Certified bilingual educator with extensive experience in teaching English to non-native speakers, leveraging immersive learning experiences to improve language skills in addition to fostering a culturally competent and positive learning environment for all learners. Skilled in implementing data-driven instruction to enhance student engagement and linguistic proficiency. Strong emphasis on collaboration and adaptability, cultivating a cohesive and responsive educational environment.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Dyslexia Specialist/MTSS Coordinator
Harlingen CISD
Dr. Rodriguez Elementary STEM Academy
09.2023 - 09.2024
Enhanced dyslexic students' reading comprehension by implementing multi-sensory teaching methods and tailored lesson plans using Neuhaus Reading Readiness and dyslexia therapy curriculum.
Developed strong rapport with students, staff, and parents, fostering a supportive learning environment that catered to individual needs and strengths.
Scaffolded instruction in phonemic awareness, decoding skills, and vocabulary development for optimal student success.
Mentored fellow educators on best practices for teaching dyslexic learners, promoting inclusivity within the school community.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Evaluated students' progress using formal assessments and informal observations, adjusting instructional approaches accordingly.
Provided ongoing consultation to general education teachers regarding classroom accommodations and modifications for students with dyslexia.
Incorporated real-world applications into lessons, enhancing relevance and motivation for students struggling with reading difficulties.
Managed caseloads efficiently while maintaining detailed records of student progress, assessments, and intervention strategies used throughout the year.
Developed data-driven instructional plans based on regular analysis of student assessment results and progress monitoring data.
Coordinated with special education staff to ensure appropriate accommodations were provided for students with disabilities during intervention sessions.
Collaborated with administrators to evaluate the effectiveness of current intervention programs, proposing improvements and adjustments when needed.
Developed intervention plans based on established guidelines and individual needs.
5th Grade Spanish Dual Language Teacher
McAllen ISD
Leonelo H. Gonzalez Elementary School
08.2020 - 08.2023
Improved student language skills by implementing immersive learning activities and interactive games in Spanish and English.
Enhanced cultural understanding among students with the integration of authentic materials and culturally relevant content into lessons.
Achieved attainment of highest number of 5th grade students in the district to receive Spanish Language High School credit (2022, 2023).
Mentored new dual language teachers in lower elementary grades, sharing best practices and offering guidance throughout their first year of teaching.
Participated in professional development workshops focused on dual language education, staying up-to-date with current methodologies and pedagogical approaches.
Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
Designed curriculum to meet learning institution requirements and instill comprehensive knowledge of Spanish language and culture in students.
Improved student language skills in all core subjects by implementing immersive learning activities and interactive games.
Adapted instructional strategies to meet the unique needs of a diverse student population, ensuring success for all learners.
Prepared students for standardized exams in both languages by reviewing key concepts and conducting targeted practice sessions.
Assessed student progress regularly through quizzes, tests, and oral presentations, providing constructive feedback to support continuous improvement.
Explained concepts and assignments in both native and non-native languages.
Spoke to students in non-native language to challenge students and introduce students to non-native speaking environments.
Served as a liaison between the school and local community organizations that support bilingualism and multiculturalism in education.
Developed and executed lesson plans for both languages, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all essential topics.
Implemented a peer tutoring program within the classroom, encouraging collaboration and mutual support among students while reinforcing learned material simultaneously.
Educational Consultant
A Career In Teaching - ACP
McAllen, TX
05.2008 - 12.2016
Coordinated training and professional development courses for new and aspiring teachers to create new teaching strategies that encourage student learning.
Enhanced curriculum development for an adult audience by incorporating innovative teaching techniques and resources to demonstrate
Collaborated with administrators and school districts to identify opportunities for new teacher/mentor enrichment programs.
Facilitated workshops on various topics such as study skills, test-taking strategies, time management, and goal setting for enhanced student performance.
Managed a diverse caseload of adult candidates from various backgrounds, tailoring approaches to meet individual needs effectively in order to develop a well-rounded teaching candidate.
Offered valuable insights regarding instructional best practices that would enhance a new teacher's success rate on formal evaluations.
Enhanced employment application success rates in each cohort through personalized guidance on professional and pedagogical development for aspiring educators.
Improved candidate instructional skill-level outcomes by providing comprehensive educational consulting services to aspiring educators seeking an alternative certification route.
Promoted candidate enrollment in the Career In Teaching ACP program through consistent delivery of high-quality instruction and curriculum enhancement.
6th Grade Teacher (Social Studies and Science)
McAllen ISD
McAllen, TX
08.2011 - 05.2016
Increased student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and group projects into lesson plans.
Utilized various assessment methods to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly throughout the school year.
Supported student skill development in alignment with personal and academic goals.
Led interesting and diverse group activities to engage students in course material.
Built strong relationships with students, parents, and staff to foster a supportive school community.
Differentiated instruction for diverse learners, ensuring all students had access to appropriate materials and resources.
Developed data-driven instructional strategies to address individual student needs and improve academic outcomes.
Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices and offering guidance on classroom management techniques.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
St. Edwards University
05.2005
Skills
Cultural Competency
Literacy Development
100% Bilingual Fluency
Dual Language Instruction
ELPS
IEPs/BIPs
Progress Monitoring/Interventions
Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol
Collaborative Teamwork
Multi-Sensory Instruction
Data-Driven Instruction/Analysis
Cross-Cultural Communication
Accomplishments
St. Edward's University Dean's List -Fall '02, Spring '03
Cum Laude Graduation Distinction - Spring '05
Psychology Honor Society (Psi-Chi) Life-time Inductee -Spring '05
Certification
*4-8 Generalist Educator Certification (Texas)
*EC-12 Special Education Educator Certification (Texas)
*EC-12 Bilingual Educator Certification (Texas)
*Dyslexia Specialist (ongoing with Neuhaus Preparation Program)
Peer Support Specialist Coordinator for Linn and Polk County at Project ABLEPeer Support Specialist Coordinator for Linn and Polk County at Project ABLE