Maria Citrino
Ft. Lauderdale,FL
Summary
Knowledgeable and highly effective Physical Educator that works flexibly with large groups of children of varying cognitive abilities, physical abilities, psychological and social needs. Dedicated, resourceful, innovative instructor who strives to facilitate students’ social, intellectual, and physical growth by creating an atmosphere of trust, mutual respect, and open communication. Encourages socialization, sportsmanship, and skill development; motivating students so that physical fitness will become a lifelong recreational activity. Skilled in designing and implementing engaging physical fitness programs for students; implementing an innovative curriculum that balances physical activity and health education, fostering overall student well-being. Demonstrated ability to motivate students and cultivate positive and inclusive learning environment.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Adaptive and Reg. Ed Physical Education Teacher
Tropical Elementary School, MDCPS
Miami, USA
08.2002 - Current
- Responsible for the instruction of students of various ability levels in self contained and/or inclusive settings: PMH, PI, VI, IND and OHI.
- Trained students for participation in various MATP, Special Olympics and Jr. Orange Bowl events as well as region and district track meets for students with disabilities.
- Implemented the district's "I Can Do It, You Do It" annual initiative for students with disabilities
- Coordinated local field trips with PT/OTs to University of Miami's Annual Hurricane Challenge
- Taught physical education classes covering exercise strategies, sports, health education and safety.
- Maintain attendance and grades as required by school board policy.
- Organized annual field days (PreK, ESE, K-5)
- Trained students and organized participation in community events such as Miami Kids Run/Miami Marathon, promoting enjoyment of physical activity and instilling lifetime fitness among students.
- Created and managed a safe and inclusive classroom environment by establishing clear expectations for behavior and respect among students.
Seasonal Lifeguard
Miami Shores Aquatic Center
Miami, USA
05.2001 - 12.2019
- Ensured swimmer safety by vigilantly monitoring pool area and enforcing rules.
- Learned and maintained proficiency in first responder skills such as First Aid and CPR to offer individuals in distress optimal support.
Site Manager
Pitney Bowes Management Services
Miami, USA
01.1992 - 12.2001
- Responsible for overseeing satellite mailrooms and copy services for major law firms in order to prepare for trials/litigation
Part Time Sales Associate
Burdines/Macys
Miami, FL
01.1988 - 12.1992
- Responsible for retail sales, maintaining sales floor in an all folded clothing department, inventory and merchandising
Part Time Bank Teller
Amerifirst Bank
Miami, FL
01.1987 - 12.1988
- Managed high-volume transactions during peak hours while maintaining attention to detail, ensuring seamless customer experience.
- Balanced cash drawers accurately at the end of each shift, minimizing discrepancies in financial records.
Education
Master of Science - Physical Education
Florida International University
Miami, FL12.2004
Bachelor of Science - Physical Education, Certification in K-8
Florida International University
Miami, FL04.2002
Skills
- Caring and empathetic professional
- Excellent classroom management skills
- Proficient in teaching health and wellness education
- Effective Lesson planning
- Proficient in computers: Microsoft Office, Teams, Schoology, Pinnacle/Electronic Gradebook
- Ability to multitask while maintaining a high level of efficiency and attention to detail
- Highly adaptable to change and thrive in dynamic environments
- Effective at building relationships with peers, students and parents
- Excellent verbal and written communication
Accomplishments
2002 Tropical Elementary Rookie Teacher of the Year Award - Recognized for outstanding teaching performance, student engagement and contributions to the school community in my first year.
2002 Miami Dade County Physical Educator Rookie Teacher of the Year Award - Selected as the top first year educator across the county for excellence in instruction, innovation in the classroom and dedication to student success
2024 Most Spirited Award by Lifetime Fitness/Miami Kids Run/Miami Marathon
2024 Awarded a grant for equipment by Lifetime Fitness/Miami Kids Run/Miami Marathon - wrote a grant to acquire technological equipment for my physical education students to aid in increasing their participation and consequently fitness levels.
Selected Skills
- Ability to communicate in Spanish
- Proficient in use of (IOS), computers and the following software; Microsoft Office, Pinnacle/Electronic Gradebook, Teams, Schoology
- Ability to multitask.
- Works well under pressure
- Team player
References
Dr. Jayne Greenberg (Retired District Director of Physical Education and Health Literacy, MDCPS) - 305-310-8230
Mike Bromir (Retired Physical Education District Supervisor, MDCPS) - 305-519-2492
Cheryl Smith (Retired Physical Education Specialist for District Office, MDCPS) - 305-623-1225
Experience In Education
- Adaptive & Regular Ed. Physical Education Teacher, Tropical Elementary School/MDCPS, 08/16/02, present
- Substitute Teacher, Coral Way Elementary School/MDCPS, 04/22/2002 to 06/2002
- Student Teacher, Coral Way Elementary School/MDCPS, 01/15/2019 to 04/2019
Certification
Physical Education K-8
ESE Professional Endorsement K-12
ESOL K-12
First Aid/CPR/AED Certification - Exp. 4/2025
UF Flamingo Elem. Literacy Micro-Credential (satisfies Comp.1 of Florida's Reading Endorsement
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Adaptive and Reg. Ed Physical Education Teacher
Tropical Elementary School, MDCPS
08.2002 - Current
Seasonal Lifeguard
Miami Shores Aquatic Center
05.2001 - 12.2019
Site Manager
Pitney Bowes Management Services
01.1992 - 12.2001
Part Time Sales Associate
Burdines/Macys
01.1988 - 12.1992
Part Time Bank Teller
Amerifirst Bank
01.1987 - 12.1988
Master of Science - Physical Education
Florida International University
Bachelor of Science - Physical Education, Certification in K-8
Florida International University