Nicholas Matsen
Iowa City,IA
Summary
Professional educator skilled in creating dynamic, inclusive classroom experiences that drive student success. Adept at leveraging diverse instructional strategies to meet varied learning needs, ensuring comprehensive understanding of material. Known for collaborative approach and adaptability in ever-evolving educational settings, with focus on critical thinking and communication.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
West High School
08.2023 - Current
- Active participant collaborative teams including Dept CT, Inclusion, and Behavior
- Developed and led Professional Development in the areas of Accommodations, modifications, and inclusion
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
Special Education Teacher
Des Moines Public Schools
08.2021 - 06.2023
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
Classroom Teacher
Southeast Polk Junior High
07.2014 - 07.2019
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and refining instructional techniques accordingly.
- Established clear expectations for behavior and classroom management, creating a respectful and productive learning atmosphere.
- Assessed student progress using various assessment tools, adjusting instruction as needed to address identified areas of need.
- Planned lessons, activities and trips to cover all required course material.
- Served as a team leader for grade-level initiatives, coordinating efforts among faculty members to achieve shared goals related to curriculum and instruction improvement.
- Mentored new teachers entering the profession and provided constructive feedback on their teaching methods, promoting growth within the school community.
Special Education Teacher
Southeast Polk Senior High
03.2006 - 06.2014
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
- Partnered with standard education teachers from across academic departments.
Education
Master of Arts -
Morningside College
05.2010
Bachelor of Science -
Upper Iowa University
05.2008
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Northern Iowa
12.2002
Skills
- Public Speaking
- Project Management
- Relationship Building
- Strong Multi-tasker
- Lifelong Learner
- Certified Google Trainer
- Classroom management
- Parent-teacher communication
- Differentiated instruction
- Collaborative teamwork
- Formative assessment
- School improvement
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
West High School
08.2023 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Des Moines Public Schools
08.2021 - 06.2023
Classroom Teacher
Southeast Polk Junior High
07.2014 - 07.2019
Special Education Teacher
Southeast Polk Senior High
03.2006 - 06.2014
Bachelor of Science -
Upper Iowa University
Master of Arts -
Morningside College
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Northern Iowa
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