Misti L. Gaffney
Mesquite,TX
Summary
Passionate educator with extensive experience fostering student creativity and engagement through innovative teaching methods and extracurricular programs. Adept at developing dynamic activities that inspire self-expression, teamwork, and confidence. Proven ability to design and implement engaging lessons, manage diverse student groups, and cultivate an inclusive, supportive learning environment. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills, dedicated to helping students explore their creative potential.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Forney ISD
05.2024 - Current
- Serve as SPED reading classroom teacher, fostering literacy and academic growth in students with special education needs
- Act as Inclusion and Resource Educator, providing personalized instruction and support to ensure equitable learning opportunities
- Manage special education caseload as a Case Manager, closely tracking student progress and tailoring interventions to individual needs
- Facilitate ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meetings, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement effective individualized education plans
Special Education - MTI English Teacher Grades 6-8
Terry Middle School
07.2023 - 06.2024
- Implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs, fostering academic progress and socio-emotional development
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to strategize and execute specialized interventions, ensuring equitable access to the curriculum and achieving educational objectives
- Spearheaded the Book Lovers Club, cultivating a passion for reading and literacy among students through engaging activities and book discussions
- Participated actively in Professional Learning Communities (PLC), contributing to collaborative planning and continuous improvement initiatives within the school
4th Grade ELAR/Reading Educator
Rugel Elementary
07.2022 - 06.2023
- Revamped curriculum to incorporate interactive and differentiated instruction methods, resulting in increased student engagement and comprehension
- Mentored and coached fourth-grade students, providing personalized support to enhance reading fluency and comprehension skills
- Led initiatives as a sponsor, organizing extracurricular activities to promote holistic student development and community involvement
4th Grade ELAR/Social Studies Educator
Life School, Oak Cliff Elementary
07.2019 - 06.2022
- Pioneered the NEHS (National Elementary Honor Society) chapter, empowering students to excel academically and serve their community through various outreach projects
- Established and facilitated the GEM-Club for Girls, fostering leadership skills, self-esteem, and academic excellence among female students
- Played an integral role in the Community Committee, collaborating with stakeholders to implement initiatives promoting student well-being and community engagement
3rd Grade General Educator
Uplift Gradus Preparatory
07.2018 - 06.2019
- Utilized innovative teaching methods to create an engaging learning environment, resulting in improved student performance and enthusiasm for learning
- Coordinated and supervised cheerleading activities, promoting teamwork, discipline, and school spirit among students
- Cultivated a dynamic and inclusive classroom environment conducive to academic growth and social development, employing differentiated instruction to meet diverse needs
PAL (Preparation for Adult Living) Facilitator
City Square
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Provided comprehensive support and guidance to foster youth ages 16 and up, preparing them for independent adult living through college, career, medical, and financial preparation programs
- Implemented innovative workshops focusing on financial literacy, employment readiness, and housing navigation, resulting in a 25% increase in participant engagement and retention
- Collaborated with community organizations to develop internship opportunities and vocational training programs, fostering valuable connections for participants' future success
4th/5th Grade Science Educator
Julius Dorsey Elementary (DISD)
07.2013 - 06.2018
- Developed and implemented a hands-on science curriculum, fostering curiosity and critical thinking skills among students
- Served as a Team Lead/Chair, facilitating collaboration and professional development initiatives among fellow educators
- Instructed 5th grade science, reading, language arts, and social studies, promoting interdisciplinary learning and academic excellence
Education
Master of Arts - Educational Administration
Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas 08-2018
Master of Arts - Higher Education And Curriculum
Texas A & M University - Commerce
Commerce, TX08-2009
Bachelor of Science - Health & Education
Texas A & M University - Commerce
Commerce, TX 05-2006
Skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Classroom management
- Individual education plans ieps
- Small group instruction
Certification
SBEC
EC-4 Generalist
EC-12 ESL
4-8 ELAR
EC-12 Health Education
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Forney ISD
05.2024 - Current
Special Education - MTI English Teacher Grades 6-8
Terry Middle School
07.2023 - 06.2024
4th Grade ELAR/Reading Educator
Rugel Elementary
07.2022 - 06.2023
4th Grade ELAR/Social Studies Educator
Life School, Oak Cliff Elementary
07.2019 - 06.2022
3rd Grade General Educator
Uplift Gradus Preparatory
07.2018 - 06.2019
PAL (Preparation for Adult Living) Facilitator
City Square
01.2017 - 01.2019
4th/5th Grade Science Educator
Julius Dorsey Elementary (DISD)
07.2013 - 06.2018
SBEC
EC-4 Generalist
EC-12 ESL
4-8 ELAR
EC-12 Health Education
Master of Arts - Educational Administration
Lamar University
Master of Arts - Higher Education And Curriculum
Texas A & M University - Commerce
Bachelor of Science - Health & Education
Texas A & M University - Commerce
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