Kelsey Russo
Winsted,Connecticut
Summary
Fifth grade reading teacher dedicated to building classroom community, encouraging a growth mindset, and fostering a love for reading and lifelong learning.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fifth Grade Teacher
Latimer Lane Elementary School
Simsbury, CT
08.2021 - Current
- Deliver reading instruction aligned with Connecticut standards, promoting engagement and both literal and inferential comprehension
- Differentiate instruction to meet individual student needs
- Assess student progress to guide instruction and foster growth
- Promote critical thinking through discussion, debate, and writing
- Collaborate with grade-level teams, support staff, and the LAC coach to refine literacy instruction
Fourth Grade Teacher
Central School
Simsbury, CT
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Developed creative lesson plans that incorporated technology and differentiated instruction for all levels of learners.
- Delivered classroom instruction and monitored student academic progress, fostering engagement and growth in core subject areas.
- Collaborated with colleagues to share best practices for instruction and intervention planning, enhancing overall teaching effectiveness.
Summer Tutor
(Self-Employed)
Burlington & Middlebury, CT
06.2020 - 08.2020
- Provided one-on-one tutoring in all core subjects to strengthen comprehension and academic performance
- Monitored student progress and engagement using educational software
- Partnered with parents to support student growth and achievement goals
Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Odyssey Community School
Manchester, CT
02.2020 - 05.2020
- Led second grade instruction and facilitated smooth transition to remote learning during school closure, ensuring continuity of education.
- Implemented technology tools, enhancing interactive learning experiences and engaging students in remote and in-person settings.
- Managed classroom behavior, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for diverse student needs.
Student Teacher
Bethlehem Elementary School
Bethlehem, CT
09.2019 - 12.2019
- Developed and delivered second-grade lessons tailored to student needs
- Engaged students in active learning through hands-on classroom activities
- Collaborated with mentor teacher to assess progress and enhance instruction
Building Substitute
Bethlehem Elementary School
Bethlehem, CT
09.2018 - 06.2019
- Facilitated instruction across grade levels during teacher absences
- Supported students with academic tasks and individualized learning
- Assisted with school events and observed teachers to learn effective practices
Paraprofessional
Plymouth Center School
Plymouth, CT
06.2015 - 08.2016
- Provided individualized support to students with special needs, enhancing academic and social engagement
- Collaborated with educators to develop personalized learning plans
- Assisted teachers with classroom management and student activities to promote participation
Education
Master of Science - Elementary Education
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT12-2019
Bachelor of Arts - English, Creative Writing, Psychology
Eastern Connecticut State University
Willimantic, CT05-2017
Skills
- ELA and cross-curricular assessment strategies
- Curriculum planning and development
- Classroom management and positive behavior reinforcement
- Educational technology integration for learning and engagement
- Collaborative teaching and team-based instructional planning
- Differentiated instruction and individualized student support
Certification
Connecticut Provisional Educator Certificate, Elementary Education (Grades 1-6)
Timeline
Fifth Grade Teacher
Latimer Lane Elementary School
08.2021 - Current
Summer Tutor
(Self-Employed)
06.2020 - 08.2020
Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Odyssey Community School
02.2020 - 05.2020
Fourth Grade Teacher
Central School
01.2020 - 01.2021
Student Teacher
Bethlehem Elementary School
09.2019 - 12.2019
Building Substitute
Bethlehem Elementary School
09.2018 - 06.2019
Paraprofessional
Plymouth Center School
06.2015 - 08.2016
Master of Science - Elementary Education
University of Bridgeport
Bachelor of Arts - English, Creative Writing, Psychology
Eastern Connecticut State University