Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Laura Smallwood

Laura Smallwood

INDIANAPOLIS,IN

Summary

Upbeat First Grade Teacher devoted to promoting student learning and enhancing individual potential. Skillful in directing classroom environments and enhancing student behavior through positive and Christian based approaches. Caring relationship-builder with analytical mindset and good decision-making skills.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Elementary School Teacher

Emmaus Lutheran School
01.2023 - Current
  • Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
  • Designed and presented lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using variety of teaching techniques to appeal to various learning styles within assigned grade level.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Communicated effectively with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication regarding student progress and addressing concerns as needed.
  • Improved student comprehension by utilizing differentiated instruction techniques customized for diverse learning needs.
  • Created lesson plans to correlate with state curriculum standards and devised educational programs to meet educational objectives.
  • Pursued professional development during summer months to maintain certification and extend skills.

Life Claims Specialist

Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance
10.2006 - 12.2022
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify fraudulent claims, protecting company resources and maintaining ethical standards.
  • Developed expertise in specialized product lines, becoming a go-to resource for colleagues seeking guidance on complex cases.
  • Expedited claim resolutions for clients by effectively managing high volume of cases simultaneously.
  • Participated in continuous improvement initiatives, identifying areas of potential enhancement within department processes and systems.
  • Handled escalated customer complaints professionally, resolving issues promptly while maintaining positive client relationships.
  • Conducted regular audits of closed claims files, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to company standards.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing empathetic support and accurate information during claims process.
  • Assisted in the development of training materials, enhancing new employee onboarding and productivity.
  • Utilized advanced analytical skills to determine appropriate benefit payments according to policy provisions.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Western Governors University, Salt Lake City, UT
10.2025

Skills

  • Expectation Management
  • Collaborative Teamwork
  • Student Needs Assessments
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Individualized Learning Plans
  • Oral communication
  • Settlement Negotiations
  • Progress Reporting

Timeline

Elementary School Teacher - Emmaus Lutheran School
01.2023 - Current
Life Claims Specialist - Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance
10.2006 - 12.2022
Western Governors University - Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
Laura Smallwood