Megan Hickman
Cheney
Summary
Dedicated elementary school teacher passionate about fostering a love of learning in students and creating a nurturing, inclusive classroom environment. Skilled in diverse teaching strategies, integrating technology, and utilizing real-world applications to enhance student engagement. Seeking to leverage strong communication, creativity, and collaboration skills to inspire and educate students in a dynamic school community, promoting critical thinking and lifelong learning.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fourth Grade Teacher
Hallett Elementary School
Medical Lake, WA
08.2021 - Current
- Design and deliver instruction using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to meet diverse student needs, incorporating technology and varied strategies that are aligned with curriculum standards.
- Provide targeted academic support through small group instruction and individualized assistance to reinforce learning and promote student growth, while keeping expectations clear and creating a classroom environment that feels safe, respectful, and focused.
- Develop and utilize interactive materials and resources that encourage student engagement, critical thinking, and active participation.
- Foster a positive, structured classroom environment by clearly communicating learning objectives, behavioral expectations, and consistent routines.
- Lead hands-on, developmentally appropriate activities that support physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Collaborate with colleagues to plan and implement cohesive, standards-aligned lessons and share effective instructional practices.
- Participate in ongoing professional development and staff collaboration to continuously improve teaching effectiveness and stay current with best practices and district curriculum.
- Administer assessments and conduct observations (e.g., AimsWeb, SBAC) to evaluate progress, guide instruction, and identify individual learning needs.
Kindergarten Teacher
Michael Anderson Elementary School
Medical Lake, WA
08.2020 - 06.2021
- Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate lessons using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to support students.
- Provide small group and one-on-one instruction to reinforce foundational skills in literacy, math, and social-emotional learning, ensuring all students receive individualized support.
- Create a warm, structured classroom environment by clearly modeling expectations, using consistent routines, and promoting positive behavior through encouragement and guidance.
- Lead hands-on activities that support whole-child development—including fine and gross motor skills, early literacy, number sense, creativity, and self-expression—through play, music, movement, stories, and art.
- Collaborate with grade-level teams and support staff to design developmentally appropriate, standards-aligned units and activities that build foundational skills and confidence while staying aligned with the district curriculum.
- Develop and organize interactive learning materials, centers, and sensory activities that promote exploration, curiosity, and student engagement.
- Conduct developmentally appropriate assessments and observations (e.g., AimsWeb, WA Kids) to monitor progress, guide instruction, and support individual learning goals.
- Participate in ongoing professional learning, team meetings, and training to stay current with early childhood best practices and enhance instructional strategies.
Library Tech
Medical Lake School District
Medical Lake, WA
08.2019 - 08.2020
- Assist students, teachers, and staff in finding and using library resources, including reference materials, audiovisual equipment, computers, and other electronic resources, offering technical support as needed.
- Manage the circulation of library materials by reserving, checking out, renewing, and returning books and other resources.
- Maintain accurate records of library materials, tracking items received, stored, issued, and returned according to the library’s organizational system.
- Read books aloud to the entire class or small groups, encouraging student engagement and reviewing key concepts.
- Develop and deliver lessons that connect books with educational activities, fostering literacy and a love of reading.
Long Term Substitute
Lakenheath Elementary School (DODEA)
RAF Lakenheath, UK
08.2018 - 07.2019
- Implement lesson plans and deliver instruction across various subjects, ensuring curriculum continuity.
- Provide individual support and adapt instruction to meet diverse student needs.
- Manage classroom behavior and maintain a positive, structured environment.
- Supervise students during non-instructional times, ensuring safety and social development.
- Communicate with students and staff on student progress.
- Follow routines and procedures for smooth classroom transitions.
- Support students' emotional and social growth alongside academic development.
Kindergarten Aide
Lakenheath Elementary School (DODEA)
RAF Lakenheath, UK
08.2016 - 08.2018
- Assist the lead teacher in delivering age-appropriate lessons and activities that support early childhood development in literacy, math, and social skills.
- Provide individual and small group support to reinforce classroom instruction and meet students’ learning needs.
- Help manage classroom behavior by implementing routines and reinforcing positive behavior in a nurturing and structured environment.
- Support children’s social and emotional development by guiding appropriate interactions and fostering a positive classroom atmosphere.
- Supervise students during non-instructional times (e.g., recess, lunch) to ensure safety and encourage positive socialization.
- Assist in the observation and assessment of students’ progress, providing feedback to the lead teacher on individual student needs.
- Help maintain a clean and organized classroom environment that is conducive to learning and exploration.
Education
Master of Education - Elementary Education
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ12.2020
Bachelor of Science - General Social Science
Troy University
Troy, AL12.2015
High School Diploma -
Colleton Preparatory Academy
Walterboro, SC05.2002
Skills
- Targeted Teaching Strategies
- Detail-Oriented Accuracy
- Effective Classroom Management
- Engaged Communication
- Constructive Communication Abilities
- Collaborative Team Player
Leadership Roles
In my role as the team lead for fourth grade, I coordinate lesson planning, facilitate collaboration, and ensure consistency across the grade level classrooms. I help lead data discussions, support new team members, and communicate effectively with administration to represent our team’s goals and needs. My leadership helps create a cohesive, supportive environment focused on student success and professional growth.
Certification
- STATE OF WA EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE
CERTIFICATE NUMBER: 563518J
Timeline
Fourth Grade Teacher
Hallett Elementary School
08.2021 - Current
Kindergarten Teacher
Michael Anderson Elementary School
08.2020 - 06.2021
Library Tech
Medical Lake School District
08.2019 - 08.2020
Long Term Substitute
Lakenheath Elementary School (DODEA)
08.2018 - 07.2019
Kindergarten Aide
Lakenheath Elementary School (DODEA)
08.2016 - 08.2018
Bachelor of Science - General Social Science
Troy University
Master of Education - Elementary Education
Grand Canyon University
High School Diploma -
Colleton Preparatory Academy