Nicole Willis
Orland Park,IL
Summary
Dynamic paraprofessional with a strong work ethic and proven reliability at District 135. Expert in behavior modification and instructional support, successfully enhancing student engagement and academic performance. Collaborated effectively with teachers to implement Individualized Education Plans, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for neurodiverse students.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Paraprofessional
District 135
Orland Park, Illinois
12.2016 - Current
- Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
- Assisted neurodiverse students with classwork and activity preparation.
- Provided training sessions for other paraprofessionals on topics related to SpEd services.
- Consulted with teachers regarding student progress, IEP adjustments and classroom needs.
- Communicated affirmatively and promoted positive attitudes with every student.
- Improved behavior with modification and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Facilitated small group instruction for students who required additional assistance with course material.
- Prepared handouts, study materials and other teaching aids.
- Monitored playgrounds during recess periods to ensure safety standards were met.
- Supervised classrooms of special education students during lunch and recess periods.
- Organized materials needed for classroom lessons prior to instruction beginning.
- Implemented positive reinforcement techniques when working with challenging behaviors.
- Provided one-on-one support to students with special education needs.
- Participated in staff development activities related to SpEd topics.
- Supported special education teachers by providing feedback on lesson plans, objectives, and modifications.
Extended School Year
Orland District 135
Orland Park, USA
07.2018 - 08.2021
- Serving as a paraprofessional at various schools, assisting students with reading and math.
- Supported students throughout academic instruction and assignments.
- Ensured that all safety regulations were followed in the classroom environment.
- Collaborated with special education staff to develop Individualized Education Plans.
- Assisted children at stations during small-group learning periods.
- Contributed to a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Supervisor and Customer Service
Kohl's Department Stores
Orland Park, USA
04.2014 - 11.2018
- Oversee cashiers and customer service issues
- Welcomed customers, offering assistance to help find store items.
- Assisted with customer requests and answered questions to improve satisfaction.
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
Substitute Paraprofessional
Orland District 135
Orland Park, USA
11.2016 - 08.2018
- Monitored classroom to maintain a safe and productive learning environment.
- Provided one-on-one support to students struggling with specific subjects or concepts.
- Supported the implementation of Individual Education Plans.
- Supported students with special needs by adapting teaching methods and instructional materials.
- Kept students safe in classroom and outside environments.
Lead role at Liberty School
Quest Food Management Services
Orland Park, USA
08.2014 - 12.2017
- Managed the cafeteria at Liberty School with responsibilities that include food ordering, inventory, food prep and service
- Also, responsible for cashier duties and accounting relating to children and staff
Director- Bolingbrook
Knowledge Universe
Bolingbrook, USA
10.2008 - 03.2013
- Responsible for over 150 full time students and their families
- Planned and organized summer and after school activities
- Partnered with the community on special events including cancer walk, educational events and more
- Successfully managed and operated an office with responsibilities that included day to day operations, payroll, account receivables, deposits, marketing, staffing, customer service, human resources, and scheduling
- Managed a staff of over 20 employees
- NAC accreditation is one of the highest accreditations that a child care center can achieve
- Successfully went through application and review process, earning this accreditation for the center after the first review in September 2012
- Earned many awards for high levels of management
- These awards focused on high levels of financial achievement and results
Director- Naperville
Knowledge Universe
Naperville, USA
11.2000 - 10.2008
Teacher
Knowledge Universe
07.1999 - 11.2000
- Responsible for the well-being of the students, lesson plans, classroom environment, planning activities, and parent communications
- Accepted into MIT, Management in Training, after only a few months of employment
Child Care Center of LaGrange
LaGrange
03.1998 - 07.1999
- Responsible for the well-being of the students lesson plans, classroom environment, planning activities, and parent communications
Part time loader and sorter
United Parcel Service
Bedford Park, USA
11.1995 - 08.1998
- Became team leader, with additional responsibilities and assisted the manager
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Early Childhood
Moraine Valley Community College
Palos Hills, IL05-1998
Skills
- Instructional support
- Behavior modification
- Classroom management
- Collaboration with teachers
- Small group support and assistance
- Reliability
- Parent communication
- Strong work ethic and dependable
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Extended School Year
Orland District 135
07.2018 - 08.2021
Paraprofessional
District 135
12.2016 - Current
Substitute Paraprofessional
Orland District 135
11.2016 - 08.2018
Lead role at Liberty School
Quest Food Management Services
08.2014 - 12.2017
Supervisor and Customer Service
Kohl's Department Stores
04.2014 - 11.2018
Director- Bolingbrook
Knowledge Universe
10.2008 - 03.2013
Director- Naperville
Knowledge Universe
11.2000 - 10.2008
Teacher
Knowledge Universe
07.1999 - 11.2000
Child Care Center of LaGrange
03.1998 - 07.1999
Part time loader and sorter
United Parcel Service
11.1995 - 08.1998
Associate of Applied Science - Early Childhood
Moraine Valley Community College
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