Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

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

15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

1st grade Long-Term Sub

Cold Harbor Elementary School
10.2024 - Current
  • Took on all duties of the classroom teacher, including lesson planning, grading, progress monitoring, and parent communication
  • Differentiated instruction to meet the needs of students with IEPs, English Language Learners, and varying academic levels
  • Created a structured and supportive classroom environment that encouraged student engagement and positive behavior
  • Collaborated with grade-level teams, instructional assistants, and support staff to ensure consistency and student success
  • Communicated regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress, behavior, and classroom updates
  • Participated in professional meetings and contributed to team planning to maintain alignment with pacing guides and school goals

Instructional Assistant

THREE CHOPT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
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
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
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
Norfolk, VA
05.2025

Associate of Social Science - Teacher

REYNOLDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Richmond, VA
06.2017

Education of Individuals With Autism

Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
01.2017

Skills

  • Adaptability
  • CPR And First Aid
  • Effective Communicator
  • Empathetic and Compassionate
  • Enthusiasm for Students and Teaching
  • Experience working with Diverse Student Populations

Certification

  • Child Abuse and Neglect Recognition and Intervention Training
  • Cultural Competency Training
  • Dyslexia Awareness Training
  • First Aid/ CPR/AED Training
  • Passing scores on:
  • VCLA Assessment
  • Praxis 5002
  • Praxis 5004
  • Praxis 5005
  • Praxis 5025

Timeline

1st grade Long-Term Sub

Cold Harbor Elementary School
10.2024 - Current

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

Associate of Social Science - Teacher

REYNOLDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Education of Individuals With Autism

Virginia Commonwealth University

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
Melissa Parks