Melissa Connor

• Developed engaging math and science lesson plans aligned with state curriculum standards.
• Implemented hands-on experiments to enhance student understanding of scientific concepts.
• Utilized various instructional technologies to facilitate interactive learning experiences.
• Monitored student progress through assessments, providing targeted feedback for improvement.
• Analyzed data from student assessments to inform instruction and improve academic outcomes.
• Assessed student learning regularly using various formative and summative assessment tools, guiding data-driven instructional decisions.
• Retained student interest and maximized receptive learning.
• Created supportive and inclusive learning environments, fostering positive classroom atmospheres supporting student growth and learning.

• Developed and implemented creative, effective math lessons for 6th - 8th grade students
  
• Incorporated differentiated instructional strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities
• Collaborated with Instructional Assistants and Special Education co-teachers to present dynamic instruction
• Instructed General Education, Special Education, Learning Language Disabled and English Language Learning students
• Created a safe, positive and pleasant classroom environment that promoted respect, inclusivity and personal responsibility
• Completed in-service to maintain professional growth
• Utilized multimedia strategies and technology to convey information in fresh ways
• Organized and provided after-school extra help sessions

• Collaborated with classroom teacher to design engaging lessons that aligned with state science curriculum.
• Monitored student progress to identify areas requiring extra support and implementation of action plans.
• Provided support during classes, group lessons, and classroom activities.
• Provided one-on-one support to students with special needs, enabling them to achieve academic success.
• Prepared instructional materials such as presentations, visuals aids, or manipulatives.
• Implemented behavior management to maintain focused learning environment.
• Contributed to a positive and collaborative school culture by actively participating in staff meetings, committees, and professional learning communities.
• Assisted other educators in planning and executing field trips that reinforced curriculum.
• Participated in parent-teacher conferences and Back-to-School events
• Supported General Education, as well as Special Education, Learning Language Disabled and English- Language Learning students.
• Handled class records for attendance, grades and course participation.

After the birth of my son in June 2009 I opted to take a sabbatical from teaching to focus on my family and volunteer work in the local schools. In 2012 my second son arrived, further delaying my return. I remained engaged in education in the following roles:

• Volunteer for the PTA
• "Class mom", trip chaperone, event co-planner, etc.
• 5 years as a selected trustee of the Ringwood Educational Foundation (REF) - a 503B charity that raises funds and awards grants to teachers in all Ringwood schools.
• Tutor to students in middle and high school math
• Substitute teacher in Ringwood and Haskell Schools
• Home school teacher to my and my neighbors' children during school closure in the pandemic

In 2021 I chose to re-enter the workforce full time, "testing the waters" of balancing work and home life as an Instructional Assistant. I planned on remaining in the role only a year, but despite other offers, my love of the school and position lead to my staying four!

Unfortunately Haskell Elementary has a very small middle school population, and a math or science teaching position will not be available there in the foreseeable future.

• Created and implemented original math lesson plans from the Pre-Algebra, 7th and 8th grade curriculums for over 100 students of varying ability levels.
• Differentiated instruction for Advanced, General Education and Special Education students.
• Worked with in-class support paraprofessionals.
• Incorporated cooperative learning techniques, use of hands-on manipulatives, and positive reinforcement to enhance student learning.
• Prepared students for the New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJASK).
• Utilized my computer background to incorporate innovative technology-based lessons.
• Maintained close parent contact and collaboration.
• Utilized online grading and maintained class website accessible by students and parents.
• Provided before and after school assistance beyond school requirements.
• Attended various professional development workshops to improve educational strategies
• Modeled core school values in all interactions with students, families, administrators and fellow teachers.
• Acted as GO Club advisor, 7th & 8th Grade dance chaperone and trip chaperone

• Created and implemented original math lesson plans from the 7th and 8th grade, Pre-Algebra and Honors Algebra I curriculums for over 100 students of varying ability levels.
• Differentiated instruction for Special Education and Basic Skills students.
• Team taught with Special Education teachers and paraprofessionals.
• Prepared students for the Grade Eight Proficiency Assessment (GEPA).
• Helped to increase the GEPA Mathematics scores approximately 30% over 3 years.
• Frequently collaborated with colleagues/supervisors to improve pacing guide and adjust curriculum.
• Utilized my computer skills to incorporate innovative technology-based lessons.
• Maintained close parent contact and collaboration
• Provided before and after school extra help sessions beyond school requirements
• Attended AMTNJ conference and various workshops to improve educational strategies
• Managed classroom behavior effectively to create a positive and focused learning environment.
• Assessed student progress regularly through formative and summative assessments.
• Designed creative project-based assignments that encouraged teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.

Extra-Curriculars:

• 7th and 8th grade Math League Advisor
• Ocean County Math League Committee – member
• Co-planner/organizer of 8th Grade Academic Award Celebration
• 7th & 8th Grade dance chaperone and class trip chaperone
• 8th grade student mentor

• Worked in a variety of 5th – 8th grade classroom settings, including: Special Education, Mathematics, Literacy, Social Studies, Science and Computers.
• Held 5 long-term positions, performing the duties of a regular classroom teacher including lesson creation /implementation, parent contact, grade keeping, etc.
• Acted as a long-term substitute for Grade 8 Alternative School, Grade 7-8 Self-Contained, Behavioral Special Education, Science Grade 8 and Grade 6-8 Science In-Class Support.
• Was offered a full time teaching mathematics position at conclusion of the school year.