Lonna Stachelczyk
ALPHARETTA,Georgia
Summary
Dedicated educator with a strong background in instructing diverse special education students using a modified curriculum. Demonstrates outstanding organizational skills to create and maintain structured classrooms that promote effective learning. Adaptable and diligent in catering to individual student needs, fostering warm and secure educational environments. Competent at performing independently or as a valuable member of a teaching team.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Specialized Instruction Teacher
Forsyth County Schools
10.2019 - Current
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Increased student literacy rates by implementing evidence based reading strategies for individualized education plans.
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, with multiple forms of representation, and hands-on activities.
- Differentiated instruction on a modified curriculum to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum.
- Organized content based field trips and IEP based CBI trips that enriched students'' learning experiences outside the traditional classroom setting on a weekly basis.
- Pursued professional development opportunities through the Forsyth County Special Education Academy in the 23-24 school year to stay current in educational trends.
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques to create a safe and nurturing classroom environment.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and on-task participation among students.
- Completed- detailed student progress reports quarterly to notify students and parents of strengths and areas of improvement.
- Developed a tailored adaptive art program designed to specifically educate students on a modified curriculum about various artists and their respective art genres, with the intention of having my paraprofessional take over its implementation to eventually spread to other schools within the district.
Preschool Teacher
John's Creek United Methodist Church
08.2012 - 10.2019
- Enhanced student reading skills by implementing engaging literacy activities and utilizing age-appropriate books.
- Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
- Ensured a fun, safe, and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
- Increased parent involvement by effectively communicating with families about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and student progress reports.
- Strengthened communication skills among preschoolers through daily dialogue practice during circle time and play-based activities.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
Play Center Attendant
Ed Isakson Alpharetta YMCA
05.2001 - 03.2019
- Enhanced children''s play experience by creating engaging, fun, safe, and age-appropriate activities.
- Supported positive behavior by implementing consistent disciplinary guidelines and promoting open communication with parents.
- Promoted inclusivity by adapting activities to accommodate children of varying abilities and backgrounds.
- Managed multiple responsibilities effectively, including supervision, activity planning, and conflict resolution.
- Provided compassionate support to children experiencing separation anxiety or other emotional challenges during their time at the play care center.
- Handled emergencies calmly while following established protocol maintaining the safety of all involved and administering first aid when necessary.
- Actively participated in regular staff meetings sharing ideas insights staying up-to-date on center policies.
Education
Education Specialist - Special Education
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA05-2025
Master of Arts - Teaching Special Education
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL12.1997
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Behavior Management
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- Special Needs Students
- Lesson planning
- Serving diverse communities
- Student-centered learning
- Differentiated instruction
Accomplishments
- “Teacher of the Month” award at Piney Grove Middle School 2025.
Timeline
Specialized Instruction Teacher
Forsyth County Schools
10.2019 - Current
Preschool Teacher
John's Creek United Methodist Church
08.2012 - 10.2019
Play Center Attendant
Ed Isakson Alpharetta YMCA
05.2001 - 03.2019
Education Specialist - Special Education
University of West Georgia
Master of Arts - Teaching Special Education
University of West Georgia
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of South Alabama