Sarah Getz
Luray,VA
Summary
Dynamic educator with extensive experience at Page County Public Schools, excelling in differentiated instruction and educational technology. Spearheaded interdisciplinary lesson plans and enhanced student engagement, achieving notable improvements in academic performance. Expert in creating positive learning environments and implementing effective behavior management strategies. Demonstrated leadership as Social Studies Department Head, significantly elevating teaching practices.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
9th and 12th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Page County Public Schools
08.2017 - Current
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans that connected social studies content to other subject areas.
- Improved student comprehension by utilizing diverse teaching methods and materials tailored to individual learning styles.
- Developed a positive classroom environment by fostering open communication, respect, and collaboration among students.
- Created lesson plans and made adjustments based on overall class performance throughout year.
- Utilized technology to enhance student education and grasp of materials.
- Implemented project-based learning activities that encouraged students to apply their knowledge to real-life situations, enhancing problem-solving skills and deepening understanding of course concepts.
- Assisted struggling students through targeted one-on-one tutoring sessions, resulting in improved academic performance.
- Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
- Enhanced critical thinking skills for students through engaging debates and inquiry-based activities.
- Served as the Advisor for the SCA (Student Council Association), fostering a passion for social studies beyond the classroom setting.
- Organized field trips and guest speakers to supplement classroom learning experiences, providing real-world context for course topics.
- Served as the Social Studies Department Head, offering guidance and support in the development of effective teaching practices.
Behavior Specialist/ED Teacher
Page County Public Schools
08.2016 - 08.2017
- Reduced classroom disruptions through careful observation and analysis of student behaviors, leading to tailored interventions.
- Provided crisis intervention support during critical incidents, deescalating situations and ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of behavior interventions using data-driven approaches, making adjustments as needed to ensure success.
- Supervised student behavior during daily academic routines to secure safety of students and staff.
- Utilized positive reinforcement to maximize desired behavior and educational outcomes.
8th Grade Civics and Special Education Teacher
Roanoke County Public Schools
08.1998 - 06.2016
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- 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.
Social Studies Teacher
Wilderness Leadership Academy
08.1997 - 01.1998
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
- Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
Education
Master of Arts - Special Education
Radford University
Radford, VA08.2003
Bachelor of Science - Social Sciences
Radford University
Radford, VA12.1992
Skills
- Differentiated Instruction
- Educational technology
- Classroom Management
- Technology Implementation
- Student Engagement
- Collaborative learning
- Behavior Modeling
- Positive Learning Environment
- Positive Reinforcement
Timeline
9th and 12th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Page County Public Schools
08.2017 - Current
Behavior Specialist/ED Teacher
Page County Public Schools
08.2016 - 08.2017
8th Grade Civics and Special Education Teacher
Roanoke County Public Schools
08.1998 - 06.2016
Social Studies Teacher
Wilderness Leadership Academy
08.1997 - 01.1998
Master of Arts - Special Education
Radford University
Bachelor of Science - Social Sciences
Radford University
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