Dedicated educator with experience in fostering student engagement and collaboration. Experienced in implementing differentiated instruction and behavioral management while maintaining a positive, inclusive classroom environment. Strong communicator with a focus on driving measurable improvements in a student's academic performance. Passionate about leveraging technology and innovative teaching strategies to ensure high quality education for all students.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Sixth Grade Teacher
West Elk School District 282
Howard , KS
08.1995 - Current
Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding of core subjects.
Implemented differentiated instruction strategies to cater to diverse learning styles.
Fostered a positive classroom environment that encouraged student participation and collaboration.
Evaluated student progress through assessments and provided constructive feedback for improvement.
Organized parent-teacher conferences to discuss student performance and set academic goals.
Mentored new teachers on effective classroom management techniques and instructional practices.
Increased student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and group projects into lesson plans.
Managed afterschool tutoring program, providing additional support for struggling students to achieve academic success.
Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices and offering guidance on classroom management techniques.
Developed data-driven instructional strategies to address individual student needs and improve academic outcomes.
Utilized various assessment methods to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly throughout the school year.
Built strong relationships with students, parents, and staff to foster a supportive school community.
Organized field trips and guest speakers to supplement classroom instruction and expose students to real-world applications of course content.
Kept classroom organized, clean and safe for students and visitors.
Kept classroom environments consistent and focused on learning by establishing and enforcing clear objectives.
Communicated with parents and guardians regarding student progress and behavioral issues.
Integrated Smartboard and other instructional technologies into classroom.
Third Grade Teacher
Emporia School District #253
Emporia, KS
08.1994 - 05.1995
Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting student collaboration and respect.
Implemented diverse instructional strategies to accommodate various learning styles.
Assessed student performance regularly to identify areas for improvement.
Collaborated with colleagues to share best practices, resulting in a more cohesive instructional approach across grade level teams.
Maintained knowledge of school curricula, standards, and policies to correctly prepare students for higher grade levels.
Special Education Teacher
Emporia School District
Emporia, KS
08.1990 - 05.1994
Implemented behavioral interventions to support positive classroom environments and enhance learning.
Trained and mentored new special education staff on effective instructional techniques.
Advocated for students' rights, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations in special education services.
Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for the successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with the master schedule.
Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
Enhanced students' communication skills by implementing group activities and collaborative projects.
Developed and executed behavioral intervention plans, leading to a decrease in disruptive behaviors and an increase in classroom participation.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Paraprofessional
Emporia USD 253
Emporia, KS
08.1989 - 05.1990
Assisted teachers in delivering instructional materials and support for diverse learning needs.
Collaborated with educators to implement individualized education plans for students.
Facilitated classroom management, promoting positive behavior and engagement among students.
Supported student assessments, documenting progress and communicating findings to teachers.
Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
Education
Master of Science - Behavior Disorders Special Education
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS
05-1994
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS
05-1989
Skills
Parent-teacher communication
Student engagement
Collaborative learning
Special education
Mathematics teaching
Problem-solving skills
Social-emotional learning
Classroom management
Positive role model and mentor
Behavior management
Smartboard operation
Knowledgeable about technology
Strong written and verbal communicator
Positive relationships
Student engagement
Created a classroom environment in which children could earn respect for themselves and others
Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' needs and interests
Worked at West Elk summer camp programs, adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' needs and interests with drones and rockets for hands-on learning
National Education Association
Timeline
Sixth Grade Teacher
West Elk School District 282
08.1995 - Current
Third Grade Teacher
Emporia School District #253
08.1994 - 05.1995
Special Education Teacher
Emporia School District
08.1990 - 05.1994
Paraprofessional
Emporia USD 253
08.1989 - 05.1990
Master of Science - Behavior Disorders Special Education