Molly Whitaker
Chicago,Illinois
Summary
A hard working, BCBA certified, curriculum specialist with extensive experience as an ECE teacher, supervisor, and co-director who is seeking a full time position to support a school district in creating an inclusive and impactful learning environment. A creative and motivated leader adept at utilizing design and planning strengths to accomplish complex projects, assist fellow colleagues to succeed in their roles, and teach new concepts and developmentally appropriate practice strategies.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Academy Co-Director, Curriculum Specialist
Chicago Pediatric Therapy and Wellness Center
08.2023 - Current
- Spearheaded the development and implementation of a modified curriculum, aligning it with educational standards and best practices
- Advised 7 teaching staff to design and refine instructional materials, ensuring a cohesive and effective curriculum delivery
- Oversaw curriculum assessment and evaluation processes to measure effectiveness and make data-driven improvements
- Facilitated professional development sessions to train educators on curriculum implementation, instructional strategies, and assessment techniques
- Managed day-to-day operations as the Academy Co-Director, including administrative tasks, scheduling, and communication with parents and staff
Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA
Chicago Pediatric Therapy and Wellness Center
01.2023 - Current
- Utilized evidence-based behavior analytic strategies to promote positive behavior change and skill acquisition
- Provided ongoing training and supervision to 20+ staff members, ensuring the consistent implementation of behavior intervention plans
- Monitored and analyzed behavior data to track progress, make data-driven decisions, and adjust intervention strategies as needed
- Enhanced client outcomes by implementing individualized behavior intervention plans
- Collaborated with 8 interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for clients with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities
- Conducted thorough functional behavior assessments to identify the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and inform targeted interventions
- Developed data-driven goals and objectives tailored to each client's unique strengths and needs
Kindergarten Teacher: General Education
CPS: McCutcheon Elementary School
08.2021 - 07.2022
- Conducted daily classroom observations, assessments and curriculum implementation in a Kindergarten setting of 28 children as a lead classroom educator
- Differentiated curriculum to address the multimodal learning needs of students
- Collaborated on an interdisciplinary team to implement interventions for ESL students and students with IEPs
- Communicated with families daily to report on student behaviors, progress monitored academic success of students, wrote progress reports, and participated in bi-annual parent-teacher conferences
- Established a caring community of learners and respectful classroom environment with effective behavior management practices
Special Education PreK Teacher: Cluster
CPS: McCutcheon Elementary School
08.2019 - 06.2021
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success
- Collected data for 20 IEPs and participated in annual meetings
- Collaborated with and managed team members and 3 classroom aides
- Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment
Education
Master of Arts - Applied Behavior Analysis
Ball State University
Muncie, IN05.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Illinois State University
Normal, IL05.2017
Skills
- Individualized Education Programs
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Performance Feedback and Supervision
- Parent and Caregiver Training
- Behavior Intervention Planning
- Crisis Management Techniques
- Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams
- Data Collection and Analysis
- Natural Environment Teaching
- Intervention Support
- Case Management
Certification
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA, 1-22-63142
- ESL Endorsement, PreK-3
- Early Childhood Special Education Letter of Approval
Timeline
Academy Co-Director, Curriculum Specialist
Chicago Pediatric Therapy and Wellness Center
08.2023 - Current
Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA
Chicago Pediatric Therapy and Wellness Center
01.2023 - Current
Kindergarten Teacher: General Education
CPS: McCutcheon Elementary School
08.2021 - 07.2022
Special Education PreK Teacher: Cluster
CPS: McCutcheon Elementary School
08.2019 - 06.2021
Master of Arts - Applied Behavior Analysis
Ball State University
Bachelor of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Illinois State University
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst, BCBA, 1-22-63142
- ESL Endorsement, PreK-3
- Early Childhood Special Education Letter of Approval
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