Maria Thomas
Oakland Twp.,MI
Summary
Enthusiastic educator with communication and interpersonal skills necessary to lead classrooms and execute lesson plans. Provides instruction and guidance to students of all ages. Creates positive classroom environments and effectively manages student behavior.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Long Term ELA6 Teacher
Rochester Community Schools
02.2024 - Current
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
- Participated in parent teacher conference to discuss developments of students and increase support.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as PD days to stay current in educational trends.
- Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
Substitute teacher
Edustaff
01.2023 - Current
- Working with Rochester Community Schools Elementary, Middle school, High School
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Provided instruction for students in core subject areas.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
- Provided support to special education students in inclusive classrooms, developing accommodations and modifications to meet their unique needs.
Teacher
Abiding Presence Preschool
09.2016 - 05.2022
- Worked cooperatively with other teachers, administrators, and parents to help students reach learning objectives.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Supported student physical, mental, and social development using classroom games and activities.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Planned and implemented integrated lessons to meet national standards.
- Fostered student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
- Scheduled conferences with parents to discuss students' progress and classroom behavior.
Teacher
Waterford School District
08.1998 - 06.2015
- Teacher at various grades including K, 1,2, Leader of the building literary team, Utilized classroom management strategies to create a positive learning environment, Worked collaboratively with district literacy team, Open communication verbally and through the use of technology with parents, students and faculty, Piloted math investigations program
Education
Masters Degree in Reading -
Oakland University
Rochester, MI08.2001
Bachelor of Science - Child Development, Elementary Education
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI05.1997
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Critical Thinking
- Lesson Planning
- Student Engagement
- Behavior Management
- Growth Mindset
- Differentiated Instruction
- Special Needs Students
- Team Collaboration
- Collaborative learning
Professional Development
- Professional Development 2/27/2024, 4/19/2024, 5/17/2024
- CPR / AED / First Aid Certification, 01/01/21
- Health and Safety Training, 05/01/21
- Student Teacher Mentor, 09/01/02, 04/01/03
- Leaders and Readers Coordinator, 2002, 2004, Waterford Schools
Timeline
Long Term ELA6 Teacher
Rochester Community Schools
02.2024 - Current
Substitute teacher
Edustaff
01.2023 - Current
Teacher
Abiding Presence Preschool
09.2016 - 05.2022
Teacher
Waterford School District
08.1998 - 06.2015
Masters Degree in Reading -
Oakland University
Bachelor of Science - Child Development, Elementary Education
Michigan State University
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