- Became the official district barista trainer.
- Trained new team members with positive reinforcement and respectful, encouraging coaching.
- Elevated customer loyalty by using strong communication abilities to resolve customer problems.
- Customized training strategies based on individual barista knowledge, experience and strengths.
- Pleasantly interacted with customers during hectic periods to promote fun, positive environment.
- Controlled line and crowd with quick, efficient service.
- Maintained and operated espresso machines, blenders, commercial coffee brewers, coffee pots, and other equipment.
Education
Masters of Special Education - Special Education; Deaf Hard of Hearing
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ12.2023
Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential - Elementary Education
University of Redlands School of Education
Redlands, CA04.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Communicative Disorders
University of Redlands
Redlands, CA05.2012
Skills
- Ability to assess complex situations and formulate solutions in different classrooms
- Trained in conflict resolution, CPR/first aid, and suicide prevention
- Strong communication, interaction, and relationship-building skills acquired through work and education experience
- Organizational skills, ability to multi-task, and accomplish multiple objectives
- Enjoys working in a fast-paced team environment and equally comfortable as an individual contributor
- Knowledgeable with hearing assistive technology (hearing aids, BAHAs, Cochlear Implants, remote microphones, etc)
- IEP Development skills
- Ability to professionally manage a caseload upwards of 60 students in three different school districts
Languages
American Sign Language
Professional Working
Timeline
Itinerant Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
San Bernardino County Superintendent Of Schools
01.2020 - 08.2023
Caregiver, Special Needs
California Respite Care
08.2018 - 12.2019
Substitute Teacher
San Bernardino County Superintendent Of Schools
03.2016 - 01.2020
IHSS Care Provider
California, Aging and Adult Services
08.2015 - 01.2017
Barista Trainer
Starbucks
08.2012 - 02.2016
Masters of Special Education - Special Education; Deaf Hard of Hearing
University of Arizona
Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential - Elementary Education
University of Redlands School of Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communicative Disorders
University of Redlands
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