Phyllis Twitchell

Summary

Experienced special education and music teacher skilled in differentiated instruction, classroom management, and fostering strong relationships. Committed to enhancing student engagement and success through tailored educational strategies.

Versatile Special Education Teacher with focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of hands-on lessons, catering to diverse learning abilities. Proficient in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement.

Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.

Experienced with music instruction, focusing on developing students' technical skills and musical understanding. Utilizes innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students. Track record of creating positive, productive learning environments.

Thorough team contributor with strong organizational capabilities. Experienced in handling numerous projects at once while ensuring accuracy. Effective at prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.

Overview

15

years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Teacher/Music Teacher

Filer School District

Filer, ID

09.2010 - 09.2025

Developed individualized education plans (IEPs) to address diverse learning needs of students.
Implemented evidence-based instructional strategies to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess student progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
Trained and mentored new special education staff on effective classroom management techniques.
Established positive relationships with families to foster communication and support student success.
Monitored behavioral interventions, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across educational settings.
Advocated for resources and support services aligned with students' individual educational goals.
Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
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.
Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
Instructed students with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Led activities that developed students' physical, emotional, and social growth.
Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
Enhanced students'' communication skills by implementing group activities and collaborative projects.
Streamlined classroom processes by integrating technology tools such as interactive whiteboards and assistive devices designed for students with disabilities.
Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices in special education instruction and classroom management techniques.
Encouraged students to take ownership of learning by providing choices.
Organized field trips and community-based experiences that enriched students'' understanding of real-world applications for their skills.
Boosted student engagement in mathematics by introducing problem-solving activities that connected concepts to real-world situations.
Guided students through transition planning processes, preparing them for post-secondary education and employment opportunities.
Developed and executed behavioral intervention plans, leading to decrease in disruptive behaviors and increase in classroom participation.
Encouraged parent and guardian involvement in educational process, enhancing home-school connection and supporting student achievement.
Promoted self-advocacy and independence in students with disabilities by teaching self-management and decision-making skills.
Organized and led professional development sessions for colleagues on inclusive education strategies, improving school-wide support for students with disabilities.
Improved reading comprehension among students with learning disabilities by designing and delivering targeted literacy activities.
Enhanced communication skills in non-verbal students through integration of alternative and augmentative communication systems.
Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet varied needs of students, enhancing educational accessibility.
Reduced feelings of isolation among students with special needs by implementing inclusive classroom practices.
Integrated social skills training into curriculum, facilitating improved peer interactions and social integration.
Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive educational and emotional support for students.
Created culturally responsive classroom environment, acknowledging and celebrating diversity among students.
Facilitated small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
Collaborated with other educators to develop instructional strategies.
Monitored student performance to evaluate effectiveness of instructional strategies.
Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
Conducted assessments of students to determine individual needs.
Planned daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
Applied proven strategies to improve students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills.
Mentored new teachers on student progress monitoring and legal document preparation.
Attended professional development training to educate faculty and staff on laws and regulations governing special education.
Promoted memory, cognition and language development with hands-on activities and individualized instruction.
Developed comprehensive music curriculum aligned with state standards.
Facilitated engaging choir and band rehearsals, enhancing student participation.
Implemented innovative teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles.
Mentored student musicians in performance techniques and musical theory.
Organized school-wide music events, fostering community engagement and appreciation for the arts.
Collaborated with faculty to integrate music education into interdisciplinary projects.
Assessed student progress through regular evaluations, ensuring continuous improvement in skills.
Organized successful concerts and recitals, showcasing students'' talents and hard work.
Familiarized students with basic concepts of music such as notes, tempo, symphony, beats, compositions, and chords.
Incorporated creative activities into lessons to engage students and spark interest in music.
Enhanced students'' understanding of music theory through engaging activities and exercises.
Mentored students in various ensembles, boosting their confidence and performance skills.
Fostered creativity by encouraging improvisation, composition, and arrangement within the classroom setting.
Motivated students to practice consistently through goal-setting, tracking progress, and providing constructive feedback.
Improved student musicianship by incorporating a variety of teaching methods and techniques.
Mentored students of different ages and backgrounds in music theory, composition and performance.
Established positive relationships with parents and guardians, promoting open communication and collaboration for student success.
Contributed to school-wide events such as musicals or talent shows by providing expertise in rehearsals and performances.
Evaluated student progress regularly through formal assessments, adjusting instruction as needed for continual improvement.
Planned and executed targeted lesson plans to instruct on music theory, music history, and performance etiquette.
Assessed student performance and provided constructive feedback to guide progress.
Developed individualized lesson plans for diverse students, resulting in increased motivation and progress.
Mentored struggling students with individualized approach to enhance learning.
Implemented effective classroom management strategies, creating an inclusive environment conducive to learning.
Taught curriculum enhanced lesson plans to educate classroom students about fundamentals and history of music.
Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary units that connected music with other subjects.
Assisted in the selection and acquisition of instruments, sheet music, and equipment to support the music program''s growth.
Encouraged social interaction and collaboration among students to foster camaraderie and teamwork.
Tailored instruction to meet individual student needs and cultivated inclusive learning environment.
Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in music education, enriching both teaching skills and curriculum offerings.
Utilized current technology and interactive teaching methods to enhance student engagement.
Improved student performance in local and state music competitions by providing tailored coaching sessions.
Adapted teaching methods to suit virtual learning environments, ensuring continuity of music education during remote learning periods.
Developed students' skills in reading music through innovative teaching techniques.
Guided students in composing their original pieces, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Facilitated student-led performances, empowering them to take ownership of their musical growth.
Enhanced school's music library by securing grants for new resources, including instruments and sheet music.
Pioneered summer music camp, offering additional learning opportunities and strengthening community's engagement with arts.
Increased student enrollment in music classes by promoting program through engaging school assemblies and community events.
Conducted one-on-one sessions to address individual student needs, significantly improving their musical proficiency.
Cultivated love for music in children of all ages with diverse, interactive lessons.
Encouraged creative expression among students by introducing them to wide range of musical genres and instruments.
Advocated for importance of music education within school board, leading to increased funding and support for music programs.
Collaborated with colleagues to integrate music into cross-curricular activities, enriching overall educational experience.
Fostered positive and inclusive classroom environment, enabling students to confidently express their musical talents.
Orchestrated annual school concerts to showcase student achievements, enhancing school's reputation in community.
Enhanced students' understanding of music theory by creating and implementing engaging curriculum materials.
Implemented peer mentoring program in music classes, promoting leadership skills and teamwork among students.
Streamlined lesson planning and resource allocation by utilizing music education software, increasing instructional time.
Organized workshops with professional musicians to provide students with real-world insights into music industry.
Evaluated student progress through regular assessments, providing constructive feedback to support their development.
Supervised students during rehearsals to provide direction to students during practice sessions.
Used technology in classrooms to integrate technology and multimedia tools into art lessons and enhance student learning.
Fostered love for art and learning to inspire students to pursue passions and interests.
Evaluated and graded students' class work, performances, projects, assignments and papers.
Provided feedback and grades to provide regular feedback on student progress and assigned grades based on performance.
Communicated with parents to maintain regular communication about student progress and any concerns.
Planned and delivered lessons to teach classes in arts to engage and educate students.
Held afterschool meetings and rehearsals in preparation for shows.
Adapted instruction to meet individual student needs to differentiate instruction to meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
Scheduled shows and performances in accordance with school calendar.
Incorporated student interests and experiences to make learning relevant and meaningful.
Attended concerts and performances to support students and arts community.
Managed classroom behavior to establish and maintain clear classroom behavior and discipline expectations.
Attended department meetings and collaborated with other fine arts teachers.
Collaborated with community arts organizations to bring real-world experiences into classrooms and provide students with opportunities for learning and growth.
Assessed student learning to evaluate student learning and progress through tests, performances and portfolios.
Gathered display materials and distributed programs for shows and performances.
Sponsored student fine arts clubs, attending club meetings and events.
Provided extra help and support to offer additional support to struggling students and encourage success in art subjects.

Drama Director

Filer School District

Filer, ID

09.2010 - 08.2020

Directed and produced annual school plays, enhancing student engagement and creativity.
Collaborated with faculty to integrate drama curriculum into broader educational programs.
Mentored students in acting techniques, fostering confidence and performance skills.
Developed audition processes and casting strategies for diverse productions.
Coordinated technical aspects of performances, including lighting, sound, and set design.
Organized workshops and training sessions to enhance staff and student involvement in drama initiatives.
Evaluated student performances, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
Cultivated partnerships with local theater groups to expand resources and opportunities for students.
Evaluated post-production feedback from audiences, actors, and crew to continuously improve future productions.
Oversaw costume design process, ensuring accuracy in historical context while adhering to budget constraints.
Increased audience attendance by implementing innovative marketing strategies and advertising campaigns.
Enhanced performers'' skills through personalized coaching and constructive feedback during rehearsals.
Strengthened communication between technical crew and performers, resulting in seamless transitions during live performances.
Created visually striking stage designs by working closely with set designers and lighting technicians.
Directed successful theatrical productions by collaborating with writers, actors, and designers to create engaging performances.
Developed strong relationships within the theater community, leading to increased collaboration opportunities for future projects.
Ensured safety standards were met at all times during both rehearsals and performances.
Utilized social media platforms effectively to promote upcoming shows and increase online engagement from audiences.
Managed production budgets effectively, ensuring adequate allocation for set design, costumes, and props.
Maintained a positive rehearsal environment by addressing conflicts promptly and fostering open communication among team members.
Provided mentorship opportunities for aspiring directors through internships or assistant director positions.
Championed diversity and inclusion initiatives within the theater company by actively seeking out underrepresented talent.
Collaborated with playwrights to refine scripts, enhancing storyline clarity and character development.
Implemented effective time management strategies during rehearsals to ensure smooth progress of production timelines.
Organized casting auditions efficiently, selecting talented actors who fit well into ensemble dynamics.
Coached actors on appropriate vocal projection techniques, improving overall audio quality during performances.
Remained highly composed and calm in very fast-paced, stressful and constantly changing environments to provide optimal leadership and achieve desired results.
Remained composed and highly professional in fast-paced and constantly changing environment, effectively handling challenging situations and difficult individuals to achieve objectives.
Presented production ideas and determined creative scenarios for production and delivery.
Reviewed scripts and made changes to improve wording, flow or interest levels, consistently producing highly successful shows.
Identified and approved equipment and elements required for productions.
Found appropriate stories and ideas for programming to engage target audiences and hook advertisers.
Developed project budgets and managed production costs.
Observed tight deadlines and strict budgetary controls to avoid waste and streamline costs.
Directed work of lighting and sound crews to coordinate efficient production operations.
Reviewed scripts to determine most appropriate methods to use for directing both actors and crew members.
Alleviated issues between actors on set to keep projects on track and avoid delays or budget overages.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Lewis-Clark State College, Lewiston, ID

12-2016

Extracurricular Activities: Utah State University Marching and Pep Bands
Drama Director Filer School District
Pep Band and Band Director - Richfield Idaho School District

***Degree includes All Subjects - K - 8 and Exceptional Child Generalist - K - 12

Music Associates Equivalent Degree from Utah State University

Skills

Differentiated Instruction
Classroom Management
Individual Education Plans IEP's
Small Group Instruction
Relationship Building
Lesson planning
Excellent Communication
Data Management

Elementary Education
Behavior Intervention Plans
Trained in CPI
Group and Individual Instruction
Parent Communication
IEP and BIP implementation
Transition planning

Accomplishments

Trained fellow teachers on the procedures for completing Individual Education Plans.
Lead Special Education Teacher at High School and Intermediate School Levels.
Led the High School Special Education Program that helped students with special needs in their planning to attend college.
Started a music program at a small school by creating a pep band and did research to restart using the school song for sports events.
Started a drama club by writing and directing a play. Directed subsequent plays and musicals for 10 years. The school now has a full time drama classroom teacher.
Taught High School Music, while taking music courses.

Interests

Participate in local theater productions, enhancing my public speaking and teamwork skills
Music
Dance
Acting and Theater
Embracing outdoor adventures such as camping and hiking
Avid Reader
I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
Outdoor Recreation
Swimming
Traveling

Timeline

Special Education Teacher/Music Teacher - Filer School District

09.2010 - 09.2025

Drama Director - Filer School District

09.2010 - 08.2020

Lewis-Clark State College - Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education

Summary

Overview

Work History

Special Education Teacher/Music Teacher

Drama Director

Education

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Skills

Accomplishments

Interests

Timeline

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