Maria Fuentes
Forney
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistant with over 10 years of experience supporting elementary and special education classrooms. Proven ability to provide individualized and small-group instruction, implement behavior intervention strategies, and support inclusive learning environments. CPI certified with strong communication, collaboration, and documentation skills.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Teacher Assistant – Specialized Unit
Dallas Independent School District (DISD)
02.2016 - Current
- Support classroom instruction and behavior management for students with diverse academic, behavioral, and emotional needs.
- Provide small-group and one-on-one instruction aligned with district curriculum and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
- Implement positive behavior strategies to promote emotional regulation and academic success.
- Assist teachers with lesson planning, instructional delivery, and classroom organization.
- Monitor and document student progress, attendance, and behavior in compliance with district requirements.
- Ensure student safety during transitions, recess, and classroom activities.
- Collaborate with teachers, specialists, and support staff to maintain inclusive learning environments.
Nursery Caregiver
Munger Church
11.2020 - 10.2024
- Provided attentive and nurturing care to infants and young children during services and special events.
- Maintained a safe, clean, and organized childcare environment.
- Managed secure child check-in and check-out procedures to ensure safety and accountability.
Receptionist / Administrative Support
Head Start of Greater Dallas
08.2013 - 07.2016
- Managed multi-line phone systems and front office operations in a school-based environment.
- Maintained organized filing systems and accurate administrative records.
- Coordinated scheduling for meetings, conferences, and staff communications.
- Assisted with human resources documentation and basic budget tracking.
Education
High School Diploma -
Eastfield College
Mesquite, TX03-2026
College Coursework - undefined
Penn Foster College
Scottsdale, AZ01-2013
High School Diploma - undefined
New Beginnings Christian Academy
Dallas, TX01-2008
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Behavior Intervention & Redirection
- Special Education & IEP Support
- Individual & Small-Group Instruction
- Positive Reinforcement Strategies
- Curriculum Modification
- Student Engagement
- Crisis Prevention (CPI Certified)
- Microsoft Office
- Documentation & Progress Monitoring
Timeline
Nursery Caregiver
Munger Church
11.2020 - 10.2024
Teacher Assistant – Specialized Unit
Dallas Independent School District (DISD)
02.2016 - Current
Receptionist / Administrative Support
Head Start of Greater Dallas
08.2013 - 07.2016
College Coursework - undefined
Penn Foster College
High School Diploma - undefined
New Beginnings Christian Academy
High School Diploma -
Eastfield College