Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Larissa Zook

California

Summary

Experienced paraprofessional bringing in-depth knowledge of classroom environments and student behavior management. Skills include individualized instruction, special education support, and collaboration with teachers to plan and implement lessons. Positively impacted students' learning experience through personalized attention and consistent engagement.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

Pet Sitter

Trails End Pet Sitting/ Aimee Colfack
Lexington Park
08.2024 - Current
  • Provided daily care for pets, including feeding, walking, and grooming.
  • Established trusting relationships with pet owners through effective communication.
  • Monitored pet health and behavior to ensure safety and well-being.
  • Maintained clean and safe environments for pets during visits.
  • Cleaned up pet messes and provided fresh food and water to all assigned pets.
  • Communicated with clients regularly regarding their pet's care needs and progress.
  • Met with owners to gather pet care information and discuss pet sitting duties.
  • Provided companionship to animals by playing with them or providing belly rubs.
  • Provided emotional support when pets were feeling anxious due to separation from owners.
  • Adhered to pet care plans, medication requirements and dietary restrictions as part of quality care.
  • Delivered mail, newspapers, packages from the front porch to inside the home while caring for the pet.
  • Offered animals exercise opportunities through walks and play activities.
  • Prepared food to meet needs of animals under care with appropriate meals.
  • Monitored pet behavior for any signs of distress or illness and reported any changes to the owner immediately.
  • Monitored safety of every animal to prevent injuries from other animals or environmental hazards.
  • Followed safety protocols for handling animals in accordance with company policies and local regulations.
  • Worked collaboratively with other members of the team in order to provide excellent customer service.
  • Managed multiple pet care assignments simultaneously, demonstrating strong organizational skills.
  • Kept detailed records of pet care activities, preferences, and any notable incidents.
  • Provided daily care for pets, including feeding, watering, and administering medication as per owner instructions.
  • Implemented pet owners' specific care routines, ensuring consistency in pets' schedules.
  • Developed strong bonds with pets, gaining their trust and ensuring a positive care experience.
  • Emptied litter boxes, refilled with fresh litter and cleaned animal bedding
  • Assessed animals for injury and illness.

LAP Para Educator

St. Mary's County Public Schools
Leonardtown
08.1998 - Current
  • Communicated effectively with the LAP teacher regarding student performance and behavior.
  • Created a safe, comfortable learning environment for students by establishing positive relationships with them.
  • Implemented classroom management strategies to maintain a positive learning environment.
  • Assist the teacher in implementing the curriculum and the Behavior Management System.
  • Escort students when required.
  • Attended and supported students in General Education classes, as recommended in the IEP.
  • Other duties, as assigned by the LAP teacher and/or administrator.
  • Conveyed and utilized strong communication and interpersonal skills to establish a positive rapport with students and fellow educators.
  • Encouraged critical thinking skills among students through problem-solving activities.
  • Attended professional development workshops and seminars to stay abreast of new trends in education.
  • Encouraged positive self-esteem and mutual respect for others while instilling joy of learning and discovery.
  • Provided appropriate feedback on work, behavior, and attitude towards learning.
  • Made special accommodations to integrate students with ADD, ADHD and other learning disabilities.
  • Enforced rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.
  • Established expectations for student behavior while maintaining an atmosphere of mutual respect.
  • Monitored student behavior during breaks and lunchtime ensuring safety of all participants.
  • Built and strengthened positive relationships with students and teaching staff.
  • Assessed student progress and provided feedback on a regular basis.
  • Remained calm and patient in student interactions to support individual growth and development.
  • Conquered challenges of working with highly diverse student population to attain exceptional student achievement.

Education

Associate of Arts - General Studies

College of Southern Maryland
La Plata, MD
08-1996

Skills

  • Pet care
  • Medication administering
  • Safety protocols
  • Behavior management
  • Student assessment
  • Curriculum implementation
  • Special needs support
  • Communication skills
  • Relationship building
  • Conflict resolution
  • Team collaboration
  • Time management
  • Organizational skills
  • Active listening
  • Problem solving
  • Record keeping
  • Instructional assistance
  • Student engagement
  • Behavior improvements
  • Literacy support
  • Visual supports
  • Transition planning
  • Emotional support
  • Enrichment activities
  • Social development and integration
  • Educational assistance
  • Small group instruction
  • Assistive technology
  • Student accommodation
  • Physical assistance
  • Individualized education plan
  • Teacher support/assistance
  • Data collection
  • Educational support
  • Documentation
  • Special education support
  • Instructional support
  • Peer mediation
  • Behavior modification
  • First aid and CPR certified
  • Adaptive technology

Timeline

Pet Sitter

Trails End Pet Sitting/ Aimee Colfack
08.2024 - Current

LAP Para Educator

St. Mary's County Public Schools
08.1998 - Current

Associate of Arts - General Studies

College of Southern Maryland