Dynamic Kindergarten Teacher with expertise in explicit, systematic instruction and strong classroom management skills. Committed to fostering creativity and collaboration in a safe learning environment.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Kindergarten Teacher
Des Moines Public Schools
Des Moines, IA
10.2013 - 06.2025
Instructed students in standardized subjects as well as general learning strategies and skills for social development and character.
Established and reinforced rules for behavior policies and procedures to maintain order among students.
Utilized appropriate teaching methods to motivate students in academic tasks.
Implemented focused lessons for literacy readiness highlighting phonics, language comprehension, and writing abilities.
Provided a safe learning environment where children could explore their creativity.
Established clear expectations for classroom behavior and routines.
Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting student collaboration and respect.
Implemented age-appropriate teaching strategies to enhance student understanding.
Organized and maintained classroom materials and educational resources effectively.
Assessed student progress through regular evaluations and feedback sessions.
Collaborated with parents to support children's educational and emotional needs.
Led classroom activities that encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Participated in professional development workshops to improve teaching practices and techniques.
Created and maintained safe learning environment for students.
Planned and implemented engaging lessons to meet the individual needs of each student.
Developed positive relationships with students, families, staff members, and outside agencies.
Assessed each child's developmental needs on continuous basis.
Fostered an atmosphere of respect through positive reinforcement techniques.
Collaborated with colleagues on various projects related to curriculum development and assessment strategies.
Organized activities that promoted physical, mental and social development.
Prepared students for state required achievement assessments.
Implemented behavior modeling and positive reinforcement into daily routines.
Provided emotional support for students who were struggling socially or academically.
Formed deep relationships with parents and students by engaging groups through conferences, emails, texts, and phone calls.
Read stories to children and taught painting, drawing, and crafts.
Explored foundational learning concepts with students through hands-on activities, videos, and class discussions.
Improved student engagement by implementing student-centered classroom management techniques to foster academic curiosity.
Provided positive feedback with emphasis on learning from mistakes to establish solid foundation for progress.
Child Care Consultant
Child Care Resource & Referral
Des Moines, IA
08.2012 - 08.2013
Developed individualized childcare plans based on children's developmental needs.
Advised childcare facilities on best practices for child safety and hygiene.
Implemented training programs for staff on child development and care techniques.
Researched current trends in childcare to provide informed recommendations.
Coordinated community resources to support families in accessing childcare services.
Participated in professional development opportunities related to early childhood education best practices.
Organized parent education seminars focused on topics such as positive discipline techniques and nutrition.
Evaluated existing childcare facilities to ensure compliance with safety regulations and professional standards of care.
Compiled statistical data related to the performance of various childcare programs and presented findings in comprehensive reports.
Conducted research on childcare programs to identify best practices and make recommendations for improvement.
Provided technical assistance to start-up daycares helping them develop effective business plans.
Drafted grant proposals seeking additional funding for childcare centers from private foundations or government agencies.
Developed and implemented child-care policies, procedures, and standards of care in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Visited homes providing family daycare services to assess environmental conditions and observe interactions between caregivers and children.
Attended conferences and workshops related to early childhood development as well as current trends in the field.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls
12-2011
Skills
Extensive knowledge in explicit, systematic instruction for foundational skills in reading and math
Training in Orton-Gillingham, Schools of Rigor and Arts Integrated Literacy
Strong classroom management skills, creating routines and procedures for a smoothly running kindergarten classroom
Training in Responsive Classroom, BeGlad (multi-lingual learners), and experience using PBIS
Experience working in a successful and egaging PLC
Served as PLC Leader for four years
Experience in helping preschool programs to implement Creative Curriculum and creating appropriate early childhood learning environments
Middle School Counselor – Goodrell Middle School at Des Moines Public SchoolsMiddle School Counselor – Goodrell Middle School at Des Moines Public Schools
Building Substitute Teacher at Lovejoy Elementary/ Des Moines Public SchoolsBuilding Substitute Teacher at Lovejoy Elementary/ Des Moines Public Schools
Student Support Interventions at Des Moines Public Schools-Perkins ElementaryStudent Support Interventions at Des Moines Public Schools-Perkins Elementary