Kathleen Figel
Chicago,IL
Summary
Special Education Teacher with a wide variety of experience who is equipped with positive attitude and patience vital to working with children, and young adults. Certified and licensed in Illinois and recognized as highly qualified educator. Coordinates well with classroom teachers using supportive strategies for behavior management and lesson accommodations for students.
Overview
40
40
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Garden Coordinator
Edna White Community Garden
Chicago
02.1993 - Current
- Enhanced community engagement by organizing garden workshops and events for local residents.
- Improved garden accessibility by developing and implementing a plot reservation system.
- Utilized grant writing skills to secure additional program funding.
- Boosted volunteer participation, coordinating regular workdays and providing training opportunities.
- Managed budget effectively to allocate funds for garden maintenance, improvements, and community events.
- Promoted environmental awareness through educational programming focused on organic gardening methods, composting, and water conservation.
- Launched youth programs like after-school gardening clubs or summer camps exposing younger generations to benefits of urban agriculture early on in their lives.
- Partnered with local organizations to expand access to social and community services.
Resource Teacher
Blue Island School District 130
Veterans Memorial Middle School
01.1984 - 05.2022
- Increased student understanding by utilizing various teaching methods and adapting to individual learning styles.
- Enhanced student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and group projects into lessons.
- Provided support for struggling students through targeted one-on-one instruction, improving overall class performance.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary units, promoting a well-rounded education for all students.
- Assessed student progress regularly using formative assessments, adjusting instructional strategies as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
- Served as a mentor for new teachers on staff, offering guidance on effective teaching practices and classroom management techniques.
- Led after-school tutoring sessions for students needing additional academic support in core subject areas.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Education
Master of Arts - Vocational Education And Consultation in Education
University of Illinois At Chicago
Chicago, ILMaster of Arts - Education of Individuals in Elementary Special Education
Western Illinois University
Macomb, ILSkills
- Multicultural Awareness
- Individualized Instruction
- Social Skills Training
- Active Listening
- Conflict Resolution
- Community Outreach
- Breathe for Change Yoga Instructor
- Behavior Management
Timeline
Community Garden Coordinator
Edna White Community Garden
02.1993 - Current
Resource Teacher
Blue Island School District 130
01.1984 - 05.2022
Master of Arts - Vocational Education And Consultation in Education
University of Illinois At Chicago
Master of Arts - Education of Individuals in Elementary Special Education
Western Illinois University