Versatile Upper Elementary Educator & High-Demand Classroom Leader
Dedicated education professional focused on cultivating student learning through innovative practices and high emotional intelligence (EQ). Recognized for a unique "multi-lens" approach, I excel at building immediate rapport and navigating complex class dynamics to ensure every student feels valued and supported. Consistently requested by name by 10+ lead teachers and administrators for high-priority and long-term assignments due to a proven reputation for maintaining instructional continuity and fostering inclusive, high-engagement environments. I am a collaborative partner committed to bridging learning gaps and aligning classroom culture with district objectives to drive student success.
Hi, I’m
Maria-Fernanda Hernandez-Noriega
Palo Alto,CA
Summary
Overview
12
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
Sequoia Unified School District
Substitute Teacher, 9-12
11.2024 - Current
Job overview
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Improved student comprehension by tailoring teaching methods to individual learning styles.
San Carlos District
Substitute Teacher, Preschool - 8
09.2022 - Current
Job overview
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
The Container Store
Designer and Sales Associate
09.2014 - Current
Job overview
- Instructional Design & Leadership: Leveraged design thinking to create high-impact visual aids for 3rd–4th grade learners; mentored colleagues to foster professional growth and collaboration.
- Operational Problem-Solving: Applied high-EQ and resource management to resolve complex "client" needs and optimize classroom logistics, routines, and student engagement.
San Carlos School District
Special Education/Intensive Math (Long-Term Substitute)
09.2024 - 11.2024
Job overview
- Instructed 6th–8th grade mathematics and specialized study skills, fostering student growth in executive functioning, time management, and organizational strategies.
- Differentiated instruction and modified curriculum to align with Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, ensuring all students received required accommodations.
- Built strong emotional connections with students and supported their well-being, both academically and personally.
San Carlos School District
Mathematics Teacher (Long-Term Substitute)
08.2023 - 06.2024
Job overview
- Used data-driven instruction to tailor lesson plans, maximizing individual student growth and achievement.
- Provided timely feedback on assignments, helping students identify areas of improvement and gain confidence in their abilities.
- Fostered collaboration with colleagues and supported students’ social-emotional growth through effective communication.
Escondido Elementary School
Student Teaching
01.2023 - 05.2023
Job overview
- Engaged 2nd, 4th, and 5th grade students' comprehension by incorporating visual aids and interactive activities into lessons.
- Supported English language learners through specialized instruction, significantly improving their language proficiency.
- Established strong professional relationships with school personnel for effective classroom management.
Adelante-Selby Spanish Immersion Elementary School
Student Teaching
08.2022 - 12.2022
Job overview
- Promoted positive and productive learning environment to increase engagement and rapport with students and teachers.
- Collaborated with fellow teachers to integrate cross-curricular themes, enriching educational experience.
- Adapted teaching strategies to cater to individual learning styles and fostered problem-solving skills.
Best In Class: Tutoring Center
Lead Teacher
09.2016 - 05.2017
Job overview
- Tutored K-12 students in Math, English, and Spanish, aligning lessons with Common Core standards.
- Coordinated with parents and guardians to support students' learning and development, maintaining open lines of communication.
Education
San Jose State University
Masters in Education
01-2023
University Overview
San Jose State University
Credential Program from Multiple Subject Credential / Bilingual Authorization
01-2023
University Overview
San Jose State University
B.A. from Liberal Studies (Preparation for Teaching)
01-2021
University Overview
Skills
- Passionate about student development
- Lesson adaptation for diverse learners
- Skilled in designing engaging scaffolded lessons
- Effective communication with parents and students
- Stress management support for students
Certification
- Multiple Subject Credential - California Commission on Teacher Credentialing - 2/27/2025 to 3/01/2030
- Adult First Aid | CPR AED All Ages Certification, HSI - 3/1/2025 to 3/2027
- Certificate of Clearance, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing - 2/25/2022 to 03/01/2027
- 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing - 10/1/2025 to 10/1/2026
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Full Professional
Interests
- Experimenting with various forms of art, such as acrylic paint, drawing, and mixed media, to nurture creativity and personal growth
Timeline
Substitute Teacher, 9-12
Sequoia Unified School District
11.2024 - Current
Special Education/Intensive Math (Long-Term Substitute)
San Carlos School District
09.2024 - 11.2024
Mathematics Teacher (Long-Term Substitute)
San Carlos School District
08.2023 - 06.2024
Student Teaching
Escondido Elementary School
01.2023 - 05.2023
Substitute Teacher, Preschool - 8
San Carlos District
09.2022 - Current
Student Teaching
Adelante-Selby Spanish Immersion Elementary School
08.2022 - 12.2022
Lead Teacher
Best In Class: Tutoring Center
09.2016 - 05.2017
Designer and Sales Associate
The Container Store
09.2014 - Current
San Jose State University
Credential Program from Multiple Subject Credential / Bilingual Authorization
San Jose State University
B.A. from Liberal Studies (Preparation for Teaching)
San Jose State University
Masters in Education