Sarah M Cook
El Cajon ,CA
Summary
Compassionate and highly skilled Special Education Teacher specializing in one-on-one instruction for elementary students. Experienced in strengthening foundational math and literacy skills while building confidence, focus, and independence.
Known for creating engaging, personalized lessons that reduce frustration and increase motivation—especially for students who struggle with traditional instruction. Strong background in social-emotional support, positive reinforcement, and partnering with families to ensure measurable progress.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Specialist
Leonardo Da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School
Chula Vista, CA
07.2024 - Current
- Deliver personalized one-on-one instruction to strengthen foundational math and literacy skills while building student confidence and independence
- Design customized lessons based on individual learning styles, strengths, and academic gaps
- Support social-emotional development, including self-regulation, confidence, and a positive academic mindset
- Manage a caseload of 38 students (TK–6th), providing targeted interventions and progress monitoring
- Conduct student assessments to identify learning needs and adjust instruction accordingly
- Collaborate with general education teachers and families to ensure consistent student growth
- Create structured, supportive learning environments that promote focus, persistence, and engagement
- Utilize positive reinforcement and behavior strategies to increase motivation and reduce frustration
Special Education Paraprofessional
La Mesa Spring Valley School District
La Mesa, CA
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Provided targeted one-on-one and small group instruction to support student learning
- Reinforced foundational academic skills through guided practice and individualized support
- Motivated students using encouragement, structured support, and positive feedback
- Assisted with accommodations and modifications to support diverse learning needs
- Supervised and supported students in maintaining safe and structured environments
Front Desk Concierge
Complete Dental Health
San Diego, CA
05.2007 - 06.2024
- Built strong relationships with clients through clear communication and problem-solving
- Maintained professionalism, organization, and reliability in a fast-paced environment
- Developed strong interpersonal skills that support parent communication and trust-building
- Processed payments accurately, balancing cash drawer at the end of each shift.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Special Education And Elementary Education
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ05-2024
Skills
- 1:1 Instruction & Intervention
- Elementary Math Foundations
- Literacy Intervention (Science of Reading / LETRS)
- Confidence & SEL-Based Learning
- Differentiated Instruction
- Learning Gaps Remediation
- Parent Communication & Progress Updates
- Behavior & Motivation Strategies
- Provided targeted 1:1 academic support in math and literacy for elementary students
- Designed engaging, personalized lessons to meet individual student needs
- Helped students improve focus, persistence, and independent problem-solving
- Used social-emotional strategies to build confidence and reduce academic anxiety
- Communicated progress and strategies with families to support continued growth
Timeline
Special Education Specialist
Leonardo Da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School
07.2024 - Current
Special Education Paraprofessional
La Mesa Spring Valley School District
08.2023 - 06.2024
Front Desk Concierge
Complete Dental Health
05.2007 - 06.2024
Bachelor of Science - Special Education And Elementary Education
Grand Canyon University