Monica Baier
Leaf River,IL
Summary
Student-focused educator and coach dedicated to inspiring learners both in the classroom and on the field by building strong character, leadership skills, and a lifelong love of learning and relationship building. I am committed to collaborating with staff and families to foster student growth. Experienced in IEP development, differentiated instruction, and fostering inclusive learning environments that promotes independence, confidence, and social-emotional development. I am seeking this position, as a Special Education Teacher, to support diverse learners by developing and implementing individualized instruction, positive behavior strategies, and empowering students to reach their full potential while contributing to a collaborative and growth-focused school community.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Early Childhood Curriculum Coach
Regional Office of Education #8
Freeport, IL
10.2022 - Current
- Provide ongoing support to classroom education staff in creating lesson plans that are appropriate to the curriculum and developmentally appropriate.
- Review lesson plans and provide teachers with timely feedback and recommendations.
- Collaborate with classroom education staff to develop individual professional development plans for each staff member.
- Conduct regular classroom observations.
- Model lessons and interactions with teachers, aides, and students.
- Participate and present in professional development opportunities, including workshops and conferences, to bring new and emerging best practices into the program.
- Identify and create resources and materials that will support instructional quality and integrate them into program practices.
- Research and provide teaching staff with resources to support students and families with developmental information and/or referrals.
Blended Classroom Preschool Teacher
Freeport School District
Freeport
08.2007 - 08.2009
- Created lesson plans and activities to meet the needs of typically developing children as well as providing appropriate experiences for children with special needs.
- Developed instructional units about concepts and skills related to: literacy, language, mathematics, science, the arts, physical growth, cognitive skills, and social-emotional milestones.
- Taught students in small group, large group and individualized settings which promote independence, problem solving, cooperative learning and self-confidence.
- Produced Individualized Education Plans and worked with families.
- Managed Individualized Education Plan meetings and parent/teacher conferences.
- Met regularly with families to discuss individualized learning progress.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to bring new and emerging practices and methods in the field.
- Scaffolded and differentiated instruction to meet varying academic levels, learning styles, and individual needs.
Self-Contained Preschool Teacher
Northwest Special Education
08.2005 - 08.2007
- Created and taught engaging lesson activities for individualized plans.
- Modified teaching strategies and techniques to meet the needs of all abilities.
- Implemented classroom management strategies.
- Created and implemented Individualized Education Plan goals and objectives.
- Managed Individualized Education Plan meetings and parent/teacher conferences.
- Daily two-way communication with families and given weekly newsletters.
- Scaffolded and differentiated instruction to meet varying academic levels, learning styles, and individual needs.
Individual Aide for 2 Preschool-Aged Students
Northwest Special Education
01.2005 - 08.2007
- Worked individually with a student on cognitive, fine motor, gross motor, and independent skills.
- Collaborated with a classroom teacher on academic skills.
- Assisted individual students with learning needs.
Education
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - EARLY CHILDHOOD/SPECIAL EDUCATION
CLARKE UNIVERSITY
Dubuque, IA01-2004
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - ELEMETARY EDUCATION
CLARKE UNIVERSITY
Dubuque, IA01-2004
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS -
HIGHLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Freeport, IL01-2002
Skills
- Passion for children
- Organizational skills
- Creative thinking
- Communication skills
- Active listener
- Strong teamwork
- Collaborative skills
- Adaptability
- Flexibility
- Patience
- Utmost dedication
- Positivity
- Eager to learn and grow
- Humility
Volunteer Experience
- Byron School District, 08/01/17, 12/31/19, Classroom volunteer, Make copies, assist with student homework/activities and assess students reading fluency
- St. John's Lutheran Church, 01/01/04, 12/31/12, Youth & Family Coordinator, Taught Vacation Bible School and Sunday School, Leader of Christian Education Committee, Served on Church Council, Confirmation Mentor, Youth Group Leader - Junior High & High School students
- St. John's Lutheran Church, 01/01/15, 12/31/22, Youth & Family Coordinator, Taught Vacation Bible School and Sunday School, Leader of Christian Education Committee, Served on Church Council, Confirmation Mentor, Youth Group Leader - Junior High & High School students
Timeline
Early Childhood Curriculum Coach
Regional Office of Education #8
10.2022 - Current
Blended Classroom Preschool Teacher
Freeport School District
08.2007 - 08.2009
Self-Contained Preschool Teacher
Northwest Special Education
08.2005 - 08.2007
Individual Aide for 2 Preschool-Aged Students
Northwest Special Education
01.2005 - 08.2007
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - EARLY CHILDHOOD/SPECIAL EDUCATION
CLARKE UNIVERSITY
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - ELEMETARY EDUCATION
CLARKE UNIVERSITY
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS -
HIGHLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE