A dedicated therapist who provides informal assessments and works with students with learning disabilities. Able to work as a part of a team to advise and determine appropriate learning strategies for struggling learners.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Academic Interventionist/Dyslexia Therapist
Neshoba County School District
08.2019 - Current
Implement Orton-Gillingham based Alphabetic Phonics program ensuring that Federal, State, and District policies/guidelines are followed and in compliance
Provide direct services in the area of reading/dyslexia/dysgraphia: screenings, interventions, and progress monitoring
Work with campus/district staff so that appropriate classroom accommodation is provided for students identified with dyslexia
Confidently maintain all necessary student records required by the dyslexia program
Attend Section 504/IEP meetings for the purpose of reviewing assessment results, progress and provide recommendations
Conduct progress monitoring for students receiving Dyslexia Therapy through the use of formal and informal assessment
Work collaboratively with the campus/district administrator to develop student dyslexia therapy schedules
Support District reading initiatives as the campus dyslexia program designed to help monitor and support the needs of students
Maintain awareness of current research and development in dyslexia and research-based reading practices
Assisted classroom teachers in modifying classes and programs to verify compliance with IEPs and interventions.
Conduct evaluations for students referred for dyslexia testing
RTI Coordinator
Neshoba County School District
08.2013 - 07.2019
Instrumental in development, organization, and implementation of new RTI program
Oversaw part-time tutors
Researched, implemented, and facilitated Barton Reading program for dyslexic and struggling readers
Cultivated connections and strong rapport with staff to foster classroom engagement
Articulated school's values to students, families, staff, and community
Communicated regularly with teachers and school administration concerning student achievement, curriculum elements, professional development, and teacher evaluations for student interventions
Maintained accurate student accounting records and other reports in compliance with local and state requirements
Participated in and facilitated professional development activities
Served as the instructional leader providing input on effective intervention curriculum, lessons, and student assessment
Ensured that every facet of the intervention program is explicitly aligned with state standards
Interacted and communicated effectively with parents and school staff
First Grade Teacher
Neshoba County School District
08.1999 - 07.2013
Acted as grade-chair to facilitate meetings, coordinate events, purchase and distribute materials, and serve as direct line of communication between administration and grade-level staff
Planned lessons according to district standards to cover requirements and prepare for standardized tests.
Established and enforced rules of behavior to drive social development and maintain positive interactions.
Stayed abreast of changes to school and district policies as well as new trends in education by attending professional development courses and in-service trainings.
Assessed student learning progress and comprehension with routine tests and standardized examinations.
Promoted exploration of building blocks of learning by leading diverse, hands-on activities.
Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
Chaperoned field trips to maintain safety and encourage learning.
Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process.
Collaborated with peers and administrators on classroom policies, management strategies, and discipline.
First Grade Teacher
Choctaw Tribal Schools
08.1996 - 05.1999
Implemented student-centered learning activities to meet diverse learning needs of Native American students
Oversaw traditional cultural activities for students such as art, cooking, dance, and music
Fostered an open, positive environment between students, parents, administration, and community through in person meetings, home visits, community tours, and classroom events
Assessed student learning progress and comprehension with routine tests and standardized examinations.
Education
Masters of Education - Dyslexia Therapy
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS
05.2020
Master of Science - Education Administration
Kaplan University
Davenport, IA
11.2016
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Mississippi State University
Starkville, MS
05.1995
Associate of Science - Elementary Education
Meridian Community College
Meridian, MS
05.1993
Skills
Strong knowledge of dyslexia and the reading process
Versed in Multi-sensory and differentiated teaching practices
Experience with dyslexic and special needs students
Effective problem-solving
Strong communication-interpersonal skills
Organized and detail oriented
Ability to foster positive relationships with students, parents, and staff