Marcella Dawson
Summary
Dedicated Multi-talented Teaching Assistant, In-School Suspension Coordinator, and in-house Substitute. Skilled in student behavior management and redirection. Supports faculty and classroom needs, passionate about helping at-risk and special needs students. Offers over 10 years of experience.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
In-School Suspension Coordinator
Portsmouth Public Schools
08.2022 - Current
- Monitor students who have been assigned to in-school suspension.
- Discuss appropriate behavior with students, administrators, and counselors.
- Monitor student progress and implement intervention strategies to support student success.
- Escort students during breaks and lunchroom periods.
- In-house substitute when no students are in ISS for kindergarten to sixth grade including encore coverage.
Instructional Assistant
Portsmouth Public Schools
12.2015 - Current
- Provided support to help students with special needs in an Autism classroom k-6 learn and grow.
- Supported student learning objectives through personalized one-on-one and small-group assistance.
- Demonstrating knowledge of evidence-based strategies to foster independence and social-academic engagement.
- Used behavior modeling and specialized teaching techniques to share and reinforce social skills.
Recreation Aide II
City Of Portsmouth Parks & Recreation
09.2017 - Current
- Set up and break down equipment and supplies used in activities, focusing on safe handling and storing.
- Provided clear instruction to activity and program participants to deliver fun and maintain safety.
- Collaborated with other recreation staff in developing new recreational activities.
- Assisted in preparing recreational materials and supplies for each activity.
- Prepare monthly activity and USDA reports. Monitor inventory and staff scheduling.
Sales Associate
Dillard's
10.2013 - 04.2017
- Greeted customers and offered assistance with selecting merchandise, finding accessories, and completing purchases.
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote ladies' shoes and accessories.
- Prepared merchandise for the sales floor by pricing or tagging.
Parent Representative
Portsmouth Department Of Social Services
09.2009 - 06.2011
- Built solid and trusting rapport with children and families, fostering trust and communication to meet case needs.
- Assisted families in navigating the social services system, including applying for benefits, accessing resources, and connecting with other family support services.
Education
High School Diploma -
Montclair High School
Montclair, NJNo Degree - Social Science Teacher Education
Tidewater Community College
Norfolk, VA2025
Skills
- Conflict Resolution
- Classroom Instruction
- Special Education Programs
- Tracking Student Behavior and Progress
- Character Building
- Tutoring and Mentoring
- Group and Individual Instruction
- At-Risk Student Intervention and Mentoring
Timeline
In-School Suspension Coordinator
Portsmouth Public Schools
08.2022 - Current
Recreation Aide II
City Of Portsmouth Parks & Recreation
09.2017 - Current
Instructional Assistant
Portsmouth Public Schools
12.2015 - Current
Sales Associate
Dillard's
10.2013 - 04.2017
Parent Representative
Portsmouth Department Of Social Services
09.2009 - 06.2011
High School Diploma -
Montclair High School
No Degree - Social Science Teacher Education
Tidewater Community College