Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Laura Graff

Safety Harbor,Florida

Summary

Upbeat [Job Title] devoted to promoting student learning and enhancing individual potential. Skillful in directing classroom environments and enhancing student behavior through positive and forward-thinking approaches. Caring relationship-builder with analytical mindset and good decision-making skills. Accomplished [Job title] successful in classroom management, student evaluations and test preparation. Proven history of improving student learning outcomes by adapting lesson plans to student needs. Dedicated to promoting academic performance and fostering social skills and character development. Passionate [Type] Teacher for [Number] years in both rural and urban settings. Proven history of creating engaged classroom environments supporting diverse educational styles. Versatile student-oriented approach consistently supporting optimum performance and advancement. High-energy [Job Title] offers knowledge and abilities to new position dedicated to helping [Type] students. Skilled in activity coordination, student assessment and record keeping. Persistent in uncovering and meeting individual student needs. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. Hardworking and passionate job seeker with strong organizational skills eager to secure entry-level [Job Title] position. Ready to help team achieve company goals. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy. To seek and maintain full-time position that offers professional challenges utilizing interpersonal skills, excellent time management and problem-solving skills.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience

Work History

Elementary Teacher- Grades 1-3

PASCO COUNTY SCHOOLS
08.2014 - 07.2022
  • Aligned instruction with county’s educational philosophy, curriculum, and standards
  • Developed differentiated ELA and math lessons and resources for diverse learners
  • Designed digital learning and in-person learning for asynchronous and synchronous teachings
  • Incorporated social/emotional, cultural responsiveness, foundational skills, and literacy across subject areas
  • Created authentic assessments utilizing backward design
  • Monitored student progress regularly utilizing appropriate data collection tools and assessments
  • Collected and used data to modify instruction and improve student learning gains by 50%-100%
  • Collaborated with administration and support teams to advance student development
  • Created, led, and facilitated professional learning opportunities
  • Appointed Grade-level Team Lead and Liaison/STEM Fair Coordinator
  • Assisted technical hitches
  • Established and maintained cooperative relations with coworkers.
  • Analyzed students abilities and coordinated lessons, cooperated with executive staff members and developed individualized learning plans to overcome student obstacles.
  • Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process.
  • Prepared materials for lessons, assignments, and assessments, and evaluated, corrected and graded student performance to identify gaps in skills or knowledge and set realistic goals.
  • Communicated student progress, academic difficulties, or behavioral concerns to parents, guardians and administration using tact and professionalism to improve student academic performance.
  • Worked one-on-one with students to determine strengths, weaknesses, and learning patterns.
  • Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
  • Provided individualized and diversified instruction to support student comprehension and assist with navigating challenges.
  • Collaborated with administrators on classroom policies, management strategies, and discipline.
  • Evaluated individual student abilities and created action plans based on current level and desired growth goals to support preparedness for transition to next grade level.
  • Developed and implemented discipline strategies to maintain classroom order.
  • Drove student learning by establishing clear classroom plans and group objectives, as well as actionable strategies to achieve each goal.
  • Directed class discussions to spark conversation about key concepts, complex problems and overarching themes.
  • Maintained student portfolios to monitor learning progress and completion of work required for promotion to next grade level.
  • Incorporated [Software] technology into lesson planning to create engaging, multi-dimensional lessons.
  • Scheduled and directed field trips and hands-on activities to foster student learning and creativity.
  • Utilized study guides and interactive study tools to increase standardized test scores.
  • Adapted lessons to differentiate instruction and meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
  • Created supportive and inclusive learning environments, fostering positive classroom atmospheres supporting student growth and learning.
  • Implemented classroom management improvements to enhance class morale and engagement.
  • Integrated technology and multimedia tools into lessons to enhance student learning.
  • Taught students subject-specific material, learning strategies, and social skills.
  • Taught lessons encompassing skill-building activities in speaking, writing, reading and listening.
  • Established and enforced rules of behavior to drive social development and maintain positive interactions.
  • Assessed student progress by administering tests and evaluating results.
  • Provided regular feedback to students on progress and assigned grades based on performance.
  • Kept classroom clean, organized, and safe for students and visitors.
  • Organized classroom supplies and decorated walls to create fun, nurturing settings, and meet learning needs.
  • Assessed student learning progress and comprehension with routine tests and standardized examinations.
  • Boosted individual perseverance and resilience by setting challenging goals and providing realistic support.
  • Promoted exploration of building blocks of learning by leading diverse, hands-on activities.
  • Retained student interest and maximized receptive learning.
  • Attended students' concerts, sporting events and performances to offer support and encourage extracurricular activities.

Account/Project Manager, Home Technology Consultant

Guardian Protection Services
05.2008 - 09.2008
  • Fostered relationships with new and existing residential communities
  • Consulted and guided clients in purchasing security, fire, audio, and video technology for new home
  • Exceeded monthly sales quota(s) by nearly 100%.
  • Addressed problems with accounting, billing, and service delivery to maintain and enhance client satisfaction.
  • Built and strengthened long-lasting client relationships based on accurate price quotes and customer-centric terms.
  • Evaluated client needs and developed tailored solutions to increase positive customer ratings.
  • Educated clients on new products or services to increase customer engagement with brand.
  • Facilitated client satisfaction and renewed customer relations to drive growth.
  • Coordinated with internal teams to facilitate prompt delivery of client projects.
  • Monitored and analyzed customer feedback to identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to increase client retention.
  • Oversaw new business development to generate sales leads, negotiate client pricing and forecast revenue.
  • Set clear sales goals to identify activities and behaviors to advance sales process and close deals.
  • Recommended brand products to customers to encourage repeat purchases and foster customer loyalty.
  • Liaised with marketing and sales teams to develop targeted campaigns.
  • Reviewed and mitigated discrepancies to increase sales, reduce costs and streamline processes.
  • Negotiated prices for products and freights to reduce cost of acquisition by achieving lower price.
  • Identified key entry points to enhance market penetration and maximize returns.
  • Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
  • Maintained open communication by presenting regular updates on project status to customers.
  • Scheduled and facilitated meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts.
  • Tracked project and team member performance closely to quickly intervene in mistakes or delays.
  • Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress and technical problems.
  • Developed and implemented project plans and budgets to ensure successful execution.
  • Analyzed project performance data to identify areas of improvement.
  • Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals.
  • Verified quality of deliverables and conformance to specifications before submitting to clients.
  • Recruited and oversaw personnel to achieve performance and quality targets.
  • Facilitated workshops to collect project requirements and user feedback.
  • Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed
  • Maintained open communication by presenting regular updates on project status to customers
  • Scheduled and facilitated meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts
  • Tracked project and team member performance closely to quickly intervene in mistakes or delays
  • Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress and technical problems
  • Developed and implemented project plans and budgets to ensure successful execution
  • Analyzed project performance data to identify areas of improvement
  • Sourced, vetted and managed vendors needed to accomplish project goals
  • Verified quality of deliverables and conformance to specifications before submitting to clients
  • Recruited and oversaw personnel to achieve performance and quality targets
  • Facilitated workshops to collect project requirements and user feedback
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment
  • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships
  • Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems
  • Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others
  • Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively

Owner/Senior Processor

Performance Processing, LLC
06.2006 - 04.2008
  • Provided complete processing services to mortgage brokerage firms
  • Attained insurance knowledge to obtain necessary documentation
  • Cultivated and maintained 20 loan file closings/month
  • Conducted all responsibilities associated with managing a small business including, but not limited to, accounting, insurance, quality assurance, account management and business development.
  • Received and reviewed incoming documents and materials.
  • Interacted regularly with peers and management to pursue continuous improvement of facility operations and promote teamwork-focused environment.
  • Entered data into computer tracking system and filed paperwork according to procedures.
  • Operated and serviced processor equipment to maintain production output.
  • Maintained accurate records to enable processor activity and performance monitoring.
  • Monitored processor performance and adjusted systems for smooth operation.
  • Implemented effective strategies for processor optimization based on insights.
  • Led routine maintenance and troubleshooting tasks for reduced downtime.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design and implement processor improvement strategies.
  • Analyzed processor data and developed insight reports for management review.
  • Assessed current systems and identified improvement areas to uplift capabilities.
  • Updated processor systems with current software and hardware upgrades for optimized performance.
  • Improved function and performance by adopting suitable processor software applications.
  • Developed new processor programs and processes to streamline operations.
  • Maintained organized work area by cleaning and removing hazards.
  • Made sure that products were produced on time and are of good quality.
  • Met production targets and tight deadlines by collaborating closely with team members.
  • Organized and prepared workstations and materials needed for operations to maximize productivity.
  • Inspected finished products for quality and adherence to customer specifications.
  • Used problem-solving and issue-resolution skills to promptly and successfully address production problems.
  • Trained new production staff members on safe and efficient production procedures and proper machine operations.
  • Inspected products and machines to maintain quality and efficiency.
  • Assembled products according to changing daily work orders and specific customer needs.
  • Adjusted machines to increase productivity for runs.
  • Examined incoming materials and compared to documentation for accuracy and quality.
  • Collaborated with other departments to optimize production workflows.
  • Performed general equipment maintenance and repair to minimize downtime.
  • Calibrated machines to maintain required productivity levels and adherence to quality standards.
  • Prepared reports and technical documentation of day-to-day production processes.
  • Investigated processing errors and malfunctions, resolving issues with minor machine repairs.
  • Tested products or subassemblies for functionality or quality and troubleshot problems with equipment, devices, or products.
  • Reviewed production schedules and streamlined processes.
  • Oversaw logistics and inventory management for storeroom.

Mortgage Processor II

Universal American Mortgage Company
01.2006 - 08.2006
  • Managed and processed 20-40 loan files/month
  • Loan process liaison for underwriters, loan officers, and customers
  • Acquired required credit reports, appraisals, title work and other necessary documentation
  • Consistently received “Excellent” ratings from customer exit surveys upon closing.
  • Set up and completed loan submission packages.
  • Created strong working relationships with advisors, assistants and support staff.
  • Processed account paperwork, transfers and money movement for new business accounts.
  • Supported other operational teams with financial transactions and account maintenance.
  • Utilized and trained associates on various financial products and software programs.
  • Processed account maintenance transactions, registered representative changes and IRA requests.
  • Interviewed clients regarding loan needs and financial histories and conveyed information regarding application processes.
  • Collaborated with Loan Officers to provide timely, accurate service for clients throughout entire mortgage process.
  • Worked with customers in person and via telephone to answer questions, process transactions, and resolve issues.
  • Communicated with originator and applicant concerning progress of loan file.
  • Handled any conditions sent from underwriting departments.
  • Analyzed borrower credit reports and income statements to verify accuracy.
  • Developed comprehensive understanding of loan processing regulations and laws to be fully compliant.
  • Reviewed financial statements and contacted institutions and customers to clarify details.
  • Prepared file for final clear-to-close by branch management.
  • Coordinated closing process with attorneys, title companies, and government clerks.
  • Processed mortgage loan applications accurately and successfully for over [Number] years.
  • Upheld complete confidentiality of all submitted information according to release guidelines.
  • Received on-going, comprehensive training on home loan products and mortgage process.
  • Maintained accurate records of loan processing activities and documents in CRM system.
  • Educated customers on loan services and regulations to confirm compliance.
  • Collected and compiled paperwork such as title abstracts, insurance paperwork, loan files and tax histories.
  • Reviewed and validated details of loan applications and closing documentation.
  • Stayed up to date on loan regulation changes, processing loan applications in compliance with current laws.
  • Set up, stored and updated customer files, department records and regulatory paperwork.
  • Prepared loan documents and explained terms to clarify loan conditions and requirements with applicants.
  • Affirmed loan document accuracy to protect lenders from potential fraud.
  • Verified credit histories, personal references and employment backgrounds for each applicant.
  • Calculated debt-to-income ratios to determine maximum loan amounts and avoid overextending applicants.
  • Consulted with outside vendors to identify and resolve loan closing issues.
  • Calculated, reviewed and corrected errors on interest, principal and closing costs.
  • Tracked loan status and updated applicant information to inform lenders of changes to applicants' financial situation.
  • Contacted customers via mail, telephone and email to relay acceptance or rejection of applications.
  • Confirmed applicants met lender requirements to repay loans by reviewing applications to determine eligibility.
  • Analyzed credit reports to assess risk and determine applicants' ability to repay loans.
  • Interviewed loan applicants to obtain personal and financial data to assist in completing applications.
  • Readied Truth-in-Lending Disclosures for loan applicants, delivering important information about loan APR and repayment terms.
  • Provided professional advice on loan applications by interviewing applicants, reviewing applications and verifying information gathered.
  • Liaised with credit bureaus, employers and other sources to check applicants' credit and personal references.
  • Communicated acceptance or rejection to applicants via mail, email, telephone or personal consultations.
  • Corroborated on-time payments and meeting of loan terms by assessing customer accounts.

Mortgage Processor I

Custom Processing, LLC
06.2004 - 12.2005
  • Collected necessary documentation required to submit residential loan applications for approval
  • Verified accuracy of documents and completed loan files
  • Discharged underwriting stipulations for appraisals, title policies, insurance policies and other documentation
  • Prepared closing documents and arranged closings between all closing departments.

Member Relations Officer

GTE Federal Credit Union
06.2001 - 02.2003
  • Assisted members with a variety of responsibilities including, but not limited to, opening and closing accounts, loan application and payments, check cashing, deposits, withdrawals, transfers, balance inquiries and issuance of ATM cards, encoded PINs
  • Resolved account disputes/discrepancies
  • Adhered to compliance regulations.
  • Applied data, insights and partner objectives in collaborative development of business plans, annual marketing plans and marketing channel test plans.
  • Maintained holistic perspective of client relationships on day-to-day operational and strategic levels.
  • Presented marketing plans, financial plans and reports to senior internal and partner stakeholders.
  • Identified and drove new marketing opportunities, partnerships, features, services and capabilities that impacted program profitability.
  • Worked knowledge of multi-channel consumer marketing strategies with emphasis on direct marketing and online or interactive campaigns.
  • Researched options and recommended services to address clients' needs.
  • Identified new opportunities and cultivated leads to consistently meet sales goals and increase business growth.
  • Educated clients on relevant policies and options and answered questions to remedy issues.
  • Balanced up to [Number] accounts simultaneously, maintaining regular contact and professional relationships with each.
  • Advocated for client needs within [Type] company to improve experience and increase customer retention.
  • Listened to clients and assisted with navigation of complex systems involved in [Type] transactions.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service to every customer by leveraging extensive knowledge of products and services and creating welcoming, positive experiences.
  • Investigated and resolved customer inquiries and complaints quickly.
  • Exhibited high energy and professionalism when dealing with clients and staff.
  • Responded to customer requests, offering excellent support and tailored recommendations to address needs.
  • Delivered prompt service to prioritize customer needs.
  • Met customer call guidelines for service levels, handle time and productivity.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of product and service changes.
  • Responded proactively and positively to rapid change.
  • Promoted superior experience by addressing customer concerns, demonstrating empathy, and resolving problems swiftly.
  • Followed up with customers about resolved issues to maintain high standards of customer service.
  • Educated customers about billing, payment processing and support policies and procedures.
  • Provided excellent customer care by responding to requests, assisting with product selection and handling ordering functions.
  • Developed highly empathetic client relationships and earned reputation for exceeding service standard goals.
  • Promptly responded to inquiries and requests from prospective customers.
  • Collaborated with staff members to enhance customer service experience and exceed team goals through effective client satisfaction rates.
  • Trained new personnel regarding company operations, policies and services.
  • Managed timely and effective replacement of damaged or missing products.
  • Sought ways to improve processes and services provided.
  • Promoted available products and services to customers during service, account management, and order calls.
  • Enhanced productivity levels by anticipating needs and delivering outstanding support.
  • Monitored cash drawers in multiple checkout stations and maintained adequate cash supply.
  • Maintained clean and orderly checkout areas by mopping floors, emptying trash cans and wiping down surfaces.
  • Cross-trained and provided backup support for organizational leadership.
  • Trained staff on operating procedures and company services.
  • Developed and updated databases to handle customer data.
  • Increased efficiency and team productivity by promoting operational best practices.
  • Calculated correct order totals, updated accounts, and maintained detailed records for inventory management.
  • Reached out to customers after completed sales to suggest additional service or product purchases.
  • Cross-trained and backed up other customer service managers.
  • Collaborated with sales team members to stay current on inventory levels, complete accurate orders, and resolve item issues.
  • Investigated and resolved accounting, service and delivery concerns.
  • Followed-through on all critical inter-departmental escalations to increase customer retention rates.
  • Recommended, selected and helped locate and obtain out-of-stock product based on customer requests.
  • Collected and returned unpurchased or returned items to correct shelf locations and arranged displays to promote sales.
  • Increased efficiency and performance by monitoring team member productivity and providing feedback.
  • Liaised with sales, marketing, and management teams to develop solutions and accomplish shared objectives.
  • Implemented and developed customer service training processes.
  • Optimized customer support by establishing collaborative service environments through targeted operational initiatives.
  • Reduced process inconsistencies and effectively trained team members on best practices and protocols.
  • Created and maintained detailed database to develop promotional sales.
  • Bolstered customer retention by creating and offering unique discount options and inspiring interest in new product lines.
  • Resolved associate, tool and service delivery issues revealed by statistical reports.
  • Devised hiring and recruitment policies for [Number]-employee company

Education

Professional Educator Certificate -

Florida Department of Education
07.2014

Master of Arts Degree - Education -

University of Phoenix
Tampa, FL
01.2012

Bachelor of Science Degree – Sociology & Interdisciplinary Social Science -

Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
05.2001

Skills

  • MS Office/365: Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, E-mail
  • Google Drive: Docs, Sheets, Slides
  • Business Management: Expensify, Zoom, Calendly
  • Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
  • Content Editing: Ensure content optimization, logical content structure and progression, fact verification
  • Copy Editing: Confirm error-free content, grammar, vocabulary, syntax
  • Content Creation: Authenticity, Formatting, image insertion, and aesthetic judgment
  • Education Platforms: SharePoint, Air-Table, Learning Networks, Great Minds, Zearn, Brain-Pop, NWEA Assessments/ MAP Growth Testing, Lexia, Canvas, Focus, Discovery Ed, WIDA
  • Self-motivated
  • Self-Directed
  • Welcome Team Collaboration
  • Persistent
  • Resilient
  • Adaptable
  • Flexible to ensure growth
  • Empathetic
  • Understanding
  • Embraced growth mindset
  • Detailed-oriented
  • Organized
  • Critical Thinker
  • Creative Problem-solver
  • Life-long Learner
  • Professional
  • Formidable Work Ethic
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Materials Sourcing
  • Differentiated Instruction
  • Play-Based Learning
  • Student Needs Assessment
  • Field Trip Coordination
  • Classroom Management
  • Activity Planning
  • Lesson Planning
  • Student Records Management
  • Behavior Modeling
  • Individualized Instruction
  • Technology Integration
  • Compliance Standards
  • Standardized Tests
  • Positive Reinforcement
  • Student Remediation
  • Afterschool Program Leadership
  • Organizational Skills
  • Field Trip Organization
  • Proficient in [Software]
  • Student Monitoring
  • Relationship Building
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Team Collaboration
  • Assigning and Grading Work
  • Safety Awareness
  • Excellent Communication
  • [Equipment] operation
  • Recordkeeping
  • Public Speaking
  • MS Office
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Good Telephone Etiquette
  • Decision-Making
  • Organization and Time Management
  • Critical Thinking
  • Troubleshooting
  • Verbal Communication
  • Data Entry
  • Project Planning
  • Active Listening
  • Analytical and Critical Thinking

Timeline

Elementary Teacher- Grades 1-3

PASCO COUNTY SCHOOLS
08.2014 - 07.2022

Account/Project Manager, Home Technology Consultant

Guardian Protection Services
05.2008 - 09.2008

Owner/Senior Processor

Performance Processing, LLC
06.2006 - 04.2008

Mortgage Processor II

Universal American Mortgage Company
01.2006 - 08.2006

Mortgage Processor I

Custom Processing, LLC
06.2004 - 12.2005

Member Relations Officer

GTE Federal Credit Union
06.2001 - 02.2003

Professional Educator Certificate -

Florida Department of Education

Master of Arts Degree - Education -

University of Phoenix

Bachelor of Science Degree – Sociology & Interdisciplinary Social Science -

Florida State University
Laura Graff