Mary Rose Burke
Fairfax,VA
Summary
Dynamic educator specializing in creating inclusive, nurturing environments that foster creativity and critical thinking. Excels in classroom organization and effective communication, significantly enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. Renowned for a calm demeanor and adeptness in multicultural awareness, consistently praised for elevating educational experiences.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Instructional Assistant
Lord Of Life Preschool
09.2022 - 05.2024
- Encouraged creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking among students through variety of engaging projects and interactive lessons.
- Utilized differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate diverse learning needs.
- Supervised children in play-based learning, indoors and out.
- Managed classroom organization, adhering to schedules while keeping routines flexible for optimal learning.
- Cultivated strong relationships with parents/guardians through ongoing communication, and by participating in parent/teacher conferences.
- Participated in professional development workshops to stay current on best practices in early childhood education.
- Attended monthly staff meetings, collaborated with colleagues to enhance student learning.
- Assisted during special events for preschool families and wider community.
- Attended church meetings to advocate for preschool and its vital importance.
- Worked alongside lead teacher to identify potential developmental delays or concerns, implementing appropriate interventions as needed.
- Maintained safe and nurturing environment, promoting positive behaviors and social interactions.
- Supported development of fine and gross motor skills through guided play activities and hands-on experiences.
- Prepared instructional materials, ensuring all resources were easily accessible for both teachers and students.
- Assisted lead teacher with lesson planning, incorporating age-appropriate materials and engaging content.
- Fostered sense of community within classroom by encouraging cooperative learning activities between children from diverse backgrounds.
- Promoted language development through storytelling, songs, and other group activities that encouraged communication among peers.
- Provided individual and small group support for language acquisition of English language learners.
- Maintained classrooms by disinfecting and sterilizing surfaces and toys.
- Ensured compliance with state licensing regulations regarding safety protocols and required documentation within the preschool setting.
- Supported children's social and emotional development by encouraging understanding of others and positive self-concepts.
- Worked as Lead Lunch Bunch Teacher, up to 5 days a week.
- Took on role of lead teacher when regular lead teacher was absent.
Substitute Teacher
Lord Of Life Preschool
10.2021 - 05.2022
- Assisted in creating safe and nurturing classroom environment, promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Maintained day-to-day classroom management to promote learning initiatives.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
- Followed lesson plans designed by absent teachers.
Instructional Assistant
Prince William County Public Schools
11.2002 - 05.2003
- Provided instructional support in self-contained Special Education classroom of 1st to 3rd grade students with learning disabilities and emotional disturbances.
- Provided one-on-one and small group assistance in academic subjects to help students achieve their full potential.
- Participated actively in professional development opportunities focused on best practices in special education instruction and support services.
- Enhanced student progress by implementing individualized education plans and adapting instructional strategies to meet diverse needs.
- Supported students with behavioral challenges through consistent reinforcement of classroom expectations and positive feedback.
- Assisted students in general education classroom, to facilitate access to curriculum.
Substitute Teacher
Fairfax County Public Schools
09.2002 - 11.2002
- Followed classroom plans left by teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts, in elementary and middle school settings.
- Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
Education
ESOL
Iteach
Online06.2025
Special Education
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA2002
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA05.1997
Skills
- Classroom Organization
- Effective Communication
- Calm and Patient Demeanor
- Helping Students with Special Needs
- Teacher Collaboration
- Multicultural Awareness
- Small Group and Individual Instruction
- Relationship Building
Certification
- English for Speakers of Other Languages, PK-12: Passed ESOL Praxis Exam #5362, May 2024.
Professional Development
- Completed 11 courses through the Northern Virginia Association for the Education of Young Children and the Fairfax County Institute for Early Learning, Office for Children: 2022-2023
- American Red Cross: Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Certification (2 years): February 5, 2024
Volunteer Experience
Girl Scout Leader, Grades K-6: 2009-2011, 2017-2024
Sunday School Teacher/Children's Ministry Volunteer: 2009-2019
Timeline
Instructional Assistant
Lord Of Life Preschool
09.2022 - 05.2024
Substitute Teacher
Lord Of Life Preschool
10.2021 - 05.2022
Instructional Assistant
Prince William County Public Schools
11.2002 - 05.2003
Substitute Teacher
Fairfax County Public Schools
09.2002 - 11.2002
ESOL
Iteach
Special Education
George Mason University
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre
James Madison University
- English for Speakers of Other Languages, PK-12: Passed ESOL Praxis Exam #5362, May 2024.
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