Rachel Smith
Georgetown,KY
Summary
Special education teacher with proven track record of fostering inclusive learning environments and implementing effective instructional strategies. Strong emphasis on team collaboration and achieving positive educational outcomes, adaptable to changing classroom dynamics. Skilled in behavior management, curriculum development, and student advocacy, bringing reliability and flexibility to role.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
MSD Teacher at Edythe J. Hayes Middle School
Fayette County Public Schools
08.2023 - Current
- Managed a classroom of 5-8 students with a range of severe disabilities, 3-4 paraprofessionals, and 4-5 student helpers each class period.
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- 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.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
- Organized field trips and community-based experiences that enriched students'' understanding of real-world applications for their skills.
MSD Teacher at Lexington Traditional Magnet School
Fayette County Public Schools
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- 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 a range of neurodiverse students.
- Streamlined classroom processes by integrating technology tools such as interactive whiteboards and assistive devices designed for students with disabilities.
- Encouraged parent and guardian involvement in the educational process, enhancing home-school connection and supporting student achievement.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child's educational journey.
MSD Teacher at Lakeridge Jr. High School
Alpine School District
01.2020 - 06.2021
- Managed a classroom of 8-10 students with a range of severe disabilities, 4-5 paraprofessionals, and 8-10 student helpers each class period.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
- Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to a range of neurodiverse students.
- Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with the master schedule.
- Created a culturally responsive classroom environment, acknowledging and celebrating diversity among students.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Special Education Severe To Profound Disabilities
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT12-2019
High School Diploma -
George Rogers Clark High School
Winchester, KY05-2012
Skills
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
- Critical thinking
- Lesson planning
- Parent-teacher communication
- Classroom technology
- Student records management
- Student engagement
Certification
- Commonwealth of Kentucky Certificate for Teaching Exceptional Children - Moderate and Severe Disabilities, Grades K-12
Timeline
MSD Teacher at Edythe J. Hayes Middle School
Fayette County Public Schools
08.2023 - Current
MSD Teacher at Lexington Traditional Magnet School
Fayette County Public Schools
08.2022 - 06.2023
MSD Teacher at Lakeridge Jr. High School
Alpine School District
01.2020 - 06.2021
Bachelor of Science - Special Education Severe To Profound Disabilities
Brigham Young University
High School Diploma -
George Rogers Clark High School