Lacey Cherniss
Norwalk,IA
Summary
Educator and systems-thinker with over 14 years of experience designing, implementing, monitoring, and refining solutions for diverse needs. A collaborator who cultivates rapport with various stakeholders to optimize goals and resolve problems.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
School Counselor
Indianola Middle School
Indianola, Iowa
08.2015 - Current
- Led Professional Development for Middle School staff in the following initiatives: Panorama Student Success software implementation, Career Information System (Xello) training and implementation, Second Step Advisory Curriculum training, MVP Leadership program training and implementation, and District Career and Academic Planning training.
- Lead implementation of our CIS (career information system) in grades 6-8, in collaboration with the high school lead, so that all students, staff, and families are able to maximize career and college readiness software.
- Increased awareness of post-secondary options by organizing college and career readiness workshops and events.
- Served as the lead for Indianola Community School District Career Guidance Plan
- Developed and conducted workshops and seminars to educate students, faculty and parents on relevant topics in field.
- Collaborated with teachers and administrators to address the social, emotional, and academic needs of all students.
- Serve in district leadership roles including: District Mental Health Team, District Leadership Team (DLT), Administrative Multi-Tiered System of Support Team (MTSS), Self-Assessment of Multi-Tiered System of Support Team (SAMI), Intervention team, Attendance Team, Wellness Committee, Insurance Committee and Social Committee
School Counselor
Pleasantville Middle School
Pleasantville, Iowa
08.2013 - 08.2015
- Assisted students in developing academic plans by reviewing strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Continuously progress monitored goals.
- Developed and delivered curriculum for three middle school courses.
- Developed criteria to identify students at-risk for dropping out of high school, and develop Personal Education Plans for all students identified as at-risk.
- Implemented data-driven strategies to identify areas of need within the school population, leading to targeted interventions and support services.
- Frequently collaborated with faculty through regular consultation on classroom management strategies, behavioral interventions, or other student supports.
Training Specialist
Iowa College Aid
Des Moines, Iowa
08.2011 - 08.2013
- Create, conduct and deliver statewide education programs on college and career planning, financial literacy, and college access
- Design and implement Career Information System software (I Have a Plan Iowa) regional and professional development trainings for high school counselors and educators in three AEA districts
- Consult with educators on 8-12 career planning legal requirements and completion of the four-year plan
- Identify, plan, develop and implement outreach and training activities that promote access and choice of postsecondary education opportunities in Iowa
- Collaborate with organizations such as Gear Up and Trio programs to promote a college-going culture in Iowa.
- Presented at various conferences in Iowa to promote K-12 career development
- Collaborate with stakeholders such as Area Education Association (AEA) partners, postsecondary personnel, and non-profit organizations in developing career and college readiness programming and training
Simpson College Upward Bound
Academic Advisor
Simpson College Indianola, Iowa
08.2010 - 08.2011
- Assisted students in identifying career goals and aligning them with appropriate academic programs.
- Provided ongoing support for students experiencing academic difficulties, resulting in improved performance.
- Organized workshops and seminars to further enhance student skills and knowledge in relevant areas.
- Educated students on college admissions process and scholarship requirements.
Liability Claims Adjuster
Nationwide Insurance
Des Moines, IA
01.2009 - 08.2010
- Investigated liability claims through insured and claimant interviews, and analyze evidence to determine fault in automobile claims.
- Negotiated settlements with claimants and their Insurance provider with high customer service reviews.
- Collaborated with legal teams for successful case resolutions to settle before arbitration.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Simpson College
Indianola, IowaMaster of Science - Counselor Education
Drake University
Des Moines, IASkills
Training Delivery Methods
- Assessments experience
- Curriculum Development and Implementation
- Collaboration
- Systems Analysis
Leadership
- Iowa School Counselor Association- Vice President of Middle School Counseling (April 2023- Present)
- Association of Talent Development (ATD)- Education Committee Member (July 2022- August 2023)
- Please Pass the Love - Marketing Committee Member (May 2021-August 2023)
- Warren County Child Abuse Prevention Council Board Member- (August 2014- August 2016)
Timeline
School Counselor
Indianola Middle School
08.2015 - Current
School Counselor
Pleasantville Middle School
08.2013 - 08.2015
Training Specialist
Iowa College Aid
08.2011 - 08.2013
Simpson College Upward Bound
Academic Advisor
08.2010 - 08.2011
Liability Claims Adjuster
Nationwide Insurance
01.2009 - 08.2010
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
Simpson College
Master of Science - Counselor Education
Drake University