Melissa Parks
Mechanicsville,Virginia
Summary
Drawing on my experience as a mother of three, I bring valuable personal insight into understanding and nurturing the social and emotional well-being of children. I know firsthand how important it is to recognize and celebrate each child's strengths and achievements, no matter how big or small. In my classroom, creating a safe and loving environment is a top priority for me. My teaching philosophy is based on constructivist and interdisciplinary approaches; I believe in guiding learning rather than giving students all the answers through direct instruction. With my background in early childhood education and my experience as a mother, I can create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment that meets the needs of each student's unique personality and learning styles.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Instructional Assistant
THREE CHOPT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
HENRICO, VA
08.2017 - 06.2021
- Assisted teacher in developing lesson plans and instructional materials
- Facilitated small group instruction for targeted skill development
- Supported students with special needs by providing individualized assistance and accommodations
- Collaborated with teachers on implementing classroom management strategies
- Documented student performance through notes, reports, and data tracking tools.
Preschool Lead Teacher
MINNIELAND ACADEMY
Mechanicsville, VA
01.2012 - 11.2015
- Encouraged children to learn through play and exploration
- Established class rules and behavior expectations while promoting a sense of responsibility in young learners
- Utilized various teaching strategies to accommodate the diverse learning styles of students
- Tracked and informed parents of children's developmental progress
- Conducted parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress, goals, and areas for improvement
- Created age-appropriate lesson plans to assist children's social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Teacher
BUNDLE OF JOY CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Glen Allen, VA
10.2010 - 08.2011
- Developed thematic units based on seasonal topics or interests expressed by children
- Implemented classroom management strategies to maintain a positive learning environment
- Documented student progress through anecdotal notes, portfolios, and assessments
- Helped children explore new ideas and concepts through hands-on learning.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
12.2024
Associate of Social Science - Teacher
REYNOLDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
06.2017
20 Hour Online ACE Autism Training - Education of Individuals With Autism
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA01-2017
Skills
- Adapting to Classroom Needs
- Adaptability
- Behavior Redirection
- Computer Skills
- CPR And First Aid
- Effective Communicator
- Empathetic and Compassionate
- Enthusiasm for Students and Teaching
- Experience working with Diverse Student Populations
- Lesson Planning
- Passion for teaching youth
- Special Education
Hobbies and Interests
- Volunteer with the special needs ministry at Fairmount Christian Church.
- Volunteer with YMCA Swim Team & ASD Swim Lesson Program.
Timeline
Instructional Assistant
THREE CHOPT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
08.2017 - 06.2021
Preschool Lead Teacher
MINNIELAND ACADEMY
01.2012 - 11.2015
Teacher
BUNDLE OF JOY CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
10.2010 - 08.2011
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
Associate of Social Science - Teacher
REYNOLDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
20 Hour Online ACE Autism Training - Education of Individuals With Autism
Virginia Commonwealth University