Lascelia Dacres, Ph.D.
950 Siesta Drive, West Palm Beach,FL
Summary
Motivated and hard-working individual who is highly skilled in curriculum and instructional development, as well as the implementation of data-driven instruction, and is willing to continue to serve as Human Resources Specialist in the School District of Palm Beach County.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Human Resources Specialist, Leadership Development
PBCSD
03.2022 - Current
- Lead contact for Exploring Leadership Academy; assisted with establishing framework and design of program.
- Lead contact for Ed Leadership Certification Renewal for teachers.
- Assist with selection and exit interviews for Aspiring Assistant Principals Program (AAPP).
- Develop and facilitate professional learning for AAPP; 37 participants in current cohort.
- Coach and support 12 aspiring assistant principals (teachers and teacher leaders) in important skills and knowledge needed to become effective school administrators; meet one on one on regular basis throughout school year for individual coaching sessions to develop each participant's School Improvement Project.
- Assist with developing curriculum as well as plan, develop, and facilitate professional development for Assistant Principal Leadership Academy (APLA).
- Conduct professional development for district and school leaders during District Leadership Academy (DLA), AAPP, and Preparing Future Principals Program (PFPP).
- Assist with selection and exit interviews for PFPP.
- Assist with Assistant Principals Induction Program - planning of sessions and leading specific sections of presentations.
- Analyze query and statements of eligibility for teachers working on professional certification through Professional Development Certification Program.
- Collaborate with professors of Florida Atlantic University's Excellence and Equity (ExEq) Partnership Program to select potential candidates for program through scoring of application and timed writing essays, participate in monthly steering meetings to discuss ongoing partnership details, attend conferences/trainings to further enhance collaboration, and present to participants in program during leadership meetings.
- Support School District's Small Group Initiative by planning for groups and instructing students in grades 3-5, reading and science.
Assistant Principal
Washington Elementary School, PBCSD
11.2018 - 03.2022
- Supervised and evaluated teaching using the Palm Beach Model of Instruction (PBMI); based on PBMI, coached teachers using actionable feedback.
- Supported staff through instructional leadership as well as devised and conducted professional development.
- Assisted with developing and monitoring the School Improvement Plan.
- Led the Educator Support Program (ESP) for new teachers. Developed and facilitated professional learning for ESP participants.
- Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG) Trained.
- Led school based threat assessment meetings and conducted threat assessments.
- Monitored the implementation of AVID strategies schoolwide.
- Developed lesson guides for K-5 science as well as fine arts (media and art) and facilitated weekly Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) for K-5 science.
- Instructed (FY22) science lessons as well as conducted experiments with fifth grade students to prepare them for the Statewide Science Assessment (SSA); instructed (FY21) science lessons to fifth grade brick and mortar as well as distance learning students to prepare them for the SSA.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans for fifth grade science students by analyzing school's performance on District's winter diagnostic assessment and ensuring targeted instruction.
- Monitored grades Pre K-5 instruction (reading, writing, math, and science) through data analysis, participation in PLCs/common planning, and through classroom walkthrough/observations.
- During the COVID-19 Pandemic, assisted with developing and monitoring the logistics of Distance Learning; 100% of teachers created Google classroom; 100% of teachers participated in live instructional sessions; 86% of students daily accessed the portal.
- Developed master schedule to ensure that students (ELL, ESE, 504, and general mainstreamed) were properly assigned to classes; during the pandemic also planned for virtual as well as brick and mortar.
- Created testing schedule for the entire school- ACCESS, District Diagnostics, and Florida Standards Assessment.
- Ensured that school was in compliance for ESOL as ESOL Contact and Title I as Title I Contact.
- Developed duty roster schedule for staff (instructional and non-instructional).
- Assisted with the relocation of Washington to another elementary school for FY19-20 and the return to our modernized school for FY21-FY22.
- Built and maintained positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, such as parents, school volunteers, and outside agencies; led Title I Comprehensive Needs Assessment with staff, teachers, parents and community partners.
- Monitored student behavior (SwPBS) and enforced discipline policies.
- Actively participated in School Based Teams (SBT) as well as served as case liaison.
- Supported human resources operations, including hiring, training, and disciplinary action in compliance with legal guidelines and requirements.
- Partnered with Principal to administer school programs in alignment with vision and goals, providing positive, high-expectation academic environment.
Curriculum Writer and Science Instructor (Summer)
A Reading And Math Academy
06.2019 - 08.2020
- Developed scope and sequence as well as created lessons (reading, writing, math, and science) for Summer Program (grades K-5).
- Trained lead teachers and facilitated professional learning on implementation of curricula and best practices for instruction.
- Conducted weekly science experiments with students.
Single School Culture Coordinator
Orchard View Elementary, PBCSD
07.2016 - 11.2018
- Created and monitored PLC/team planning schedules; developed agendas and facilitated PLCs to plan for standards-based instruction; school grade increased from D (2016) to B (2018).
- Demonstrated Above Expectation on Competency Assessment Summary for District Administrators' Evaluations (FY17 & FY18).
- Supported implementation of CKLA instruction (grades K-3) through intentional planning of Core Actions.
- Supported, monitored, and guided implementation of standards-based instruction through use of assignments and assessments (exit tickets, writing samples, FSQs, PBPA, winter diagnostic, etc.) in grades K-5.
- Led Academic Parent Teacher Team (APTT) initiative and successfully implemented three meetings throughout span of school year in grades VPK-5.
- Assisted with data analysis in SBT and development of appropriate intervention plans.
- Assisted with creating/providing safe and respectful learning environment (SwPBS), which was well managed, supportive, and engaging.
- Developed and monitored i-Ready testing calendar and analyzed and monitored various i-Ready reports.
- Assisted with planning and administration of winter diagnostic and state testing.
- Served as administrator for 3rd grade Spring Break Camp (two consecutive years) and Summer Strong Program for grade 2 students.
- Served as lead facilitator for PLCs, superuser for i-Ready, APTT Champion, school's Point of Contact for AdvancED's visitation, member of leadership team, substitute lead of SBT as well as case liaison.
K-12 Instructional Specialist: Learning Team Facilitator, Literacy, and Science
Area 1 Administration, PBCSD
07.2012 - 06.2016
- Facilitated PLCs for Area 1 elementary, middle, and high schools (Title I and non-Title I) in literacy, math, and science.
- Facilitated and/or participated in Common Planning: literacy and science.
- Developed and facilitated Item Specifications Trainings in reading and science for state standards.
- Conducted Learning Goals and Scales Trainings for state standards in reading, math, and science.
- Conducted Unpacking of Standards Trainings for state standards in reading, math, and science.
- Guided elementary, middle, and high schools in analyzing data to make informed instructional decisions; utilized LTM protocols such as Unpacking of Standards and Data Feedback Strategy to assist schools with Tier 1, 2, and 3 instruction.
- Provided principals and teachers with strategies and resources to support continuous improvement model and monitor progress for state's assessments.
- Supported Title I schools with high ESE and ELL student populations; assisted with implementation and monitoring of highly effective instructional strategies.
- Supported Area 1 schools with implementation of district-wide elementary literacy plan.
- Supported selected Area 1 schools with alignment of science instruction and resources to assessed standards; assisted with structure of science block.
- Trained and coached instructional coaches and teachers: literacy and science.
- Provided modeling and coaching support to teachers for whole and small group instruction: science and reading.
- Taught small group differentiated instruction to assist students with mastery of assessed standards: reading (grades 3-5) and science (grade 5).
- Utilized LLI as Tier 2 intervention as well as participated in LLI Learning Walks.
- Monitored (all subjects) and taught (science and reading) in after-school tutorials.
- Collaborated with school assessment coordinator on scheduling and organizing state assessment materials for school-wide testing.
- Worked collaboratively with curriculum and assessment departments to develop standards-align resources for district-wide use: literacy and science.
- Area representative as state standards (literacy) expert at teacher/parent conference.
- Area representative at SBT meeting.
- Assisted Area 1 in achieving non DA status for all schools, 2013-2014; 100% of schools in portfolio received school letter grade from state of C or above.
- Acting administrator (Area Representative) for Area 1 school, 2013-2014.
- Facilitator of small group for Strategic Plan Community Tour, Summer 2015.
- Participated in State and Area Instructional Reviews for Differentiated Accountability and District Focus/Priority/Schools of Concern.
Learning Team Facilitator
Department of Safe Schools/Congress Middle School, PBCSD
07.2008 - 07.2012
- Assisted Congress Middle, Title I school, in earning its first three consecutive School Grade Rating of "A" from State; school grades were 528, 551, and 525.
- Facilitated Single School Culture-Academics Protocols at Learning Team Meetings: Data Feedback Strategy, Unpacking of Standards, Standards in Practice, Assessment Literacy, and Lesson Study.
- Successfully developed and facilitated on-site professional development for 24 teacher teams (Grades 6-8): Reading and Language Arts -assisted teachers in targeting and addressing reading benchmarks in preparation for state's reading assessment. Social Studies -assisted teachers in implementing reading benchmarks as well as reading strategies in preparation for state's reading assessment. Science -assisted teachers in targeting and addressing science benchmarks. Math, Elective, and Magnet -assisted teachers in targeting and addressing math benchmarks in preparation for state's math assessment.
- Trained teachers on implementation of Marzano's Lesson Segments.
- Analyzed and presented data on school's performance on state's assessments as well as District Diagnostics to administrators and teachers.
- Administered Diagnostics and state assessments to students.
- Served as member of Professional Development Team to build teacher capacity and Literacy Leadership Team to implement and monitor reading initiatives of school.
- Assisted in writing and monitoring School Improvement Plan.
- Member of Cougar University Parent Workshops: assisted in designing workshops in order to increase parental involvement at school. Communicated to parents test-taking strategies that may be used at home; provided training on Edline and reading programs offered at our school, etc.
- Co-chair of Cougar Mastery Minute Reading Program.
ELL Language Arts Teacher
Jeaga Middle School, PBCSD
06.2006 - 07.2006
- Assisted ELL students in becoming proficient in English Language Arts skills during summer program.
- Differentiated instruction using resources provided by Multicultural Department to meet needs of students.
Science Teacher
Lake Worth Middle School, PBCSD
11.2001 - 07.2008
- Taught ESE, ELL, and general mainstreamed students (grades 6-8)
- Maintained healthy learning environment
- Kept classroom environments consistent and focused on learning by establishing and enforcing clear objectives.
- Assessed submitted class assignments, determined grades and reviewed work with struggling students to boost success chance.
- Planned, prepared, and taught lessons, giving students individual support.
- Collaborated with other science teachers during lesson plan development at weekly PLCs.
- Communicated with students and parents regarding academic progress, assignments, and behavior.
- Professional Development Chair
- Team Leader for three consecutive years
- Field Trip Coordinator
- School Advisory Council Member
- Member of Awards Committee
- Sponsor of MADD Science Club
- Sponsor of Academic Games for Math, Social Studies, and Language Arts
Permanent Substitute Teacher
Lake Worth High School, PBCSD
08.2001 - 11.2001
- Taught ninth grade intensive math classes.
- Developed lesson plans.
- Developed, administered, and corrected tests and quizzes.
After-School Camp Counselor
Coral Reef Elementary, PBCSD
08.1999 - 12.1999
- Instructed participants on activities' goals, procedures, and safety considerations to promote beneficial outcomes for all campers.
- Coordinated after-school activities contributing to individual student growth and development.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - Curriculum and Instruction
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL2018
Specialist Degree - Educational Leadership
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL2007
Master of Science - Teaching English to Students of Other Languages (TESOL)
Nova Southeastern University
Palm Beach Gardens, FL2005
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL2001
Skills
- Experience with teaching and making school-wide decisions that impact ELL, ESE, 504, and general mainstreamed students
- Skilled in curriculum and instruction development in reading, math, and science
- Knowledgeable in designing and effectively utilizing data driven instruction (FCIM and MTSS)
- Supported teachers at various levels: elementary, middle, and high (Title I and non-Title I)
- Clear public speaking skills; communicate well with adults and students
- Experience with relocating school to new location and returning to modernized school
- In-depth understanding of state's standards (science); currently being trained in BEST Standards
- Expertise in thoroughly assisting schools in preparing for standardized testing
- Effective time management and listening skills
- Experience in developing and facilitating professional learning for adult learners
- Trained and coached new and experienced teachers in implementing instructional practices and in designing rigorous and relevant standards-aligned assignments/assessments
- Provide actionable feedback to schools (elementary, middle, and high) through participation in Instructional Reviews
Areas of Certification
General Science (Grades 5-9)
Biology (Grades 6-12)
ESOL Endorsed
Reading Endorsed
Educational Leadership (All Levels)
School Principalship (All Levels)
Child Care Facility Part I
Child Care Facility Part 2
Child Care Early Literacy for Children Age Birth Through Three
Child Care Staff Credential Verification
Child Care Director Credential
Certification
- AVID Training - Learning Through Writing
- AVID Summer Path to Schoolwide Training
- Observer Calibration Training for the Instructional Personnel Evaluation System
- Utilizing Best Practices from Get Better Faster to Support Teacher Growth
- Get Better Faster: Observation, Coaching, and Feedback
- Instructional Mentoring
- Coaching and Observation
- VITAL
- LSI's Building Expertise National Conference
- Preparing Future Principals' Program Cohort 1(The School District of Palm Beach County and New York Leadership Academy)
- Aspiring Leader Program
- Project Based Learning
- FLDOE Introduction to Problem Solving and Response to Intervention Certification
- FLDOE Common Core Standards Institute
- FLDOE Summer Differentiated Accountability Academy
- Florida Continuous Improvement Model (FCIM)
- Single School Culture-Academics Protocols (Data Feedback Strategy, Unpacking of the Standards, Standards in Practice, Assessment Literacy, and Lesson Study) and Learning Goals and Scales
- Online Teaching Course: Lessons and Best Practices by FLVS
- Use Smart Learning Suite to teach online through Google classroom; utilize Google Meets to conduct meetings such as PLCs, student assemblies (SwPBS), and faculty meetings.
- Experience with Zoom, Adobe Connect, Office 365, Google, and Internet Explorer
- Teachers College Reading and Writing Project: Summer Institute for Reading
- PBCSD Reading and Writing Workshop Administrative Cohort
- Homegrown Summer Literacy Institute
- Literacy Coach Trainings
- Small Group Differentiated Instruction
- Word Study, K-3 and 4-5
- Leveled Literacy Intervention
- Reading Running Record Levels 1 and 2
- I-Ready and Istation Reading
- Flexible Schedule
- SIS Training
- Standards-Based Report Card
- Educational Data Warehouse and Performance Matters/Unify
- FAIR-FS PD
- CRISS Level 1
- English Language Development Standards-WIDA (K-12)
- Universal Design for Learning: The Responsive Classroom
- Student Assessment and Writing Institute (SAWI): Reading and Science
Publication
Dacres, L.C. (2018). Middle grades (6-8) reading teachers’ beliefs regarding the
state’s academic reading standards, curriculum materials and instructional practices. [Doctoral dissertation, Florida Atlantic University]. ProQuest LLC.
Professional References
- Melinda Herrera, Director of Leadership Development, melinda.springmanherrera@palmbeachschools.org
- Dr. Janet Butts, Manager of Leadership Development, janet.d.butts@palmbeachschools.org
- Lisa Lee, Principal at Boca Raton Middle, lisa.lee@palmbeachschools.org
- Sandra Sanchez, Grant Compliance Specialist and former Principal, sandra.sanchez.2@palmbeachchools.org
Timeline
Human Resources Specialist, Leadership Development
PBCSD
03.2022 - Current
Curriculum Writer and Science Instructor (Summer)
A Reading And Math Academy
06.2019 - 08.2020
Assistant Principal
Washington Elementary School, PBCSD
11.2018 - 03.2022
Single School Culture Coordinator
Orchard View Elementary, PBCSD
07.2016 - 11.2018
K-12 Instructional Specialist: Learning Team Facilitator, Literacy, and Science
Area 1 Administration, PBCSD
07.2012 - 06.2016
Learning Team Facilitator
Department of Safe Schools/Congress Middle School, PBCSD
07.2008 - 07.2012
ELL Language Arts Teacher
Jeaga Middle School, PBCSD
06.2006 - 07.2006
Science Teacher
Lake Worth Middle School, PBCSD
11.2001 - 07.2008
Permanent Substitute Teacher
Lake Worth High School, PBCSD
08.2001 - 11.2001
After-School Camp Counselor
Coral Reef Elementary, PBCSD
08.1999 - 12.1999
Doctor of Philosophy - Curriculum and Instruction
Florida Atlantic University
Specialist Degree - Educational Leadership
Florida Atlantic University
Master of Science - Teaching English to Students of Other Languages (TESOL)
Nova Southeastern University
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Florida Atlantic University