Lauren Soto
Gilbert,AZ
Summary
Focused and dedicated elementary school educator with 20 years of experience. Passionate about educating children using various activities, organizational tools and learning styles. Expert in developing lesson plans, creating custom class materials, assigning classwork and grading tests. Excellent communication and organizational skills. Handle day to day tasks with dedication and efficiency. Extremely passionate about teaching and being in the classroom with children.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
5th Grade Teacher
Legacy Traditional Schools
Gilbert, AZ
06.2017 - Current
- Participated actively in professional development opportunities to stay current on educational trends and best practices in teaching 5th grade students.
- Assessed student progress regularly using formative and summative assessments, modifying instruction as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
- Developed strong rapport with students, fostering positive and supportive learning environments.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lessons, connecting subject matter across various topics.
- Incorporated differentiated instruction techniques to meet diverse needs of all learners within classrooms.
- Cultivated critical thinking skills among students by challenging them with complex problem-solving tasks and thought-provoking discussions.
- Improved classroom management by implementing positive reinforcement strategies and setting clear expectations for behavior.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
- Taught students subject-specific material, learning strategies, and social skills.
- Mentored new teachers on best practices for effective instruction and classroom management techniques.
- Encouraged parental involvement in student learning through regular communication and parent-teacher conferences.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Organized extracurricular activities to enhance overall school experience for students, such as clubs or field trips related to course topics.
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
- Created lesson plans to correlate with state curriculum standards and devised educational programs to meet educational objectives.
- Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
- Maintained knowledge of school curricula, standards and policies to correctly prepare students for higher grade levels.
- 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.
- Met with parents to review Individualized Education Plans for at-risk students.
- Integrated technology and multimedia tools into lessons to enhance student learning.
- Kept classroom clean, organized, and safe for students and visitors.
- Attended students' concerts, sporting events and performances to offer support and encourage extracurricular activities.
- Collaborated with administrators on classroom policies, management strategies, and discipline.
- Grade level team lead for last 5 of 7 years.
5th Grade Teacher
Gilbert Public Schools
Gilbert, AZ
08.2004 - 05.2017
- Instruct students individually and in groups, using various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
- Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, projects and communicate those objectives to students.
- Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
- Grade level chair for 11 of 13 years employed.
- Testing coordinator for 3 years.
- Lead on the beautification committee for the school.
- Participated in school leadership committee for 11 years.
- Planned and completed school spelling bee for 12 years.
- Leader In Me certified
- Recipient of award for outstanding contributions to special education students 2007/2008.
Restaurant Manager
The Landmark Restaurant
Mesa, AZ
01.1991 - 07.2004
- Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
- Carefully interviewed, selected, trained, and supervised staff.
- Met, greeted, and encouraged feedback from customers and used feedback to implement positive changes within restaurant.
- Reconciled cash and credit card transactions to maintain accurate records.
- Correctly calculated inventory and ordered appropriate supplies.
- Tracked daily sales transactions and invoices for accurate and updated financial reporting.
- Optimized labor costs by closely monitoring schedules, adjusting staffing levels according to business needs, and employing cross-training strategies.
- Effectively managed payroll and timekeeping, and paperwork for new hires and terminations.
- Enhanced guest experience by regularly reviewing feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
- Ensured compliance with local health department regulations through regular staff training sessions and facility inspections.
- Reduced staff turnover rate with effective leadership, open communication, and employee development opportunities.
- Increased restaurant revenue by optimizing table turnover rates and enhancing menu offerings.
Education
Master of Arts - Elementary Education
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ05.2007
No Degree - Elementary Education
INCITE - Initial Teacher Certification Program
Tempe, AZ05.2004
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ12.1998
Skills
- Student Engagement
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- Collaborative learning
- Leader
- Organized
- Team player
- Motivated
- Classroom Management
Timeline
5th Grade Teacher
Legacy Traditional Schools
06.2017 - Current
5th Grade Teacher
Gilbert Public Schools
08.2004 - 05.2017
Restaurant Manager
The Landmark Restaurant
01.1991 - 07.2004
Master of Arts - Elementary Education
Northern Arizona University
No Degree - Elementary Education
INCITE - Initial Teacher Certification Program
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
Arizona State University