NaShonda L. Bender-Cooke
Raleigh,North Carolina
Summary
Dedicated professional with expertise in virtual reality presentations and presentation designing, specialising in special needs education training and professional development facilitation. Demonstrates a strong understanding of educational policy and inclusive education principles, with proven skills in tutoring techniques and educational advocacy. Offers mentoring expertise and leadership in special educational needs, complemented by emotional intelligence and team leadership capabilities. Committed to advancing educational leadership through self-motivated learning and fostering inclusive environments.
Experienced Special Educational Needs Head Teacher, recognised for fostering inclusive learning environments and innovative teaching strategies. Improved student engagement through tailored educational programmes, resulting in measurable academic progress and enhanced social development. Proven leadership in staff training and curriculum development, driving school-wide improvements in SEN support.
Dedicated leader with motivational and aspirational approach. Skilled in curriculum development and classroom management, complemented by strong interpersonal skills. Committed to fostering inclusive educational environments that support all students' success.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education
Work History
National Workshop Development Presenter
WCPSS
12.2020 - 04.2025
- Attended training sessions regularly to hone presenting skills and learn new techniques.
- Adapted presentation style according to different target audiences, ensuring relevancy and engagement of content.
- Maintained composure under pressure, delivering high-quality presentations regardless of circumstances.
- Practised vocal exercises, improving clarity in delivery.
- Ensured accuracy of information by verifying facts from multiple sources.
- Delivered engaging content by conducting detailed research on topics.
Vice chairperson
Governor Roy Cooper's Teacher Advisor Education Committee
Raleigh, North Carolina
08.2017 - 04.2025
- Facilitated strategic planning by engaging with board members.
- Managed stakeholder relationships, securing trust and collaboration.
- Monitored performance metrics against set objectives.
- Navigated complex negotiations with key stakeholders.
- Fostered a positive work environment with inclusive policies.
- Strengthened community relations through proactive engagement.
- Chaired board meetings, providing strategic insights and updates on company performance.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration to achieve organisational objectives.
Special Education Teacher Department Chair/Interventionist/OCS Teacher
08.1999 - 04.2025
- Organised field trips to enhance experiential learning amongst the students.
- Served as an advocate for children's rights within school setting, ensured equal opportunities for all learners.
- Collaborated with other professionals for holistic development of students with special needs.
- Stimulated curiosity and interest in subjects through use of multi-sensory teaching aids.
- Utilised assistive technology tools in classrooms, enhanced participation and independence among students.
- Maintained comprehensive records of students' performance, identified areas for improvement.
- Managed classroom effectively, creating safe and nurturing environment for learners.
- Ran training sessions and supported all staff in understanding needs of SEN pupils.
Clinical Supervisor
Western Governors University
01.2021 - 04.2024
- Oversaw quality assurance initiatives, resulting in increased adherence to best practice guidelines.
- Fostered a positive learning environment for enhanced student performance.
- Oversaw curriculum planning, ensuring up-to-date academic content.
- Mentored well-qualified job applicants for teaching and support staff roles, boosting programme success.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Special Education
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
Edinboro 08.1994 - 05.1999
Master of Arts - Special Education
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill 07.2008 - 05.2010
Skills
- Virtual reality presentations
- Presentation designing
- Special needs education training
- Professional development facilitation
- Self-Motivated learning
- Educational policy understanding
- Inclusive education principles
- Tutoring techniques
- Educational advocacy
- Mentoring expertise
- Special educational needs expertise
- Educational leadership
- Team Leadership
- Emotional intelligence
Accomplishments
King Community Leader Award (2017)
Distinguished Alumni Award, PennWest University of PA (2023)
Teacher of the Year (2009/2014)
Millbrook High School Service Club (2024)
Allie C Black Award 2018
Accelerating Men Mentoring Teacher of the Year 2018
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Clinical Supervisor
Western Governors University
01.2021 - 04.2024
National Workshop Development Presenter
WCPSS
12.2020 - 04.2025
Vice chairperson
Governor Roy Cooper's Teacher Advisor Education Committee
08.2017 - 04.2025
Master of Arts - Special Education
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
07.2008 - 05.2010
Special Education Teacher Department Chair/Interventionist/OCS Teacher
08.1999 - 04.2025
Bachelor of Arts - Special Education
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
08.1994 - 05.1999
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