Nicole DeSantis
Thornton
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented elementary classroom teacher with extensive experience in 2nd and 3rd grade, as well as Title 1 instruction. Expertise in early literacy development, differentiated instruction, and data-driven teaching strategies drives significant student growth and achievement. A strong commitment to creating structured yet nurturing classroom environments fosters academic success, positive behavior, and enhanced student confidence. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with families and support teams ensures every child thrives in their educational journey.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Classroom Teacher (Grades 2-3)
Danville Elementary School
08.2000 - Current
- Delivered standards-aligned instruction in literacy, math, science, and social studies using whole-group, small-group, and individualized instruction
- Raised early literacy and reading comprehension through systematic phonics, fluency practice, and guided reading groups
- Used OGAP, formative, and summative assessment data to monitor student progress and design targeted instruction
- Implemented differentiated learning plans to support students with learning gaps, IEPs, and emerging literacy skills
- Built a positive, high-expectation classroom culture emphasizing respect, responsibility, and social-emotional learning
- Communicated consistently with families to share student progress, provide strategies for home support, and strengthen engagement
- integrated technology purposefully to enhance engagement and create an interactive, student-centered learning environment.
- Collaborated with special education, Title I, and instructional support staff to ensure students received appropriate interventions
- Mentored and supported new teachers, providing guidance on classroom management, lesson planning, assessment practices, and school procedures to ensure strong instructional practice and smooth onboarding
Title I Reading Interventionist
Pollard Elementary School
08.1999 - 08.2000
- Provided Tier II reading interventions to struggling learners to improve phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, and comprehension
- Used data to identify skill deficits and track student growth
- Supported students in building reading confidence and moving toward grade-level benchmarks
Education
Master of Science - Teaching of English
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NHBachelor of Arts - Child Development - Early Childhood Education
Colby-Sawyer College
New London, NHSkills
- Early Literacy Instruction
- Differentiated & Small-Group Teaching
- Classroom Management & Positive Behavior Support
- MTSS / Tier II Supports
- Data-Driven Instruction
- Curriculum Design
- Family Communication & Collaboration
- Social-Emotional Learning
Certification
- New Hampshire Experienced Educator - Early Childhood
- OGAP (Ongoing Assessment Project) - Additive Trained
- ALICE Certified Instructor (School Safety & Emergency Preparedness)
Timeline
Classroom Teacher (Grades 2-3)
Danville Elementary School
08.2000 - Current
Title I Reading Interventionist
Pollard Elementary School
08.1999 - 08.2000
Master of Science - Teaching of English
University of New Hampshire
Bachelor of Arts - Child Development - Early Childhood Education
Colby-Sawyer College