Dynamic educator specializing in special education and language instruction, with notable experience at Daniel Hale Williams Prep School of Medicine. Proven track record in curriculum development and enhancing multicultural sensitivity, leading to increased student engagement and academic success. Strong collaboration skills with faculty and proficiency in educational technology have contributed to significant improvements in learning outcomes. Career aspirations focus on driving innovative teaching practices that foster inclusive learning environments.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
SpEd Paraprofessional/Teacher in Social Science
Daniel Hale Williams Prep School of Medicine
Chicago, IL
09.2006 - Current
Assisted students with disabilities in completing daily activities and assignments.
Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
Collaborated with teachers to develop personalized, successful learning strategies.
Attended IEP meetings to discuss student progress and plan future goals.
Provided one-on-one support to students with special education needs.
Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
Facilitated small group instruction for students who required additional assistance with course material.
Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's progress.
Motivated students using feedback and encouragement.
Managed a class of special education students in the absence of the lead teacher.
Worked with teachers to develop a customized classroom environment for students' needs.
Prepared handouts, study materials, and other teaching aids.
Observed student performance to identify areas of strength or weakness within a subject area or task level.
Designed and implemented strategies for differentiated instruction to meet the needs of students with varying abilities and learning styles.
Facilitated student success and academic growth new curriculum implementation.
Built life-long learning skills and strong study habits in students to help each prepare for higher-level education.
Facilitated classroom debates and discussions to encourage critical thinking and student engagement with current events and historical perspectives.
Conducted class discussions on current events related to Social Studies topics.
Coordinated with the school library and media center to provide resources and materials supporting the social studies curriculum.
Spanish Teacher
Austin Community High School
Chicago, IL
09.2003 - 06.2006
Developed class learning plans to meet district and statement requirements for instruction.
Compiled, administered, and graded examinations and other assigned work.
Organized materials for daily instruction in compliance with national academic standards.
Organized and led interactive activities such as games, role-playing exercises, and other engaging educational materials.
Conducted quarterly assessments to determine progress and establish updated learning goals.
Prepared students for standardized language proficiency tests.
Developed language resources to support and supplement instructional activities.
Differentiated instruction for students with a wide range of skill and interest levels.
Planned and updated curricula and lesson plans to continuously improve subject coverage.
Spanish Teacher
Holy Rosary Catholic Elementary School
Duluth, MN
09.1996 - 07.1999
Led professional learning communities within the school to share best practices in language education.
Assessed student classroom performance to report on progress.
Facilitated small group conversations between English-speaking and Spanish-speaking students to promote communication across languages.
Maintained school-wide culture of respect and actively used positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) disciplinary methods.
Developed and implemented a Spanish language curriculum to teach students grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and conversational skills.
Advised parents on supporting their children's language development at home.
Fostered a culture of respect and curiosity for diverse cultures and languages.
High School Social Studies Teacher
Kelvyn Park High School
Chicago, IL
09.1994 - 06.1996
Encouraged students to explore different perspectives on global issues from past eras.
Facilitated extra-curricular activities such as clubs, events and community service initiatives.
Cultivated a collaborative and innovative learning environment to meet each student's unique educational needs.
Built life-long learning skills and strong study habits in students to help each prepare for higher-level education.
Facilitated student-led research projects focusing on particular aspects of world history, such as religion or culture.
Collaborated with colleagues to plan field trips related to historical sites or events.
Integrated current events into lessons to illustrate how they relate to past developments in world history.
Developed research assignments to encourage engagement through the exploration of history.
Created and used rubrics to assess student learning.
Education
Learning Behavior Specialist - Special Education
St Francis University
Joliet, IL
07-2022
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Harold Washington College
Chicago
06-1994
Bachelor of Arts - History/Education
Loyola University of Chicago
Chicago, IL
05-1994
Some College (No Degree) - American History
Adams State University
Alamosa, CO
Skills
Adaptive learning
Multicultural sensitivity
Life skills training
Sensory integration
Motor skills development
Communication techniques
Social skills development
Instructional support
Patience and empathy
Transition planning
Curriculum adaptation
Literacy support
Faculty collaboration
Analytical skills
Educational technology
Curriculum development
Languages
Spanish
Professional
Accomplishments
Saragossa Foundation Excellence Award
Serendipity Award
Certification
Professional Educator License
Endorsements in Anthropology, History, Language Arts, World Language, US History, World History, Learning Behavior Specialist, Secondary Education,
Medical Student at Internal Medicine at Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides CarrionMedical Student at Internal Medicine at Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrion