LEIA BENDER
Olympia,WA
Summary
Enthusiastic Pre-K teacher with background in early childhood education. Have facilitated learning through creative lesson plans and child-centered educational methods that foster social, emotional, and cognitive development. Possess strong communication skills and have consistently built strong relationships with parents to support student success. Past experiences demonstrate impact on children's readiness for elementary school through effective teaching strategies.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
FRK- Paraeducator
North Thurston Public Schools
Lacey, WA
11.2023 - Current
- Supported classroom teacher in managing the Future Ready Kindergarten Classroom.
- Conducted Heggerty/ELA instructional activities.
- Monitored children during recess periods.
- Facilitated student interaction and activities in centers.
- Assisted in de-escalating students during social-emotional struggles.
- Handled additional responsibilities assigned by classroom teacher.
Pre-K/K Teacher
Tattnall County Board of Education/STES
Glennville, GA
08.2016 - 05.2025
- Developed lesson plans in compliance with DECAL guidelines for a class of 22 Pre-K children.
- Maintained current knowledge of DECAL and Bright from the Start protocols for GA Pre-K classrooms.
- Continuously assessed and collected observational data on students to inform and guide planning and instruction.
- Facilitated regular communication channels with stakeholders to support a positive learning environment.
1st Grade Teacher
Osceola County School District
Kissimmee, FL
10.2009 - 06.2013
- Developed lessons aligned with district curriculum catering to diverse student abilities.
- Served as Grade Chair, PLC Leader, Mentor Teacher, and Supervising Teacher for Johnson University.
- Leveraged various technologies to boost student engagement.
- Monitored emerging trends in education through continuous research.
- Served as the Literacy Team Leader.
Education
Master of Science - Reading
Nova Southeastern University
Davie, FL12-2011
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Johnson University
Kissimmee, FL05-2003
Skills
- Classroom management
- Instructional support
- Data collection
- Lesson planning
- Technology integration
- Student assessment
- Critical thinking
- Visual supports
- Calm and patient demeanor
Certification
- Washington Residency Teacher Certification: Early Childhood, Elementary Education, English Language Learner, Reading, MIddle Level-Humanities
- Georgia Educator Certificate (Exp. 2023/Applied 3/2025): Elem Ed (P-5); ESOL; Reading; MG ELA
Timeline
FRK- Paraeducator
North Thurston Public Schools
11.2023 - Current
Pre-K/K Teacher
Tattnall County Board of Education/STES
08.2016 - 05.2025
1st Grade Teacher
Osceola County School District
10.2009 - 06.2013
Master of Science - Reading
Nova Southeastern University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Johnson University
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