Melissa Williams
Utica
Summary
Qualified Special Education Teacher with a solid background in Special Education, providing tailored instructional strategies for diverse learning needs. Successfully development and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) to enhance student engagement and progress. Demonstrated expertise in behavior management and fostering inclusive classroom environments.
A focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of tangible lessons, catering to diverse learning needs and abilities. Proficient in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Utica City School District
Utica, NY
01.2024 - Current
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Implemented adaptive learning strategies to enhance student engagement and comprehension.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate support services for students, including but not limited to guidance support, behavioral support, community programs, and social worker.
- Monitored student progress and adjusted instructional methods accordingly.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate student performance and inform instructional decisions.
- Manage classroom behaviors to ensure a safe and inclusive environment. Fostered a positive classroom environment promoting inclusivity and respect among peers.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
- Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
Special Education Teacher
Herkimer Fulton Hamilton Otsego BOCES: Pathways Academy
Ilion, NY
09.2020 - 01.2024
- Developed individualized education plans (IEP) to meet diverse student needs, including Behavioral Intervention Plans. Attend annual IEP meetings.
- Implemented adaptive learning strategies to enhance student engagement and comprehension with the ability to modify daily lessons per individual student needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate support services for students. These include embedded social workers, behavioral support staff, administrative staff, and community outreach programs.
- Utilized assistive technology tools to facilitate learning and communication.
- Provided guidance to professionals in classroom management techniques.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
Teacher Assistant, Level III
The House Of The Good Shepherd
Utica, NY
10.2015 - 09.2020
- Assisted lead teacher in developing and implementing lesson plans tailored to student needs.
- Supported classroom management by maintaining a positive and conducive learning environment.
- Collaborated with teachers to track student progress and provide constructive feedback.
- Facilitated small group instruction to enhance individualized learning experiences for students.
- Substitute teaching as needed.
- Assisted students with special needs in achieving academic success through individualized instruction and personalized support strategies.
- Ensured the safety of all students by adhering strictly to school policies regarding proper supervision during class times as well as extracurricular activities.
Education
Master of Science - Students With Disabilities
Utica University
Utica, NY05-2023
Bachelor of Science - Pre-Law
Utica University
Utica, NY05-2014
Skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Classroom management
- Individual Education Plans (IEP)
- Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIP)
- Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
- Non-violent crisis intervention
- Excellent classroom management
- Small group instruction
- Co-teaching experience
- Relationship building
- Lesson planning
- Collaborative teamwork
- Data management
- Inclusion strategies
- Team collaboration
- Group and individual instruction
- Motivating students
- Parent communication
- Progress evaluations
- Student records management
- Parent-teacher collaboration
- De-escalation techniques
- Visual supports
Certification
- Students With Disabilities: Generalist. NY State Certificate #2755208 (06/08/23-08/21/2028)
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Utica City School District
01.2024 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Herkimer Fulton Hamilton Otsego BOCES: Pathways Academy
09.2020 - 01.2024
Teacher Assistant, Level III
The House Of The Good Shepherd
10.2015 - 09.2020
Master of Science - Students With Disabilities
Utica University
Bachelor of Science - Pre-Law
Utica University