Marina Gianakis
Red Hook,NY
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated Lead Teacher at Devereux NY with 22 years of experience in supporting students with diverse learning needs. Proven track record in fostering positive learning environments, utilizing assistive technologies, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to enhance student outcomes. Fosters positive relationships and empowers staff through professional development aligned with best practices in special education. Strong advocate for equity, access, and culturally responsive teaching.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Special Education Teacher
Devereux NY
09.2003 - Current
- Supports student success with personalized attention, targeted interventions, and real-world experiences.
- Promotes a positive classroom environment by implementing D-PBIS strategies and clear expectations.
- Collaborates with fellow educators to develop cross-curricular lessons, projects, and thematic units.
- Provides ongoing professional development opportunities for staff members, offering guidance and support, and sharing best practices.
- Participates actively in DYAC and SWAG, student leadership groups focused on developing students' emotional and social growth.
- Leads Sunshine Committee focused on celebrating staff, improving morale, and fostering a positive school culture.
- Leads Special Events Committee focused on enhancing student experiences and promoting community integration.
Student Teacher, Preschool
St. Francis Special Needs Preschool
07.2003 - 08.2003
- Collaborated with special education teacher and related service providers to ensure consistency of support for students across all areas of development.
- Established positive relationships with parents through regular communication, fostering a strong home-school connection.
- Enhanced students' social skills by implementing group activities and cooperative learning strategies.
English as a Second Language Teacher
The Outreach Private Institute for English
09.1993 - 06.1998
- Educated students in basics of English grammar, reading and writing, and conversational speaking.
- Facilitated small group and individual instruction to maximize student learning.
- Assisted school administration with the selection of appropriate ESL resources and materials for use in the classroom setting.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Marketing
University of La Verne
La Verne, CAMaster of Science - Educational Administration
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ10-2025
Master of Science - Special Education
SUNY College At New Paltz
New Paltz, NY12-2003
Skills
- Life skills instruction
- Community-based instruction
- Vocational training
- Social skills development
- Emotional and behavioral disorders
- Crisis prevention and intervention
- Classroom management
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
Timeline
Lead Special Education Teacher
Devereux NY
09.2003 - Current
Student Teacher, Preschool
St. Francis Special Needs Preschool
07.2003 - 08.2003
English as a Second Language Teacher
The Outreach Private Institute for English
09.1993 - 06.1998
Bachelor of Science - Marketing
University of La Verne
Master of Science - Educational Administration
Grand Canyon University
Master of Science - Special Education
SUNY College At New Paltz
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