Inspirational leader known for cultivating relationships and creating meaningful vocational and social programs for people with special needs (including my own daughter). Creating a nurturing/safe environment for people with disabilities that focuses on fun, independence as well as communication and job skills.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
CEO
Syd's Book Shack & Boutique
Madison , CT
03.2020 - Current
Direct overall business strategy and vision for the boutique and bookstore.
Managed daily operations, enhancing customer experience and satisfaction.
Developed targeted marketing campaigns that successfully promoted new product lines.
Oversee inventory management to maintain optimal stock levels and selection.
Analyze sales data to inform strategic decision-making processes.
Recruit, train, mentor, and manage employees at all levels within the organization in a nurturing environment
Cultivated strategic partnerships with external organizations, fostering mutually beneficial relationships.
Oversee, create and modify individualized vocational internships and social events for people with special needs in a nurturing environment.
Board Member SEPTO
Guilford Public Schools
Guilford, New YorkCT
09.2013 - 06.2015
Advocated for student needs during board meetings and public forums.
Participated in committee work to address curriculum development and assessment standards.
Engaged with parents and educators to gather feedback on school program
Facilitated communication between board members during decision-making processes.
Teacher
Fairfield Public Schools
Fairfield, CT
09.2000 - 06.2004
Advocate for inclusion and rights of students with special needs.
Developed engaging lesson plans that enhanced student learning and met state curriculum standards.
Facilitated classroom discussions to promote critical thinking and student participation.
Implemented assessments that provided actionable insights into student understanding and guided instructional adjustments.
Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary learning projects and activities.
Maintained a positive classroom environment fostering respect and cooperation among students.
Adapted teaching methods based on diverse learning styles within the classroom setting.
Prepared and maintained inclusive classroom environments appropriate for student learning and physical, social and emotional development.
Managed student behavior in classroom by establishing and enforcing rules and procedures.
Provided individualized instruction to meet the needs of all students. Modified student work for all ability levels.
Participated in professional development workshops related to teaching methods or curriculum changes.
Utilized technology-based learning tools to create interactive experiences that increased student engagement.
Created meaningful projects that allowed students to apply their knowledge in real world situations.
Created and enforced child-based, hands-on curriculum to promote student interest and receptive learning.
Utilized technology such as interactive whiteboards and online resources to enhance instruction.
Implemented behavior management strategies to maintain classroom discipline.
Encouraged critical thinking skills and problem solving strategies among students.
Tutored students requiring extra help and gave additional practice work to help improve concept understanding.
Addressed challenges of working with a diverse student population, including special needs students.
Manager Director
Boys & Girls Club Of Hartford
Hartford, Connecticut
10.1998 - 01.2000
Developed programs to engage youth in positive activities.
Coordinated community events, enhancing local engagement and support.
Managed daily operations to ensure effective program delivery.
Collaborated with local organizations for resources and partnerships.
Oversaw budget management for various club initiatives and activities.
Created inclusive programs, promoting safety and belonging for club members.
Mentored junior staff members on best practices in management.
Identified organizational improvement areas and developed actionable plans to address them.
Education
Master of Arts - Education
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT
05-2000
Master of Arts - Sociology-concentration Health Services
University of Delaware
Newark, DE
12-1996
Skills
Parent of a nonverbal autistic/ID child (22 years)
Experience with OT, PT, Speech Therapy
Ability to scaffold and modify vocational and social programs based on individualized needs
Promote self-esteem
Customer engagement
Project management
Employee training
Team leadership
Critical thinking
Problem solving
Inspirational leadership
Community outreach
Teamwork and collaboration
Teacher background
Timeline
CEO
Syd's Book Shack & Boutique
03.2020 - Current
Board Member SEPTO
Guilford Public Schools
09.2013 - 06.2015
Teacher
Fairfield Public Schools
09.2000 - 06.2004
Manager Director
Boys & Girls Club Of Hartford
10.1998 - 01.2000
Master of Arts - Education
University of Bridgeport
Master of Arts - Sociology-concentration Health Services