Samuel Urness
Waterloo
Summary
Dedicated 5th-grade educator with 6+ years of experience fostering a growth mindset and academic excellence. Proven track record in bridging the gap between foundational skills and middle school readiness through inquiry-based learning. Committed to cultivating a high-accountability classroom culture that empowers students to take ownership of their social and academic growth during this pivotal transitional year.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Teacher
Highland Elementary School
Waterloo, IA
08.2023 - Current
- Instructed 150+ students in mathematics, science, reading, and writing
- Attended students' concerts, sporting events and performances to offer support and encourage extracurricular activities.
- Adapted lessons to differentiate instruction and meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
- Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student learning outcomes.
- Implemented diverse instructional strategies to accommodate various learning styles.
- Developed and implemented new curriculum for 5th Graders
- Utilized classroom management techniques to foster a positive learning environment.
- Assessed student progress through formative and summative evaluations, adapting teaching methods accordingly.
- Organized parent-teacher conferences to discuss student achievements and areas for improvement.
- Mentored new teachers on curriculum implementation and classroom best practices.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that stimulate critical thinking.
- Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
- Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
- Fostered positive learning environment that encouraged student curiosity and critical thinking.
- Utilized data-driven instruction to tailor lessons for improved academic performance.
- Met with parents to review Individualized Education Plans for at-risk students.
- Taught lessons encompassing skill-building activities in speaking, writing, reading and listening.
3rd Grade Student Teacher
Taft Elementary
Humboldt, IA
02.2023 - 05.2023
- Collaborated with teachers to assess student progress and adapt instructional techniques accordingly.
- Conducted small group tutoring sessions to reinforce key concepts and enhance understanding.
- Integrated technology into lessons, utilizing educational software to support student learning outcomes.
- Worked with classroom teacher to learn about current standards and best practices.
- Facilitated small group activities and one-on-one instruction to meet individual student needs.
- Cultivated positive relationships with administration, teaching staff, and students.
- Provided constructive feedback on student work, guiding them toward improvement while building their confidence in their abilities.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.
Student Teacher
Mease Elementary
Humboldt, IA
01.2023 - 02.2023
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
- Assisted in classroom management, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for students.
- Organized and participated in school events, promoting community involvement and student engagement.
- Provided feedback to students on assignments, encouraging critical thinking and self-assessment skills.
- Organized activities that fostered social skills and teamwork among students.
- Improved teaching abilities by closely monitoring teaching methods and impacts and implementing viable changes to curriculum and teaching methods.
- Supported lead teachers in daily tasks such as attendance records, test administration and behavioral enforcement.
- Took detailed notes during teacher observations, noting teaching methods and gaining deep understanding of techniques
- Monitored classrooms for safety and good behavior, offering students positive reinforcement to maintain discipline.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA05-2023
Associate of Arts - Elementary Education
Ellsworth Community College
Iowa Falls, IA05-2020
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Curriculum Development
- Educational Technology
- Student Assessment
- Lesson Planning
- Differentiated Instruction
- Collaboration
- Team collaboration
- Relationship building
Accomplishments
- Mentored future teachers and facilitated professional development workshops
- Completed Volumes 1 and 2 of LETRS Training
Timeline
Teacher
Highland Elementary School
08.2023 - Current
3rd Grade Student Teacher
Taft Elementary
02.2023 - 05.2023
Student Teacher
Mease Elementary
01.2023 - 02.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Northern Iowa
Associate of Arts - Elementary Education
Ellsworth Community College