Maria J. Santana
New York,NY
Summary
Dynamic youth counselor and educator with expertise in planning and delivering comprehensive programs that promote social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Experience in collaborating with families and staff to support youth in crisis and enhance their educational experiences through innovative lesson planning and behavior management.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Youth Counselor
Ali Forney Center
New York, New York
11.2025 - Current
- Supported homeless LGBTQ+ youth in crisis, helping them navigate immediate challenges.
- Facilitated group discussions enhancing social skills and emotional well-being among participants.
- Developed individualized care plans based on specific needs and goals.
- Collaborated with staff to create a safe and inclusive environment.
- Encouraged positive behaviors through reinforcement techniques such as praise or rewards.
- Engaged with challenged and troubled youth/adults to foster positive change and support personal growth.
- Planned guidance and counseling programs to meet identified priorities and program objectives.
After-School Teacher
PS 124
New York, New York
09.2025 - 06.2026
- Supervised group of children during after-school activities, ensuring safety and fostering engagement. of 10-15 children in an after school program setting.
- Facilitated daily activities that promoted teamwork and social skills among students.
- Supervised and guided students during homework sessions to enhance academic support.
- Assisted students in completing homework assignments and projects.
- Collaborated with parents to address student needs and foster positive relationships.
- Provided emotional support to children facing social or academic challenges, enhancing their confidence and resilience.
- Implemented behavior management strategies, promoting a positive and conducive learning environment.
- Developed engaging lesson plans for diverse student interests and learning styles.
- Encouraged positive behavior through rewards and incentives.
- Coordinated with teachers to align after-school programs with classroom learning objectives.
- Planned both long and short-range activities in accordance with curriculum objectives, developmentally appropriate practices and program philosophy.
Lead Teacher
University Settlement
01.2012 - 06.2024
- Planning and delivering lessons designed to facilitate students' social, emotional, and cognitive development.
- Encouraged self-expression by fostering understanding, flexibility, and behavioral reinforcement.
- Facilitated conflict resolution among students through open communication and mutual understanding.
- Modeling appropriate behaviors, even when not on duty.
- Ensuring that the classroom remains safe and conducive to learning at all times.
- Liaising with families to gain insight into students' home lives.
- Tracked student progress and communicated updates to parents to support student development.
- Plan and complete assignments in support of daily classroom program and activities.
- Write weekly lesson plans.
- Arrange field trips, home visits and in ordering supplies and materials.
- Attend and participate in staff and parent meetings and in training and development sessions.
- Executed additional tasks to support classroom operations and enhance student learning.
Administrative Assistant
Jackie Robinson Senior Center
New York, New York
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Facilitated efficient office operations through comprehensive administrative support.
- Managed phone inquiries, scheduled meetings, and assisted visitors professionally.
- Arranged travel logistics for senior staff, including flights, vehicles, and accommodations.
- Executed filing, typing, copying, binding, and scanning to support daily operations.
- Scheduled administrative projects to align with operational goals.
- Supported team organization through effective communication and task management.
- Addressed inquiries through effective communication via phone, email, and mail.
- Developed administrative staff by providing information and growth opportunities.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Psychology
Touro College
New York, NY01-2022
Associate's - Liberal Arts and Sciences
Touro College
New York, NY06-2017
GED -
Mid-Manhattan Adult Center
New York, NY01-2010
Skills
- Planning
- Organization
- Bilingual communication
- Oral communication
- Writing proficiency
- Emotional support
- Active listening
- Team Player
Timeline
Youth Counselor
Ali Forney Center
11.2025 - Current
After-School Teacher
PS 124
09.2025 - 06.2026
Lead Teacher
University Settlement
01.2012 - 06.2024
Administrative Assistant
Jackie Robinson Senior Center
01.2009 - 01.2010
Bachelor's Degree - Psychology
Touro College
Associate's - Liberal Arts and Sciences
Touro College
GED -
Mid-Manhattan Adult Center