Richard D. Smiles
Danbury
Summary
Passionate educator and mentor dedicated to empowering the next generation to live with purpose, resilience, and fulfillment. Skilled in teaching, coaching, and guiding individuals to develop essential life skills, sound decision-making, and a growth-oriented mindset. Committed to helping people recognize their potential, build confidence, and create a meaningful future while inspiring them to positively impact their communities and the world.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Paraprofessional
ROGERS PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL
Danbury
11.2025 - Current
- Assist teachers in supporting students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in classroom and school settings
- Provide one-on-one or small group academic and behavioral support
- Implemented behavior intervention plans to enhance student engagement and progress
- Supported students in developing communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation skills for improved daily functioning
- Assisted in creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment by organizing resources and facilitating activities
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and parents to support student success
- Maintain professionalism, patience, and confidentiality while working with students and families
Barber Instructor/Mentor
WESTCHESTER BARBER ACADEMY
Mount Vernon
07.2020 - Current
- Instructed 200+ students annually across schools, adult programs, and juvenile facilities, enhancing their skills and career readiness.
- Taught barbering skills integrated with confidence-building and life-skills training, promoting holistic development.
- Created positive, disciplined learning environments that fostered personal growth and responsibility among students.
- Adapt lessons for at-risk and justice-involved youth using trauma-informed practices.
Minister & Men's Ministry Leader
FRESH START CHRISTIAN CENTER
Mount Vernon
12.2020 - 10.2024
- Delivered sermons and taught Bible study to diverse congregations as Minister.
- Serve as Minister, delivering sermons and teaching Bible study to diverse congregations.
- Guided individuals and families through premarital counseling, fostering strong foundations for relationships.
- Organized and facilitated workshops and small group initiatives that strengthen faith, mental health and fellowship.
- Provided spiritual guidance through counseling and support sessions, helping individuals navigate personal challenges.
Service Specialist
CONNECTICUT RENAISSANCE
Bridgeport
01.2023 - 03.2023
- Delivered behavioral health services to adolescents and adults, facilitating recovery from addiction and mental health challenges.
- Taught life skills and coping strategies, empowering individuals to navigate recovery and reintegrate into the community.
- Assisted individuals transitioning from incarceration, helping them overcome barriers to successful community living.
- Collaborated with clinicians to build personalized service plans and maintain compliance.
Student-Teacher
NEW YORK CITY TEACHING FELLOWS
Bronx
07.2019 - 10.2019
- Facilitated diverse learning by implementing tailored, differentiated instruction to meet individual needs.
- Enhanced student comprehension through interactive lessons and visual aids, fostering deeper engagement.
- Created classroom rules and communication strategies that cultivated a positive learning environment.
Physical Education Teacher
BRONX ARTS CHARTER SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS
Bronx
01.2019 - 06.2019
- Facilitated teamwork and sportsmanship during daily lessons to foster a collaborative learning environment.
- Increased student participation through engaging activities and collaborative projects.
- Established strong parent relationships via regular communication.
Education
NYS Master Barber -
WESTCHESTER BARBER ACADEMY
Mount Vernon, NYBachelors of Science - PASTORAL MINISTRY
NYACK COLLEGE
Nyack, NYSkills
- Classroom Management
- Student Support
- Behavioral Support
- Youth & Adult Engagement
- Life Skills Development
- Curriculum design
- Trauma practices
- Conflict Resolution
- Effective Communication
Certification
- NYS State Board Master Barber Examiner
- NYS Licensed Master Barber
Ministry And Leadership
Minister & Men's Ministry Leader, FRESH START CHRISTIAN CENTER, Mount Vernon, NY, Serve as Minister, delivering sermons and teaching Bible study to diverse congregations., Lead the Men's Ministry, mentoring members in spiritual growth and leadership., Provide guidance and premarital counseling to individuals and families., Organize and facilitate workshops, small groups, and outreach initiatives that strengthen faith, mental health and fellowship.
Timeline
Paraprofessional
ROGERS PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL
11.2025 - Current
Service Specialist
CONNECTICUT RENAISSANCE
01.2023 - 03.2023
Minister & Men's Ministry Leader
FRESH START CHRISTIAN CENTER
12.2020 - 10.2024
Barber Instructor/Mentor
WESTCHESTER BARBER ACADEMY
07.2020 - Current
Student-Teacher
NEW YORK CITY TEACHING FELLOWS
07.2019 - 10.2019
Physical Education Teacher
BRONX ARTS CHARTER SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS
01.2019 - 06.2019
NYS Master Barber -
WESTCHESTER BARBER ACADEMY
Bachelors of Science - PASTORAL MINISTRY
NYACK COLLEGE