Sara Blanford
Philadelphia,PA
Summary
Dedicated paraeducator with expertise in small group instruction and classroom management. Committed to fostering a positive learning environment and providing emotional support to students with diverse needs.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Paraeducator, Special Education
Cheltenham Township School District
Elkins Park, PA
10.2018 - Current
- Supported individualized education plans (IEPs) to enhance student learning and engagement.
- Collaborated with teachers to adapt instructional materials for diverse learning needs.
- Monitored student progress and behavior, implementing positive reinforcement strategies.
- Assisted in developing and maintaining a structured classroom environment for students with special needs.
- Led small group sessions to reinforce core subjects and promote academic growth among students.
- Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
Paraprofessional
West Oak Lane Charter School
Philadelphia, PA
08.2009 - 06.2011
- Supported classroom activities by assisting teachers with lesson planning and instructional strategies.
- Facilitated individualized instruction to enhance student learning and engagement in various subjects.
- Assisted in the development and execution of educational programs aligned with curriculum standards.
Music Teacher
West Oak Lane Charter School
Philadelphia, PA
08.2006 - 06.2007
- Developed and implemented engaging music curricula aligned with state standards.
- Fostered student creativity through diverse musical activities and performance opportunities.
- Conducted individual assessments to identify students' strengths and areas for improvement.
- 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.
Music Teacher
St. Barnabas Episcopal School
Philadelphia, PA
08.2005 - 06.2006
- Organized school-wide music events, enhancing community involvement and student participation.
- Organized successful concerts and recitals, showcasing students'' talents and hard work.
- Mentored students in various ensembles, boosting their confidence and performance skills.
- 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.
Education
Master of Science - Theological Studies
Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary
Wilmington, DE06-2022
Master of Arts - Sacred Music
Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary
Wilmington, DE06-2022
Skills
- Small group instruction
- Classroom management
- Collaborative teamwork
- Emotional support
Affiliations
Order of Eastern Star- Past Worthy Matron
Pyramid Court No. 17- Auxiliary of the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine
Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity
National Society of Leadership and Success
Certification
- Certified Registered Behavior Technician, BACB - October 2025
Timeline
Paraeducator, Special Education
Cheltenham Township School District
10.2018 - Current
Paraprofessional
West Oak Lane Charter School
08.2009 - 06.2011
Music Teacher
West Oak Lane Charter School
08.2006 - 06.2007
Music Teacher
St. Barnabas Episcopal School
08.2005 - 06.2006
Master of Science - Theological Studies
Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary
Master of Arts - Sacred Music
Wayland Baptist Theological Seminary
Citation from the City of Philadelphia for Community Service
I was recognized for my years of service with Philadelphia's own Joy Unlimited Youth Mass Choir, as well as my work with youth around the city.