LaDattisha McKinstry-Braxton
Wilson,NC
Summary
Innovative Middle Grades Educator bringing 4-year background instructing students. Expertise in classroom oversight, course planning and behavior management. Successful at collaborating with teachers, administrative leaders and support specialists to meet individual student needs. Committed to encouraging higher-order thinking to increase student performance.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Middle Grades Teacher
Wilson County Schools-Speight Middle School
08.2020 - Current
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
- Enhanced student understanding by incorporating real-world examples and hands-on activities.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques, ensuring all students had access to appropriate learning materials and support.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on educational best practices and trends.
- Developed strong student-teacher relationships through open communication and consistent availability for extra support.
- Organized extracurricular activities such as clubs or tutoring sessions to enrich the educational experience for students outside of class hours.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and special needs students.
- Mentored new teachers, sharing strategies for effective classroom management and lesson planning.
- Enhanced overall school culture by actively participating in staff meetings, committees, and community outreach events.
- Provided constructive feedback on assignments, motivating students to improve their academic performance.
- Increased parent involvement by organizing and leading informative parent-teacher conferences.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, implementing clear rules and consequences to maintain a positive learning environment.
- Assessed student progress with a variety of evaluation tools, including quizzes, essays, and presentations.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary units, fostering a holistic approach to learning.
- Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
- Prepared instruction materials, constructed bulletin boards, and set up work areas.
- Taught subject matter based on information compiled from textbooks, online sites, and other educational materials.
- Utilized multimedia strategies and technology to convey information in fresh and interesting ways.
- Used tests, quizzes, and other assignments to gauge students' learning and determine understanding of course materials.
- Administered assessments and standardized tests to evaluate student progress.
- Provided one-on-one attention to students, while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
- Identified signs of emotional or developmental problems in students.
- Kept classroom environments consistent and focused on learning by establishing and enforcing clear objectives.
- Kept classroom organized, clean and safe for students and visitors.
- Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.
- Supported student skill development in alignment with personal and academic goals.
- Assessed submitted class assignments, determined grades, and reviewed work with struggling students to boost success chance.
- Worked with administrators on behavioral issues to support needs of students.
- Scheduled appointments with parents to discuss student progress and classroom behavior.
- Cultivated relationships with parents for complete support network.
- Established positive rapport with all students and parents through home calls, emails, and Parent Teacher Club.
- Communicated objectives for all lessons, units and projects to students and parents.
- Sat in on classes of fellow teaching professionals to learn innovative methods for dispensing information to students.
- Used PowerSchool to upload student grades and absence data into district computer systems.
- Increased parent satisfaction through well-organized IEP meetings and family conferences focused on improving parent-child bonding skills.
- Collaborated with specialists to meet needs of AIG, ELL, and EC students requiring extra support.
- Implemented differentiated instruction to meet needs of diverse learners.
- Integrated Smartboard and other instructional technologies into classroom.
- Administered and interpreted assessment results to determine learners' challenges.
- Utilized group and hands-on learning experiences for proficient teacher evaluation score.
- Communicated with parents and guardians regarding student progress and behavioral issues.
- Devised and implemented classroom management strategies, maintaining safe and pleasant learning environment.
- Assessed student comprehension through regular quizzes, tests, and assignments.
Lead Teacher, Three-Year-Olds Classroom
Harps Mills Creative School-Raleigh
04.2019 - 03.2020
- Encouraged independent problem-solving skills through inquiry-based learning opportunities.
- Established clear expectations for behavior, leading to increased focus during instructional time.
- Utilized differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse student needs and learning styles.
- Implemented effective classroom management strategies, maintaining a well-disciplined and focused learning atmosphere.
- Developed social-emotional skills in students by modeling empathy, self-regulation, and communication techniques in the classroom setting.
- Supported language development in young learners through consistent exposure to rich vocabulary in context-specific situations.
- Organized successful parent-teacher conferences to discuss individual student progress and set goals for future growth.
- Cultivated a love for reading among students by incorporating age-appropriate literature into the curriculum.
- Championed a positive classroom culture by celebrating student achievements and fostering mutual respect among peers.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in early childhood education, translating new knowledge into practical classroom applications.
- Promoted early literacy skills by integrating phonics-based activities into daily routines.
- Designed engaging lesson plans tailored to the unique interests of three-year-olds, promoting curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
- Developed strong relationships with students and parents, fostering a supportive classroom environment.
- Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
- Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
- Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
- Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
- Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
- Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
- Supervised student teachers to provide objective feedback.
- Monitored students' academic, social, and emotional progress and recorded in individual files.
- Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
- Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
- Assisted and supervised 10-15 children through entire school day.
- Educated students in foundational concepts such as shapes, numbers, and letters.
- Maintained well-controlled classrooms by clearly outlining standards and reinforcing positive behaviors.
- Addressed behavioral and learning issues with parents and daycare management.
- Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
- Collaborated with teachers, parents and administrators to facilitate positive outcomes for students.
- Planned and executed activities to stimulate physical, social and intellectual growth.
- Created safe and nurturing learning environment for preschoolers.
- Modeled positive behavior and communication skills for students.
- Incorporated music, art and literature into curriculum.
- Protected children in-class, at recess and off-site with observational skills and positive reinforcement for good behavior.
- Utilized creative teaching strategies to engage students in classroom.
- Encouraged use of technology to support student learning.
- Organized activities to teach preschool children foundational learning skills such as letters and numbers.
- Supported students in developing self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Established positive relationships with students and families.
- Monitored classroom to verify safe and secure environment.
- Organized and supervised large and small group activities.
- Guided students to develop social, emotional and physical skills.
- Developed innovative activities to engage young children in learning process.
- Helped new preschool children get used to classes by giving one-on-one support.
- Developed and implemented behavior management plans.
- Assessed student progress and provided feedback on educational development.
- Increased student satisfaction by frequently communicating with students about needs and adapting lessons to interests and classroom progress.
Substitute Teacher, K-12
DODEA Schools
01.2017 - 02.2019
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, implementing clear expectations and consistent consequences for all students.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Took over class for regular classroom teacher, managing assignments, student needs, and recordkeeping.
- Supervised lunchroom and recess activities.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.
- Kept accurate and current attendance records and assignment sheets to maintain file compliance.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
- Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Acted as a liaison between home and school communities, facilitating open lines of communication to address concerns or celebrate successes related to student progress.
- Organized and cleaned teaching areas after daily use to maintain high standards for returning teachers or other substitutes.
- Provided instruction for students in core subject areas.
- Assigned, explained and graded homework.
- Followed lesson plans designed by absent teachers.
- Enforced school and class rules to maintain order in classroom.
- Implemented classroom management techniques to maintain positive learning environment.
- Attended professional meetings, educational conferences or teacher training workshops to improve professional competence.
Substitute Teacher, K-12
Kelly Educational Services
01.2015 - 03.2016
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, implementing clear expectations and consistent consequences for all students.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Took over class for regular classroom teacher, managing assignments, student needs, and recordkeeping.
- Supervised lunchroom and recess activities.
- Kept accurate and current attendance records and assignment sheets to maintain file compliance.
- Provided instruction for students in core subject areas.
- Assigned, explained and graded homework.
- Monitored student behavior and administered discipline as needed.
- Enforced school and class rules to maintain order in classroom.
- Followed lesson plans designed by absent teachers.
Customer Service Cashier
Check Into Cash
08.2015 - 01.2016
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, promoting a welcoming environment for customers.
- Handled high-pressure situations calmly, maintaining composure during busy periods or difficult interactions.
- Actively listened to customers, handled concerns quickly and escalated major issues to supervisor.
- Processed customer orders and accurately handled payment transactions.
- Resolved customer complaints with professionalism and empathy, resulting in increased customer loyalty.
- Counted money in drawers at beginning and end of each shift.
- Promoted a positive shopping experience by greeting customers warmly upon entry and providing assistance as needed.
- Developed and managed relationships with customers to increase customer loyalty.
- Identified and resolved discrepancies and errors in customer accounts.
- Reconciled cash drawer at start and end of each shift, accounting for errors, and resolving discrepancies.
- Maintained current knowledge of store promotions and highlighted sales to customers.
- Processed refunds and exchanges in accordance with company policy.
- Learned duties for various positions and provided backup at key times.
- Handled cash with high accuracy and took care to check bills for fraud.
- Operated cash register to record transactions accurately and efficiently.
- Performed cash, card and check transactions to complete customer purchases.
- Ensured timely resolution of any discrepancies encountered during daily financial audits.
- Adhered strictly to company guidelines regarding loss prevention measures while performing cashier duties.
- Participated actively in team meetings to discuss strategies for improving overall performance within the department.
Key Holder Supervisor
Know Style
11.2013 - 04.2014
- Completed store opening and closing procedures.
- Counted out cash drawers and balanced totals.
- Updated store displays frequently to maintain freshness in presentation while highlighting key products or trends effectively.
- Improved customer service by projecting friendly and knowledgeable attitude.
- Handled escalated customer issues calmly and professionally while working towards mutually beneficial resolutions in alignment with company values.
- Managed daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and staff scheduling.
- Received and counted money.
- Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure consistent performance across the team.
- Processed cash, credit, debit, and check payments.
- Accepted and processed customer returns.
- Swept and mopped floor, wiped windows and fixtures after closing to maintain organized and tidy store.
- Assisted with team responsibilities by cleaning, managing cash registers, and product merchandising.
- Inspected stocks to identify shortages, replenish supply and maintain consistent inventory.
- Kept close eye on department employees and customers to assess theft risks and maintain loss prevention goals.
- Effectively allocated tasks during high-traffic times to keep operations running smoothly and employees focused.
Retail Sales Associate Worker
Know Style
09.2012 - 04.2014
- Maintained a visually appealing and organized sales floor, contributing to a positive shopping environment for customers.
- Handled cash transactions accurately, ensuring proper handling of currency and credit card payments at the point of sale.
- Streamlined inventory management processes by accurately tracking stock levels and promptly restocking merchandise as needed.
- Greeted customers upon entry, establishing rapport from the onset of their shopping experience while making them feel welcome in the store environment.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing concerns promptly and professionally while maintaining a friendly demeanor.
- Resolved customer issues with tactful problem-solving skills, resulting in increased satisfaction rates.
- Enhanced team productivity by collaborating with coworkers to achieve daily sales targets and complete tasks efficiently.
- Developed strong product knowledge, enabling efficient assistance in customer inquiries and decision-making processes.
- Collaborated with team members in achieving storewide goals, fostering a positive work environment centered on teamwork and mutual success.
- Conducted regular inventory counts for accurate record-keeping and effective merchandise replenishment planning.
- Greeted customers and helped with product questions, selections, and purchases.
- Organized store merchandise racks and displays to promote and maintain visually appealing environments.
- Stocked merchandise, clearly labeling items, and arranging according to size or color.
- Maintained clean sales floor and straightened and faced merchandise.
- Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
- Checked pricing, scanned items, applied discounts, and printed receipts to ring up customers.
- Answered questions about store policies and addressed customer concerns.
- Monitored sales floor and merchandise displays for presentable condition, taking corrective action such as restocking or reorganizing products.
- Developed professional relationships with customers to increase loyalty, retention and rapport.
- Trained and supervised new employees to use selling strategies and apply best practices.
- Balanced and organized cash register by handling cash, counting change, and storing coupons.
- Listened to customer needs and desires to identify and recommend optimal products.
- Conducted product demonstrations to highlight features and redirect objections to positive aspects.
Education
High School Diploma -
Central High School
Tuscaloosa, ALMaster of Arts - Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA05.2024
Bachelor of Arts - History
University of University Maryland College
Adelphi, MD05.2020
Associate of Science - Social Sciences
Lawson State Community College
Birmingham, AL06.2014
Skills
- Problem-Solving
- Self Motivation
- Relationship Building
- Instructional Strategies
- English Language Arts Instruction
- Social Studies Instruction
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- IEP familiarity
- Student Support
- Standardized Testing
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Multitasking Abilities
- Effective Written Communication
- Middle grades concept
Accomplishments
- Facilitated one-on-one academic assistance for at-risk students through lunch tutorial sessions, after school tutorial sessions.
- Commended for exemplary teaching and service to students.
- Collaborated with team of 10 in the development of district ELA/SS Curriculum Framework and Pacing Guide.
- Head Volleyball Coach 2022-2024
- Voted as 2024-25 Teacher of the Year
- Spearheaded the Multicultural Committee 2021-2023
- Spearheaded extra-curricular group focused on female empowerment.
Additional Information
In addition to my teaching experience, I have demonstrated strong leadership and problem-solving skills in various capacities. As a teacher leader, I took initiative in developing school-wide interventions, remediation strategies, and enrichment lessons to address diverse student needs. During unforeseen circumstances, such as when a colleague left abruptly, I stepped in to seamlessly manage a 6th-grade ELA classroom and crafted effective lesson plans to maintain continuity in instruction. I have also led grade-level Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), fostering collaboration and implementing best practices to enhance student outcomes. Moreover, I completed a formal teacher program through NC Teachers of Tomorrow and achieved a score of 51 on the EDTPA assessment, certifying me as highly qualified. These experiences highlight my ability to adapt quickly to challenges, solve problems proactively, and drive positive outcomes in educational settings. I am dedicated to leveraging these skills and experiences to excel in a role as a Student Support Advisor contributing effectively to student success and overall academic achievement.
Timeline
Middle Grades Teacher
Wilson County Schools-Speight Middle School
08.2020 - Current
Lead Teacher, Three-Year-Olds Classroom
Harps Mills Creative School-Raleigh
04.2019 - 03.2020
Substitute Teacher, K-12
DODEA Schools
01.2017 - 02.2019
Customer Service Cashier
Check Into Cash
08.2015 - 01.2016
Substitute Teacher, K-12
Kelly Educational Services
01.2015 - 03.2016
Key Holder Supervisor
Know Style
11.2013 - 04.2014
Retail Sales Associate Worker
Know Style
09.2012 - 04.2014
High School Diploma -
Central High School
Master of Arts - Education
Liberty University
Bachelor of Arts - History
University of University Maryland College
Associate of Science - Social Sciences
Lawson State Community College
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