Laura J. Negen
Waterloo,Iowa
Summary
Dedicated to enhancing the capacity of educators and supporting professional development, with a strong focus on addressing diverse learning needs in reading. Committed to driving continuous improvement to close achievement gaps and foster an environment where students and staff thrive. Eager to contribute expertise in educational strategies that promote inclusive learning and empower educators to excel.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Title 1 Reading Specialist
Kittrell Elementary-Waterloo Schools
Waterloo, IA
08.2025 - Current
- Developed individualized reading plans to enhance student literacy skills.
- Implemented evidence-based instructional strategies to support diverse learners.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate student progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
- Analyzed data to inform instructional decisions and improve reading outcomes school-wide.
- Collaborated with classroom teachers to design and implement literacy interventions for struggling readers.
Instructional Coach
Waterloo Community Schools
Kittrell Elementary
08.2015 - Current
- Partnered with teachers to enhance instructional practices through co-planning, modeling, and reflection aligned with school and district goals
- Facilitated ongoing professional development and PLC meetings focused on data-driven instruction, curriculum implementation, and evidence-based strategies
- Supported teachers in analyzing student data to inform instruction, monitor progress, and close achievement gaps
- Adapted coaching strategies to meet individual teacher needs, balancing support with high expectations to build confidence and instructional ownership
- Collaborated with building leaders to successfully develop and advocate for a revised School Improvement Plan, enhancing educational strategies
- Maintained open, supportive communication with families during instructional modeling and literacy/math nights, helping to bridge school-to-home learning
- Provided non-evaluative, strengths-based coaching cycles to promote reflective practice and continuous improvement
- Coached educators on the effective integration of digital tools to enhance student learning and engagement
First Grade Teacher
Irving Elementary- WCSD
Waterloo, Iowa
08.2011 - 05.2015
- Designed and delivered standards-based, cross-curricular lesson plans to meet the diverse academic needs of all learners
- Analyzed formative and summative assessment data to inform instruction and drive student-centered interventions
- Fostered strong, supportive relationships with students through personalized feedback, inclusive discussions, and consistent encouragement to promote academic growth and emotional well-being
- Collaborated with grade-level teams and specialists to implement innovative strategies aligned with district goals and improve student outcomes
- Served as a Mentor Classroom, modeling effective instructional practices for teachers, instructional coaches, and district leader
- Partnered regularly with families through ongoing communication to celebrate student progress, strengthen school-to-home connections, and build a collaborative learning environment
Education
PK-12 Principal/PK-12 Special Education Supervisor and Evaluator Continued Ed. -
Viterbo University
La Crosse, Wisconsin01.2020
Master of Education - Effective Teaching & Instructional Leadership
Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, Iowa01.2018
Bachelor of Education - undefined
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa01.2010
Skills
- Instructional Leadership
- School Improvement Planning
- Extensive technology skills
- Facilitation of professional learning
- Building Positive School Climate
- Highly Organized
- Excellent oral and written communication
- Problem-solving solutions
Certification
- K-8 -Reading Endorsement
- LETRS Trained (2025)
Timeline
Title 1 Reading Specialist
Kittrell Elementary-Waterloo Schools
08.2025 - Current
Instructional Coach
Waterloo Community Schools
08.2015 - Current
First Grade Teacher
Irving Elementary- WCSD
08.2011 - 05.2015
Master of Education - Effective Teaching & Instructional Leadership
Buena Vista University
Bachelor of Education - undefined
University of Northern Iowa
PK-12 Principal/PK-12 Special Education Supervisor and Evaluator Continued Ed. -
Viterbo University