Shannon Gaffney
Waldwick
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate elementary teacher candidate experienced in general and special education settings across multiple grade levels. Skilled in differentiated, trauma-informed instruction, literacy support, and IEP-aligned accommodations. Committed to creating inclusive learning environments that support academic growth and social-emotional development.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Substitute Teacher
Maywood School District
12.2024 - Current
- Implemented lesson plans to engage students in diverse learning activities.
- Maintained classroom discipline, fostering a positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with teachers to support curriculum delivery and classroom management.
Party Entertainer
Rockin Roxanne's Party Magic
2024 - Current
- Established strong relationships with clients, leading to repeat bookings and referrals.
- Increased client satisfaction by tailoring performances to suit specific event themes and age groups.
- Created engaging performances that captivated audiences and ensured memorable experiences.
Babysitter
Various Families
2019 - Current
- Supervised children's activities, ensuring safety and engagement during playtime.
- Communicated effectively with parents regarding child behavior, daily activities, and developmental milestones.
- Organized educational and recreational activities to promote cognitive and social development.
Daycare Floater
The Learning Experience
02.2024 - 08.2024
- Supervised daily activities to ensure safety and engagement of children across all age groups
- Maintained comprehensive records documenting attendance, behavior patterns, and any pertinent observations about individual children''s needs or accomplishments.
- Facilitated smooth transitions between classrooms, maintaining a positive learning environment
- Collaborated with staff to create inclusive and interactive learning experiences for diverse needs
Preschool Teacher's Assistant
The Learning Experience
12.2020 - 08.2023
- Assisted lead teacher in implementing age-appropriate curriculum and activities.
- Supported classroom management by maintaining a positive learning environment.
- Communicated effectively with parents regarding children's development and behavior.
- Engaged children in educational play, fostering social and cognitive development.
Education
Master of Teaching - Special Education
The College of New Jersey
Trenton, NJ01-2026
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education And Psychology
The College of New Jersey
Trenton, NJ01-2025
Skills
- Student engagement
- Relationship building and management
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Verbal and written communication
- Classroom management
- Organization
- Group and individual instruction
- Lesson planning
Certification
- Certified Substitute Teacher, NJ Department of Education
Professional Experiences
Clinical I Teacher Candidate
Burlington School District – Fountain Woods Elementary School
4th Grade ELA Resource Room
February 2025 – May 2025
- Provided small-group and one-on-one literacy instruction in a resource room setting
- Supported students with IEPs through targeted reading interventions and accommodations
- Assisted with differentiated instruction aligned to individual student needs
- Implemented positive, trauma-informed behavior supports to promote student engagement
- Collaborated with the cooperating teacher to monitor student progress and adjust instruction
South Brunswick School District – Monmouth Junction Elementary School
2nd Grade General Education; 3rd/4th Grade LLD Self-Contained
September 2025 – December 2025
- Planned and delivered standards-aligned lessons in a 2nd grade general education classroom
- Differentiated instruction to support diverse academic and social-emotional needs
- Transitioned to a self-contained LLD classroom, providing intensive individualized instruction
- Supported IEP goals through accommodations, modifications, and one-on-one instruction
- Implemented positive behavior supports and de-escalation strategies
- Collaborated with special education staff, general education teachers, and related service providers
DIBELS Implementation Training
September 2025
- Completed professional development on DIBELS assessment administration and scoring
- Analyzed literacy assessment data to inform instruction and progress monitoring
- Applied data-driven decision-making to support early literacy development
Timeline
Substitute Teacher
Maywood School District
12.2024 - Current
Daycare Floater
The Learning Experience
02.2024 - 08.2024
Preschool Teacher's Assistant
The Learning Experience
12.2020 - 08.2023
Party Entertainer
Rockin Roxanne's Party Magic
2024 - Current
Babysitter
Various Families
2019 - Current
Master of Teaching - Special Education
The College of New Jersey
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education And Psychology
The College of New Jersey