Michaela Shurden
Hernando,MS
Summary
Certified K-8 Teacher with 25 years of experience. Detail-oriented planner with talent for providing individualized instruction in a hospital setting and cultivating classroom atmospheres of positivity and progress. Committed to academic excellence while also balancing social, emotional support.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
K-5 Teacher
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
01.2006 - Current
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with chronic illnesses, enabling them to excel in their coursework while undergoing treatment
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques for diverse learners, ensuring that each student received targeted support to meet their unique needs.
- Supported students'' social-emotional growth by fostering a safe and inclusive classroom environment where all voices were valued and respected.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary lesson plans, reinforcing key concepts across multiple subjects.
- Developed strong relationships with students by demonstrating empathy, understanding, and patience in addressing their academic and personal challenges.
- Adapted lessons to differentiate instruction and meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
Third Grade Teacher
Madison Avenue Upper Elementary
08.2003 - 12.2005
- Planned lessons according to district standards to cover requirements and prepare for standardized tests.
- Established and enforced rules of behavior to drive social development and maintain positive interactions.
- Organized engaging field trips and guest speakers to broaden student perspectives and enrich their understanding of curricular topics.
- Assessed student progress by administering tests and evaluating results.
- Established strong parent-teacher relationships to ensure open lines of communication regarding student progress and needs.
Third and Fifth Grade Teacher
Marshall Elementary
08.2000 - 05.2003
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Monitored student progress and adjusted instructional strategies as needed to ensure academic growth.
- Sourced supplies to fill gaps in student activities.
- Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Mississippi
Oxford, MS 05.2000
No Degree - Elementary Education
Meramec Community College
Kirkwood, MOS05.1997
Skills
- Parent-Teacher Communication (USA and abroad)
- Growth Mindset
- Collaborative learning
- Peer Mentoring
- Emotional Support
- Group and individual instruction
- Student needs assessment
- Special Needs Support
- Multitasking and Organization
- Student-Centered Learning
- Community Partnerships
Hospital school experience
* Patient Special Events Committee
* IDEO-participated in the beginning stages of Family Commons thru completion
* Participate in Psychosocial Rounds across all disciplines
* Current and past Grade Band Chair
* New Employee Mentor pilot and "buddy"
* EPASS pilot
* Event Coordinator Fed Ex/St. Jude Golf Classic art party for 5+ years (collaboration between Liaison Office and ALSAC)
* Implemented and continue to lead Kindergarten Graduations since 2008
* Participated in SAKS, AdvancED, and Cognia accreditations
* Co-Volunteer Coordinator 6+ years
* EPIC Super User
* Assist in implementing Strategic Plan
* Virtual learning during COVID
* Professional development within the hospital (Resilience Rounds, Posterior Fossa Society conference)
* Professional development outside of the hospital (APHOES/AECMN for hospital educators, Teach Your Heart Out, Get Your Teach On)
* Knowledge of protocols
*Positive, long standing relationships with medical team across all disciplines
* Co-organizer/teacher for K/1st grade classes
* Ginger-hard conversations???
Timeline
K-5 Teacher
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
01.2006 - Current
Third Grade Teacher
Madison Avenue Upper Elementary
08.2003 - 12.2005
Third and Fifth Grade Teacher
Marshall Elementary
08.2000 - 05.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Mississippi
No Degree - Elementary Education
Meramec Community College