Summary
Versatile Special Education Teacher with focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of hands-on lessons, catering to diverse learning abilities. Excels in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Onahan School
08.2004 - Current
- 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.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
- Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
- Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
- Mentored new teachers on student progress monitoring and legal document preparation.
- Applied proven strategies to improve students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills.
- Provided emotional support to students and families.
Education
Master of Arts - Special Education
06.1997
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology/Graphic Design
06.1990
- LaSallian English Honors Program
Skills
- Differentiated Instruction
- Individual Education Plans IEPs
- Co-teaching, Pull-Out Experience
- Data Management
- Team Collaboration
- Motivating students
- Autism Spectrum Knowledge
- De-Escalation Techniques
- Visual supports
- Behavior Modifications
- Assistive Technology
- Group and Individual Instruction
- Google Slides
- Assessment Administration
- Development of Social Skills
Accomplishments
- Trained fellow teachers on the procedures for designing and implementing Individual Education Plans.
- Chaired and developed the Photography Club
- Co-coached girls softball
- Co-directed school plays, talent shows
- Teacher Representative on PTO
- Math tutor and expert in adapting the curriculum so children who struggle understand it.
- Trained in Orton Gillingham and Wilson Reading Programs
- Proficient in IXL
- Supervised team of 5 staff members to resolve issues in the school through the Professional Problems Committee.
- PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions And Supports) Coach for the school.
Certification
- Licensed PEL, Prekindergarten-Age 22
Timeline
Special Education Teacher - Chicago Public Schools, Onahan School
08.2004 - Current
University of Illinois At Chicago - Master of Arts, Special Education
St. Mary's College - Bachelor of Arts, Psychology/Graphic Design
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