MELISSA ALLEN
Stuarts Draft,VA
Summary
Personable, articulate, professional, energetic, organized, positive, and self-motivated. Able to adapt quickly to challenges and changing environments. Compassionate and positive toward students while achieving curriculum goals. Demonstrated experiences developing thematic units for literacy, social studies, and science while integrating many forms of technology and various learning strategies including hands-on and cooperative learning. Strengths include organization, managing colleagues, motivating people, and a strong work ethic. Track record of being responsible, having a positive attitude, problem-solving, attentive, job completion in a timely and organized manner, and being a strong remodel for colleagues.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Virtual Teacher Math 6 - Michigan
Elevate K-12
Chicago, IL
01.2024 - Current
- Delivered high-quality, engaging online instruction to students.
- Delivered live, interactive lessons to students through the Elevate K-12 platform.
- Adapted lessons to meet individual student needs and learning styles.
- Regularly evaluated student progress through quizzes, assignments, and projects.
- Provided timely and constructive feedback to support learning.
- Maintained a positive, productive online learning environment.
- Managed student participation and addressed behavior issues within the virtual space.
- Collaborated with other Elevate K-12 teachers, instructional coaches, and support staff to improve teaching practices and student outcomes.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to maintain classroom discipline.
- Created lesson plans and chose supporting materials to promote positive learning experiences.
- Prepared and maintained classroom environments appropriate for student learning, and physical, social, and emotional development.
- Used videos, lectures, and moderated discussions to engage students during class.
- Utilized technology such as interactive whiteboards and online resources to enhance instruction.
- Met with parents and guardians to discuss the student's progress and areas requiring improvement.
- Held conferences with parents to address questions, discuss academic progress, and encourage learning goals.
- Met with administrators and department team members to work on curriculum planning and assessment methods.
- Instructed students in academic subjects such as math, science, language arts, social studies, and history.
- Collaborated with colleagues to plan lessons that integrate various subject areas into a cohesive unit of study.
- Assessed student performance through tests, quizzes, and other assessments.
- Conquered the challenges of working with a highly diverse student population to attain exceptional student achievement.
- Engaged students through lectures and discussions, increasing classroom interaction to build an inclusive learning environment.
- Participated in workshops, training sessions, and conferences to improve educational skills.
- Utilized technology-based learning tools to enhance classroom instruction.
- Scheduled and held parent-teacher conferences to keep parents up-to-date on children's academic performance.
- Encouraged critical thinking skills and problem-solving strategies among students.
- Received recognition for contributions to innovative concepts in classroom instruction.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on curriculum objectives.
Edmentum Educator
Edmentum, Inc.
Bloomington, MN
01.2023 - Current
- Collaborate with classroom teachers to identify and assess students who require small group instruction in a specific subject area.
- Develop and implement individualized intervention plans for students that align with district and state standards.
- Provide small group instruction to students in a way that is engaging and effective, using a variety of instructional strategies and resources.
- Monitor student progress, and adjust intervention plans as needed to ensure student success.
- Communicate regularly with classroom teachers and administrators to keep them informed of student progress.
- Maintain accurate records of student progress and intervention plans.
- Conveyed and utilized strong communication and interpersonal skills to establish a positive rapport with students, parents, and fellow educators.
- Conducted individual or small group tutoring sessions as needed for struggling students.
- Created and modified various teaching documents using Microsoft Office and PowerPoint.
- Identified weaknesses and strengths to create strategic student improvement plans.
- Planned and implemented lessons using various teaching strategies to meet diverse student needs.
- Created lesson plans and activities to engage students in the learning process.
- Encouraged students to explore learning opportunities while persevering through challenging tasks.
- Assessed student progress, and provided feedback regularly.
- Collaborated with colleagues to share best practices in teaching methods.
- Designed curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional materials for classroom teaching.
- Made special accommodations to integrate students with ADD, ADHD, and other learning disabilities.
- Established expectations for student behavior while maintaining an atmosphere of mutual respect.
- Created lesson plans and chose supporting materials to promote positive learning experiences.
- Scheduled tutoring sessions to help students improve grades and gain a better grasp of course material.
- Integrated multimedia tools, such as videos, slideshows, and audio recordings, into lessons when appropriate.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans to meet the individual needs of students.
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance, grades, and test scores.
- Conquered the challenges of working with a highly diverse student population to attain exceptional student achievement.
- Created a safe, comfortable learning environment for students by establishing positive relationships with them.
Special Education Teacher, Lead Special Education Teacher, Advanced Tiers Chair for VTSS
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Charlottesville, Virginia
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Formulated and implemented Individualized Education Programs using Easy IEP.
- Incorporated special learning strategies for learning-disabled students, encompassing self-questioning, rehearsal and review, cognitive behavior modification, organization, memory strategies, and modeling.
- Skilled at keeping students on task and tailoring lessons to meet specific needs.
- Administered testing, including SOL, PALS, WIAT-III, and IA, as well as prepared students for the bi-weekly and term exams, and created formative assessments.
- Utilized technology in the classroom as part of the learning experience, including student tablets, iPads, SMARTBOARD, Elmo, and iPods.
- Consistently analyzed data to increase achievement, and test scores.
- Planned for and instructed K-4th grade students in reading, writing, science, and social studies, while collaborating with regular education teachers.
- Established a learning environment to meet and enhance the children’s emotional, intellectual, social needs, and creative strengths.
- Created and implemented VTSS professional development for staff.
- Facilitated VTSS Advanced Tiers meetings.
- Gathered and analyzed data for VTSS Advanced Tiers Meetings.
- Maintained accurate records of all board proceedings, including minutes from meetings.
- Facilitated collaborative discussions among Board members during meetings to promote consensus-based decision-making.
- Established performance metrics to monitor progress towards organizational goals.
- Served as an intermediary between internal departments regarding sensitive topics brought before the board.
- Ensured compliance with legal requirements relating to educational governance practices.
- Prepared reports summarizing key action items discussed at board meetings for distribution to directors after each session.
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
- Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
- Updated and maintained databases with current information.
- Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
Grade Level Lead Teacher - 4th Grade
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Charlottesville, Virginia
01.2015 - 01.2020
- Formulated and implemented a 4th-grade reading curriculum.
- Creating and maintaining a 4th-grade pacing guide.
- Incorporated high-yield teaching strategies, including Marzano’s nine high-yield strategies.
- Created assessments, including mid-term and term assessments, in reading and math using the Interactive Achievement platform.
- Facilitate and participate actively in staff and weekly professional learning community meetings.
- Skilled at keeping students on task and tailoring lessons to meet specific needs.
- Utilized technology in the classroom as part of the learning experience, including student Chromebooks, iPads, SMART Board, Elmo, and iPods.
- Consistently analyzed data to increase achievement and test scores.
- Planned for and instructed 4th-grade students in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
- Established a learning environment to meet and enhance the children’s emotional, intellectual, and social needs, and creative strengths.
- Created and implemented STEM projects for students, incorporating skills learned in math, reading, science, and social studies.
- Planned and organized a variety of activities and field trips to aid mental and physical growth in children.
- Assisted in developing evaluation tools such as rubrics or checklists for assessing student work.
- Held conferences with parents to address questions, discuss academic progress, and encourage learning goals.
- Prepared and maintained classroom environments appropriate for student learning, and physical, social, and emotional development.
- Managed student behavior in the classroom by establishing and enforcing rules and procedures.
- Coordinated professional development activities for teachers within the department.
- Prepared and graded subject tests for students.
- Provided instructional guidance and mentorship to teachers in the development of lesson plans, instructional materials, and assessments.
- Utilized data-driven decision-making processes to assess student progress, inform instruction, and monitor teaching effectiveness.
- Assisted in resolving conflicts between students, families, and staff members.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to maintain classroom discipline.
- Worked with teachers to design interactive lessons and increase student success.
- Developed and implemented strategies to improve student learning outcomes.
- Served as a mentor for new teachers during their onboarding process.
- Completed teacher observations to identify areas for improvement and suggest changes to teaching methods.
Lead Reading Teacher - 6th grade
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Charlottesville, Virginia
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Formulated and implemented a 6th-grade reading curriculum.
- Creating and maintaining a 6th-grade pacing guide.
- Incorporated high-yield teaching strategies, including Marzano’s nine high-yield strategies.
- Created assessments, including mid-term and term assessments, in reading using the Interactive Achievement platform.
- Enhanced student engagement in learning, reading, and writing by maintaining a collaborative learning classroom environment.
- Facilitate and participate actively in staff and weekly professional learning community meetings
- Incorporate AVID strategies to increase student achievement.
- Skilled at keeping students on task and tailoring lessons to meet specific needs.
- Utilized technology in the classroom as part of the learning experience, including student Chromebooks, iPads, SMART Board, Elmo, and iPods.
- Consistently analyzed data to increase achievement and test scores
- Planned for and instructed 6th-grade students in reading and writing.
- Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
- Established a positive and engaging classroom environment that was conducive to improving literacy skills.
- Led book clubs or other extracurricular activities focused on fostering a love of literature among participants.
- Collaborated with other educational personnel to provide inclusive activities or programs for children with disabilities.
- Instructed students in standardized subjects as well as general learning strategies and skills for social development and character.
- Adapted lessons according to the needs of diverse learners including those with special educational requirements.
- Engaged students in meaningful conversations about literature topics, using higher-order questioning techniques.
- Provided individualized support to struggling readers through one-on-one tutoring sessions.
- Designed and delivered personalized learning for each student and advocated for student inclusion and success in general education environments.
- Communicated positively with students through engaging conversations.
- Interpreted assessment data to determine the best intervention methods for students.
- Conducted one-on-one and small group tutoring sessions to help struggling readers improve their skills.
- Utilized a variety of instructional strategies such as guided reading, phonics instruction, and literature circles to teach literacy concepts.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports, and state-specific special education documentation.
- Employed authentic assessment tools, such as portfolios or self-reflection activities, to measure progress toward reading objectives.
- Analyzed student data and prescribed remediation and enrichment to meet learning needs.
- Encouraged love of reading and promoted literacy to students.
Special Education and Regular Education Teacher (Modified Self Contained Reading, Science and Regular Education Social Studies, 6th grade)
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Charlottesville, Virginia
01.2011 - 01.2012
- Formulated and implemented Individualized Education Programs using Easy IEP
- Incorporated special learning strategies for learning-disabled students, encompassing self-questioning, rehearsal and review, cognitive behavior modification, organization, memory strategies, and modeling.
- Skilled at keeping students on task and tailoring lessons to meet specific needs.
- Administered testing, including SOL, WIAT-III, and IA, as well as prepared students for the bi-weekly and term exams, and created formative assessments.
- Utilized technology in the classroom as part of the learning experience, including student tablets, iPads, SMARTBOARD, Elmo, and iPods
- Consistently analyzed data to increase achievement and test scores
- Planned for and instructed 6th-grade students in reading, writing, science, and social studies.
- Established a learning environment to meet and enhance the children’s emotional, intellectual, social needs, and creative strengths.
- Encouraged critical thinking skills by posing questions that encouraged a deeper understanding of the subject matter being studied.
- Tested students' comprehension of the subject matter through quizzes, tests, and projects.
- Used videos, lectures, and moderated discussions to engage students during class.
- Supported English language learners by providing additional language instruction during class time.
- Met with administrators and department team members to work on curriculum planning and assessment methods.
- Prepared and maintained classroom environments appropriate for student learning, and physical, social, and emotional development.
- Assessed student performance through tests, assignments, and projects.
- Integrated technology into daily lessons to enhance student engagement.
- Created and enforced a child-based, hands-on curriculum to promote student interest and receptive learning.
- Evaluated student performance using standardized testing results along with teacher observations.
- Built and strengthened positive relationships with students, parents, and teaching staff.
- Integrated technology into the curriculum to enhance instruction and promote 21st-century skills development.
- Scheduled and held parent-teacher conferences to keep parents up-to-date on children's academic performance.
- Conquered the challenges of working with a highly diverse student population to attain exceptional student achievement.
- Supervised students throughout the day, both in the classroom and outside during breaks.
- Created a positive learning environment through classroom management strategies and discipline techniques.
- Instructed students in small groups or one-on-one settings to provide additional support when needed.
Special Education Teacher (5th Grade Reading and 6th Grade Social Studies)
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Charlottesville, Virginia
01.2010 - 01.2011
- Formulated and implemented Individualized Education Programs using Easy IEP.
- Incorporated special learning strategies for learning-disabled students, encompassing self-questioning, rehearsal and review, cognitive behavior modification, organization, memory strategies, and modeling.
- Skilled at keeping students on task and tailoring lessons to meet specific needs.
- Administered testing, including SOL, WIAT-III, and IA, as well as prepared students for the bi-weekly and term exams, and created formative assessments.
- Utilized technology in the classroom as part of the learning experience, including student tablets, iPads, SMARTBOARD, Elmo, and iPods.
- Consistently analyzed data to increase achievement and test scores.
- Planned for and instructed 6th-grade students in reading, writing, science, and social studies.
- Enhanced students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills through hands-on activities.
- Teamed with general education teachers to plan and implement curriculum, state and district-wide assessments.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to include students in classroom activities.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored to individual student needs.
- Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
- Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's progress.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
- Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
- Maintained student records in accordance with district standards.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system.
- Instructed students in standardized subjects as well as general learning strategies and skills for social development and character.
- Developed interesting and interactive learning methods tailored to help students with individual needs.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports and state-specific special education documentation.
Reading Specialist (long-term substitute)
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Charlottesville, Virginia
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Planned and instructed 5th grade students in reading and writing
- Administered testing including Phonics Blitz/Boost, Standards of Learning and analyzed results to form intervention groups for reading
Education
Ph.D - Curriculum and Instruction
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA05-2026
Master of Arts - Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Reading
Concordia University
Portland, OR01.2014
Special Education Teacher Certification -
Mary Baldwin College
Staunton, VA01.2010
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies with a minor in psychology – concentration in elementary education
Sweet Briar College
Amherst, VA01.2007
Skills
- In-depth knowledge of modern methods of teaching special and regular education
- Understanding of learning process
- Curriculum development and management
- Student Motivation
- Extensive experience in behavior, academic, emotional, social and cognitive development of special students
- Integration of technology into the school curriculum focusing on 21st Century Learning
Professional Development
- AVID conference in Philadelphia
- Effective Approaches to Teaching Content-Specific Vocabulary in the Secondary Classroom
- MAP Your Way to Success
- Behavior Interventions
- Understanding the National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers
- Critical Reading: Deep Reading Strategies for Expository Texts
- IPod Touches in the Classroom
- Conscious Classroom Management - Prevention and Procedures
- Flip it! Using Flip Cameras in the Elementary Classroom
- Differentiating a Lesson for a Variety of Reading Ranges
- Using the Results of Formative Assessment to Drive Instructional Decision-Making
- Stratologica Training Part I & II
- Inclusive Practices Institute
- Interactive Achievement (IA) Essentials
- Tools for the Secondary Classroom
- Collaborative Tools-Reimagining Curriculum
Timeline
Virtual Teacher Math 6 - Michigan
Elevate K-12
01.2024 - Current
Edmentum Educator
Edmentum, Inc.
01.2023 - Current
Special Education Teacher, Lead Special Education Teacher, Advanced Tiers Chair for VTSS
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
01.2020 - 01.2021
Grade Level Lead Teacher - 4th Grade
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
01.2015 - 01.2020
Lead Reading Teacher - 6th grade
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
01.2012 - 01.2015
Special Education and Regular Education Teacher (Modified Self Contained Reading, Science and Regular Education Social Studies, 6th grade)
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
01.2011 - 01.2012
Special Education Teacher (5th Grade Reading and 6th Grade Social Studies)
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
01.2010 - 01.2011
Reading Specialist (long-term substitute)
CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
01.2009 - 01.2010
Ph.D - Curriculum and Instruction
Regent University
Master of Arts - Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Reading
Concordia University
Special Education Teacher Certification -
Mary Baldwin College
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies with a minor in psychology – concentration in elementary education
Sweet Briar College
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