Olga Kalashnikova
Naʻālehu,USA
Summary
Compassionate educator and future school counselor with expertise in early childhood education and trauma-informed care. Currently pursuing an M.S. in Counseling Psychology with a focus on School Counseling and Mental Health. Proven experience in implementing SEL curricula and facilitating 'Ohana Engagements, providing comprehensive support in behavioral, academic, and emotional areas. Dedicated to building inclusive learning environments that prioritize connection and cultural relevance.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Teacher
Nā‘ālehu Elementary – Hawai‘i DOE
Nā‘ālehu, HI
09.2023 - 06.2025
- Taught classroom-wide SEL using Choose Love and Al’s Pals curriculum to build emotional regulation, resilience, and healthy peer relationships.
- Developed and implemented targeted accommodations and behavioral interventions, reducing disruptive behaviors by 50% among students with ADHD, trauma, and sensory needs.
- Implemented Teaching Strategies Creative Curriculum and Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL) guidance in the classroom; completed EOEL’s yearlong PD in culturally responsive, developmentally appropriate practices.
- Developed and led monthly two-hour ʻOhana Engagements, creating original materials and hands-on SEL, literacy, and math activities that supported up to 100% family participation.
- Integrated Always Reading digital literacy program in partnership with Olympic Champion Kristi Yamaguchi’s foundation; achieved 100% family survey participation and won 2 out of 2 reading challenges.
- Maintained documentation and collaborated with specialists and families to support inclusive learning; contributed observational data during IEP and SST meetings.
- Mentored through the E Hoʻokahua i ka Pilina program by the Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa (KKP) Complex Area, focused on Nā Hopena A‘o (HĀ) values and relationship-centered teaching.
- Presented at the 2025 KKP Complex Area Teacher Summit on “Tinkering with Purpose: Learning SEL Skills through STEAM”, highlighting creative, project-based SEL integration.
- Built a trauma-informed, culturally inclusive classroom through daily check-ins, behavior reinforcement strategies, and open communication with students and families.
Education
Master of Science - Counseling Psychology: School Counseling
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI05.2026
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA05.2010
Skills
- SEL Instruction – emotional literacy and conflict resolution
- Behavior Support – positive reinforcement and trauma-informed behavior strategies
- Collaboration with families, SPED/504 teams, and school staff
- 'Ohana Engagements – workshop design and parent engagement facilitation
- Developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive practices
- Whole-child support grounded in holistic education approach and HĀ-based values
Certification
- School Counselor License – In Progress (Praxis 5422: School Counselor Exam scheduled for June 25, 2025; results available July 11, 2025)
- Hawai‘i Substitute Teaching License – Active
- Teaching Strategies GOLD – Certified Assessor
- Choose Love & Al’s Pals SEL Curricula – Trained
- Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL) PDs – Culturally Responsive & Developmentally Appropriate Practices
- Restorative Practices – Self-guided training in Heartfulness, Mindfulness, Yoga
- University of California, Berkeley Theater for Social Change (social justice through interactive arts) - Certificate
Volunteer Experience
Nā‘ālehu Elementary School, SEL Facilitator & Advocate, Nā‘ālehu, 2023 - 2025
- Led SEL workshops during ‘Ohana Engagements for caregivers and students
- Shared strategies for accommodations for students with 504/SPED needs
- Supported school Drama Club; integrated expressive arts into student well-being
Languages
English – Native/Bilingual, Russian – Native/Bilingual
Timeline
Teacher
Nā‘ālehu Elementary – Hawai‘i DOE
09.2023 - 06.2025
Master of Science - Counseling Psychology: School Counseling
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of California, Berkeley
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