Summary
Dedicated special education professional experienced in designing and implementing individualized education plans, while helping students of all abilities reach educational goals. Proven ability to create a positive and encouraging learning environment to value individual differences. Committed to helping special education students overcome challenges and build self-esteem.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
New Jersey Certification
1
1
Florida Certification
Work History
5th Grade STEM Teacher
New River Elementary School, Pasco County Schools
Wesley Chapel, FL
07.2025 - Current
- Developed engaging STEM curricula that fostered critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.
- Implemented hands-on experiments to enhance student understanding of scientific concepts and principles.
- Integrated technology tools to support interactive learning and improve student engagement in STEM subjects
- Evaluated student progress through assessments, adapting instructional approaches to meet diverse learning needs.
- Integrated real-world applications into lessons, enhancing relevance and increasing student interest.
- Continually refined instructional practices through professional development opportunities, staying informed about current trends in STEM education.
- Developed strong relationships with students by fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
- Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas for improvement and tailor lesson plans accordingly.
ESE Support Facilitator
New River Elementary School, Pasco County Schools
Wesley Chapel, FL
07.2024 - 06.2025
- Facilitated individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Collaborated with educators to implement effective support strategies.
- Developed instructional materials tailored to student learning styles.
- Monitored progress and adjusted interventions based on student performance.
- Assisted in the transition process between grade levels or schools, ensuring continuity of support for ESE students throughout their educational journey.
- Served as a resource for general education teachers, providing guidance on best practices for accommodating diverse learning needs within the classroom.
- Participated in IEP meetings, contributing valuable insights on student progress and advocating for appropriate accommodations and modifications.
Special Education Math Teacher~ Self-Contained
Howard M. Phifer Middle School
Pennsauken, NJ
09.2018 - Current
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
- Streamlined classroom processes by integrating technology tools such as interactive whiteboards and online programs for students with disabilities.
- Delivered math instruction using a multisensory approach, visual aides and real-life examples to enhance better understanding.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
Special Education Math 5th-6th Self-Contained
Pennsauken Intermediate School
Pennsauken, NJ
09.2002 - 06.2018
- Maintained a positive and supportive learning environment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Provide additional support and instruction to students who struggle with math concepts.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Create individualized learning plans based on students' needs and abilities.
Spec Education Behavior Disabilities 7-8th Grade
Howard M. Phifer Middle School
Pennsauken, NJ
09.1998 - 06.2002
- Developed 20+ unique weekly lesson plans.
- Studied individualized lesson plans to accommodate common learning and mental differences.
- Planned and executed on lesson plans, including collecting necessary resources to complete a given lesson.
- Maintained a structured classroom that incorporated positive reinforcement.
Education
Master of Education - Special Education
05.1997
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
05.1991
Skills
- Empathy
- Patience
- Flexibility
- Differentiation
- Collaboration
- Behavior Management
- Advocacy
- Student Assessment
- Creativity
- Diligence
- Detailed
Certification
State of New Jersey ~ Teacher of the Handicapped, K-12
State of Florida ~ Exceptional Student Education, K-12
Prior work experiences
My prior work experience in the mental health field encompasses a diverse range of roles, each contributing to my understanding and expertise in supporting individuals facing various challenges. As a crisis worker, I provided immediate assistance and intervention to individuals with acute distress. I used crisis intervention techniques to de-escalate situations and connect them with appropriate resources. In the partial day program therapy setting, I facilitated therapeutic activities and group sessions geared at enhancing coping skills and emotion regulation.
Additionally, my experience in family-based therapy involved collaborating with a licensed family therapist and families to address the dynamics within the family in order to develop healthy communication strategies. Finally, as a TSS (therapeutic staff support), I provided one-on-one assistance to clients in the school setting, offering support and guidance to help them with daily challenges and achieve their therapeutic goals. These varied roles helped me to promote mental wellness in the individuals and families I served.
Timeline
5th Grade STEM Teacher - New River Elementary School, Pasco County Schools
07.2025 - Current
ESE Support Facilitator - New River Elementary School, Pasco County Schools
07.2024 - 06.2025
Special Education Math Teacher~ Self-Contained - Howard M. Phifer Middle School
09.2018 - Current
Special Education Math 5th-6th Self-Contained - Pennsauken Intermediate School
09.2002 - 06.2018
Spec Education Behavior Disabilities 7-8th Grade - Howard M. Phifer Middle School
09.1998 - 06.2002
Arcadia University - Master of Education, Special Education
Millersville University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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