RYAN "ROCKY" ATKINSON
Lifelong Learner
Peoria,AZ
Summary
Compassionate, creative and effective teacher with valuable experience in classroom administration, professional development and project planning. Equipped with extensive background in versatile educational environments. Student-centric instructor, academic facilitator and motivational coach. Competent at performing independently or as member of a team.
Overview
1
1
Language
9
9
years of post-secondary education
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Life Skills Teacher, Medically Fragile Coordinator
Copper Canyon High School
Glendale, AZ
07.2015 - 09.2021
- Created student-centered individualized education plans (IEPs) in coordination with parents, teachers and related services providers to support students with developmental disabilities.
- Managed student case load of 10 students per year.
- Customized strategies based on student's IEP goals and utilized positive reinforcement strategies to continue progress against goals.
- Modeled positive behavior skills as well as good problem-solving and relationship-building skills to improve student's social development.
- Supported students with developmental disabilities and autism in building multi-faceted skillsets to promote independence and self-confidence.
- Taught individuals with learning & physical disabilities to use technology such as computers, tablets and mobile phones.
- Maintained impeccable records for each student and daily instructional activities.
- Intervened in crisis situations to provide counseling and support.
Special Education Teacher
Copper Canyon High School
Glendale, AZ
07.2013 - 07.2015
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Managed case load of 25 students per school year.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
- Instructed students in core academic areas and specialized reading groups.
- Worked with students with moderate to severe autism to increase life skills.
- Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
Enrollment Counselor
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
01.2013 - 07.2013
- Met or exceeded enrollment and retention goals consistently of 5 or more online students per month.
- Created and followed call scripts and flows to maximize effectiveness.
- Provided prospective or new students with information about educational and career planning, university resources and academic programs.
- Helped students complete applications and navigate admissions processes.
Enrollment Counselor
University Of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ
01.2009 - 01.2013
- Met or exceeded enrollment and retention goals consistently of 5 online students per month.
- Managed over 80 customer/student calls per day.
- Helped students complete applications and navigate admissions processes.
- Reached out to applicants via calls, texts, emails and social media.
- Communicated details about available classes, materials and services.
- Displayed consistent, positive attitude towards customers, peers and other personnel, even during high-stress situations.
Education
Mild-Moderate Disabilities Teaching Certification - Education of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs
Rio Salado College
Tempe, AZ 01.2014 - 05.2016
Master of Arts - Secondary Education
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ 01.2009 - 12.2010
Bachelor of Science - Social Science
Boise State University
Boise, ID 01.2000 - 12.2004
Skills
Case Note Documentation
Client documentation
Problem-solving skills
Strategic planning
Scheduling
Business administration
Staff Management
Workflow planning
Documentation and control
Former collegiate athlete
2000-2002: 3-year letterman in football at Boise State University. 2002 Honorable Mention Tight End for Mountain West Conference.
Timeline
Life Skills Teacher, Medically Fragile Coordinator
Copper Canyon High School
07.2015 - 09.2021
Mild-Moderate Disabilities Teaching Certification - Education of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs
Rio Salado College
01.2014 - 05.2016
Special Education Teacher
Copper Canyon High School
07.2013 - 07.2015
Enrollment Counselor
Grand Canyon University
01.2013 - 07.2013
Enrollment Counselor
University Of Phoenix
01.2009 - 01.2013
Master of Arts - Secondary Education
University of Phoenix
01.2009 - 12.2010
Bachelor of Science - Social Science
Boise State University
01.2000 - 12.2004