Michelle Barfield
Gray,GA
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate teacher skilled at addressing each student's unique needs and creating effective lesson plans to accommodate these needs. Provides appropriate and individualized instruction to build foundations for lifelong learning. Committed to fostering a positive learning environment that supports diverse student needs. Focused on enhancing student engagement, learning outcomes, and effective parent-teacher communication.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Self-Contained Special Education Teacher
Georgia Academy for the Blind
Macon, GA
09.2013 - Current
- Developed individualized education plans to meet diverse student needs.
- Implemented adaptive teaching strategies to enhance learning outcomes for visually impaired students.
- Trained paraprofessionals on effective instructional techniques and classroom management.
- Utilized assistive technology tools to facilitate communication and engagement in lessons.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Advocated for needs of the students with disabilities.
Homeschool Teacher
Myself
Gray, GA
09.2004 - 05.2013
- Developed customized lesson plans tailored to individual learning styles and academic goals.
- Facilitated engaging and interactive learning experiences across various subjects.
- Assessed student progress regularly and adjusted instructional strategies accordingly.
- Implemented effective classroom management techniques to foster a positive learning environment.
- Organized field trips and extracurricular activities to enrich educational experiences.
- Managed homeschool schedules effectively, balancing extracurricular activities with academic requirements for well-rounded development.
- Organized hands-on instructional activities to supplement textbook instruction to engage and motivate students.
Elementary School Teacher
Jones County Board Of Education, "Old" Gray Elementary
Gray, GA
09.1997 - 06.2004
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to enhance student learning experiences.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment that promoted student participation and collaboration.
- Utilized various teaching methods and technologies to accommodate diverse learning styles.
- Assessed student progress through regular evaluations, providing feedback for improvement.
- Participated in professional development workshops to refine instructional techniques and stay current with educational trends.
- Created lesson plans to correlate with state curriculum standards and devised educational programs to meet educational objectives.
- Evaluated and assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and adapting teaching methods accordingly.
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
- Established a positive classroom environment through effective classroom management strategies, fostering respect and cooperation among students.
- Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
- Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, enhancing students'' understanding of various subjects.
Education
Master of Science - Early Childhood Education
Georgia College And State University
Milledgeville, GA1998
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, GA1996
Skills
- Positive reinforcement
- Data Collection
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- IEP implementation
- Classroom management
Accomplishments
2022 Teacher of the Year
Served on the New ELA Georgia Standards Committee
Represented GAB in adopting new Reading Curriculum, Wonders
Served on the PBIS committee for 8 years
Served on the BST committee for 5 years (Better Seeking Team)
Certification
Teacher of Visually Impaired
Gifted Endorsement
Marcus-Crisis Training Certified
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Self-Contained Special Education Teacher
Georgia Academy for the Blind
09.2013 - Current
Homeschool Teacher
Myself
09.2004 - 05.2013
Elementary School Teacher
Jones County Board Of Education, "Old" Gray Elementary
09.1997 - 06.2004
Master of Science - Early Childhood Education
Georgia College And State University
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of North Georgia
2022 Teacher of the Year
Being named Teacher of the Year at Georgia Academy for the Blind is an honor that fills me with deep gratitude and pride. Each day, I’ve had the privilege of guiding students who navigate the world with extraordinary resilience, creativity, and determination. Their curiosity pushes me to teach with greater intention, adapt with compassion, and celebrate every breakthrough—big or small. This recognition reflects not just my work, but the incredible spirit of the students who inspire me to be better every single day.