Mari Leslie
Summary
Knowledgeable and dedicated teacher with a proven track record in early childhood education. Skilled at developing engaging lessons and fostering a nurturing classroom environment to enhance student learning and development while consistently demonstrating strong communication and classroom management skills.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Kindergarten Teacher
Gulfport School District, West Elementary School
01.2025 - 01.2026
- Orchestrated data-driven small group interventions by analyzing bi-weekly assessment trends ensuring that 90% of diverse learners met or exceeded their individualized growth targets
- Leveraged a wide range of instructional scaffolding and multi-sensory tools to provide differentiated instruction
- Cultivated a safe, predictable learning environment by integrating trauma-informed care practices and daily check-in rituals, which decreased behavioral disruptions and increased overall classroom engagement for students facing external stressors.
Advanced Academics Resource Teacher
Department of Defense Education Activities, Sasebo Elementary School
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Collaborated with grade level teachers to plan and implement enrichment activities to support advanced learners' academic growth
- Generated test sessions, developed testing schedule, and administered CogAT screener to all 2nd grade students as well as students with referrals for Advanced Academics
- Analyzed data to identify students with gifted abilities and maintained up to date student data profiles
Kindergarten and First Grade Teacher
Department of Defense Education Activities, Sasebo Elementary School
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Taught and managed a class of 20 Kindergarten and First Grade students using 21st Century learning strategies
- Analyzed data to create and implement engaging lesson plans aimed to develop literacy and math skills
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Collaborated with parents and school personal to support student's social and emotional development
Primary Montessori Teacher
Charleston County School District, Murray-LaSaine Montessori School
08.2016 - 06.2021
- Implemented Montessori teaching methods and philosophy to teach a diverse group of 20 children in a multi-age classroom (3-6 years old)
- Utilized Montessori materials to create engaging and hands-on lessons to promote independence and love of learning
- Created an environment that fostered intrinsic motivation and critical thinking
Education
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio05-2015
Skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Behavior management
- Lesson planning
- Early childhood development
- Parent-teacher communication
Certification
- OH Professional Educator License Valid 2023-2028
- Gifted and Talented Education Coursework 2015, 2023-2024
- Montessori Teaching Certificate Issued 2022
- CPR and First Aid Certification
Leadership Roles
- Chairperson for the Advanced Academic Review Committee 2023-2024
- Yearbook Club sponsor 2022-2024
- Lead teacher of the primary team 2020-2021.
- Voted Teacher of the Year 2017-2018
Timeline
Kindergarten Teacher
Gulfport School District, West Elementary School
01.2025 - 01.2026
Advanced Academics Resource Teacher
Department of Defense Education Activities, Sasebo Elementary School
01.2023 - 01.2024
Kindergarten and First Grade Teacher
Department of Defense Education Activities, Sasebo Elementary School
01.2021 - 01.2023
Primary Montessori Teacher
Charleston County School District, Murray-LaSaine Montessori School
08.2016 - 06.2021
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of Cincinnati