Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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SUSAN CASTRO

San Jose,CA

Summary

Over 22 years of experience as a preschool Teacher

Knowledgeable with proven background in child development, offering valuable insights into early childhood education. Successfully designed and implemented programs that fostered emotional and cognitive growth in children. Demonstrated effective communication and problem-solving skills in diverse educational settings.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Child Development Specialist

Star Therapy
09.2023 - 03.2024
  • Developed level-appropriate lessons and activities to support skill-building needs.
  • Conducted child health, sensory and behavioral screenings and prepared observation results.
  • Conducted educational, behavioral and well-being assessments.
  • Built and maintained strong parent and student relationships.
  • Prepared children for success in home settings through encouragement and exploration of learning activities.
  • Provided community resources and education to families to increase knowledge and advocacy skills.
  • Created and managed weekly personal schedule to accommodate visits with families, initial evaluations and reviews.
  • Observed children to recognize and maintain strong awareness of developmental progress.
  • Provided information on developmental milestones to coach families on incorporating modeled interventions into children's daily routines.
  • Designed language-based activities to promote language skills.
  • Performed early intervention services and documented results.
  • Conducted ongoing observations and assessments of children''s progress, utilizing the information gathered to inform instructional planning and intervention strategies effectively over time periods set forth by administrators
  • Provided a nurturing environment that supported children''s emotional well-being, reducing instances of challenging behavior.
  • Designed engaging play spaces that stimulated creativity and imaginative thinking among children.
  • Supported early literacy development with targeted reading instruction and phonics activities tailored to individual abilities.
  • Adapted curriculum materials to ensure accessibility and success for children with diverse abilities, resulting in equitable learning opportunities for all children
  • Enhanced children''s cognitive development by implementing innovative and age-appropriate activities.
  • Incorporated fine motor skill exercises into daily routines, improving hand-eye coordination and dexterity in young learners.
  • Promoted language development by incorporating storytelling, songs, and rhymes into daily routines.
  • Utilized data-driven decision-making processes to refine instructional practices and enhance student outcomes consistently.
  • Evaluated and assessed children''s progress regularly, identifying areas of improvement and adjusting strategies accordingly.
  • Documented data and completed accurate updates to case records.
  • Communicated respectfully and thoughtfully with parents and guardians by remaining sensitive to different families' cultures, values and needs.
  • Constructed age-appropriate goals and outcomes to assist children with special needs and developmental delays.

Porter/ Cook

Sky Chefs
02.2023 - 08.2023
  • Communicated with coworkers and managers about completed duties.
  • Maintained a strong work ethic and punctuality, consistently arriving on time and prepared for each shift.
  • Maintained a clean and welcoming environment for guests through regular cleaning of lobby, hallways, and restrooms.
  • Cleaned and organized building areas as required.
  • Performed cleaning and maintenance duties as directed.
  • Maintained building exteriors for professional, clean presentation standards.
  • Completed sweeping, mopping, and window-cleaning.
  • Upheld company standards for appearance by wearing designated uniform and maintaining professional demeanor at all times.
  • Promoted positive work atmosphere through effective communication with team members across various departments.

ABA- Maxim Healthcare
01.2023 - 03.2023
  • Fostered social-emotional growth in students by modeling appropriate behavior and providing opportunities for peer interaction.
  • Supported special needs students by implementing individualized education plans and collaborating with teachers for optimal learning outcomes.
  • Improved communication between school staff, parents, and students through regular updates on progress and participation in parent-teacher conferences.
  • Promoted a positive classroom environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistent routines.
  • Contributed to increased student performance by providing targeted one-on-one support and small group interventions.
  • Supported the integration of diverse learners within the general education setting by adapting instructional methods to meet individual needs.
  • Increased student engagement through the use of hands-on projects, group work, and technology integration.
  • Facilitated smooth transitions between activities during class periods while minimizing disruptions or downtime for students.
  • Developed effective behavior management strategies to address challenging behaviors and maintain a productive learning environment.
  • Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
  • Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
  • Assisted classroom teacher in supervising snack time and indoor and outdoor play.
  • Reported on student progress, behavior, and social skills to parents.
  • Enforced rules and instructions to maintain discipline.
  • Assisted students in developing deeper understanding of course concepts by providing one-on-one support.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to improve student engagement.
  • Demonstrated specific skills and activities for students to improve understanding and take excess workload off teachers.

Preschool Teacher

Kiddie Academy
07.2022 - 01.2023
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
  • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.

Lead Preschool Teacher

BrightStar Christian Preschool
10.2015 - 06.2022
  • Assisted and supervised 20 children through entire school day.
  • Established strong relationships with parents through regular communication regarding their child''s progress, fostering increased parental involvement in the educational process.
  • Conducted regular parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress and areas of improvement, encouraging a collaborative approach to education.
  • Incorporated play-based learning opportunities into daily routines, allowing students to explore new concepts while developing critical thinking skills through hands-on experiences.
  • Utilized positive reinforcement techniques when addressing behavioral issues, maintaining a respectful and orderly classroom environment conducive to learning.
  • Utilized books, songs and games to engage students.
  • Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
  • Enhanced preschoolers'' learning experiences by incorporating creative and interactive teaching methods in daily lessons.
  • Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
  • Submitted weekly lesson plans.
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
  • Supported the social-emotional development of students by implementing lessons on empathy, communication skills, and conflict resolution.
  • Monitored students' academic, social, and emotional progress and recorded in individual files.
  • Managed classroom materials efficiently, ensuring availability of necessary resources for daily activities and reducing waste.
  • Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop curriculum and share best practices, improving overall classroom effectiveness.
  • Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Mentored new educators on effective teaching strategies, contributing to their professional development and success in the classroom.
  • Planned educational opportunities based on children's interests.
  • Prepared pre-class materials.
  • Provided support for children with special needs or behavioral challenges, implementing personalized accommodations to promote inclusivity within the classroom setting.
  • Consulted with parents to build and maintain positive support networks and support continuing education strategies.
  • Attended professional development workshops regularly, staying up-to-date with current early childhood education trends and techniques for enhanced instruction quality.
  • Implemented a variety of assessment tools to track student progress and adjust instruction accordingly, leading to improved learning outcomes.
  • Fostered a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment where all students felt comfortable participating and sharing ideas.
  • Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
  • Enhanced classroom efficiency by streamlining daily routines and procedures, saving valuable instructional time for academic learning opportunities.
  • Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
  • Developed a comprehensive assessment system to track preschoolers'' progress in key developmental areas, using data-driven instruction to tailor lesson plans accordingly.
  • Developed individualized lesson plans for each student, resulting in increased academic growth and understanding.
  • Boosted cultural awareness by incorporating children's literature from world cultures.
  • Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.
  • Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
  • Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
  • Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
  • Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
  • Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Strengthened communication skills among preschoolers through daily dialogue practice during circle time sessions.
  • Evaluated student performance regularly through observation, assessment tools, and parent-teacher conferences to ensure academic growth was being achieved consistently across all areas of development.
  • Assisted in the assessment of each student''s abilities, tailoring instruction to meet individual needs and learning styles.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans.
  • Assessed student progress and provided feedback on educational development.
  • Protected children in-class, at recess and off-site with observational skills and positive reinforcement for good behavior.
  • Supported students in developing self-esteem and self-confidence.
  • Helped new preschool children get used to classes by giving one-on-one support.
  • Collaborated with teachers, parents and administrators to facilitate positive outcomes for students.
  • Developed innovative activities to engage young children in learning process.

Preschool Teacher

4cs Of Alameda County
03.2014 - 06.2014
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
  • Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
  • Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
  • Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
  • Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
  • Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
  • Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
  • Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Strengthened communication skills among preschoolers through daily dialogue practice during circle time sessions.
  • Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
  • Improved student behavior by implementing effective classroom management strategies and establishing clear expectations for conduct.
  • Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
  • Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
  • Fostered independence in students by encouraging self-help skills and personal responsibility.
  • Promoted physical health through organized outdoor play and activities, supporting overall well-being.

Preschool Teacher

Little Angels Daycare School
09.2013 - 11.2013
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
  • Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
  • Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
  • Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
  • Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
  • Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
  • Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
  • Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Strengthened communication skills among preschoolers through daily dialogue practice during circle time sessions.
  • Monitored students' academic, social, and emotional progress and recorded in individual files.
  • Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
  • Evaluated student performance regularly through observation, assessment tools, and parent-teacher conferences to ensure academic growth was being achieved consistently across all areas of development.
  • Improved student behavior by implementing effective classroom management strategies and establishing clear expectations for conduct.
  • Assisted in the assessment of each student''s abilities, tailoring instruction to meet individual needs and learning styles.
  • Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
  • Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
  • Increased parent involvement by effectively communicating with families about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and student progress reports.

Preschool Teacher

Little Flowers Montessori School
02.2013 - 09.2013
  • Implemented Montessori principles in daily classroom activities, promoting independent learning and self-discovery among students.
  • Prepared classroom and materials according to montessori pedagogy and needs of children.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing hands-on learning activities and creative teaching methods.
  • Developed and implemented individualized learning plans, group lesson plans and classroom activities consistent with instructional guidelines.
  • Contributed to the development of an inclusive classroom culture that valued respect, diversity, and openmindedness.
  • Assessed students in accordance with school guidelines, examined assessment data and refined learning plans to differentiate instruction for each student.
  • Established inspiring classroom setting with systems and procedures that managed student behavior, movement and learning.
  • Improved classroom management by establishing clear expectations and consistently enforcing rules.
  • Collaborated with fellow teachers to share best practices and improve overall curriculum effectiveness.
  • Guided children to resolve disagreements and documented issues, incidents and behavior problems for appropriate follow-up.
  • Greeted parents and children at arrival and departure times to make families feel welcomed into environment.
  • Supported and guided staff in classroom to achieve desired goals set forth for children.
  • Contributed positively to school community and fully supported school mission and goals.
  • Informed students and families of classroom activities and student progress and identified methods to involve parents in student education.

Preschool Teacher

Joyful Noise Learning Center
06.2010 - 11.2012
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
  • Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
  • Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
  • Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
  • Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
  • Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
  • Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
  • Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Strengthened communication skills among preschoolers through daily dialogue practice during circle time sessions.
  • Monitored students' academic, social, and emotional progress and recorded in individual files.
  • Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
  • Maintained accurate records of each child''s progress throughout the year using various documentation methods such as portfolios or tracking sheets.
  • Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
  • Improved student behavior by implementing effective classroom management strategies and establishing clear expectations for conduct.
  • Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
  • Improved learning with well-structured lesson plans that made complex concepts easier for preschoolers to understand.
  • Adapted lesson plans to meet needs of each student, offering personalized support where necessary.

Cashier

7Eleven
11.2010 - 07.2011
  • Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
  • Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
  • Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
  • Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
  • Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
  • Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
  • Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
  • Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
  • Counted money in cash drawers at beginning and end of shifts to maintain accuracy.
  • Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required.

Preschool Teacher

San Juan Bautista CDC
12.2001 - 08.2008
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
  • Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
  • Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
  • Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
  • Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
  • Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
  • Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
  • Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Monitored students' academic, social, and emotional progress and recorded in individual files.
  • Maintained accurate records of each child''s progress throughout the year using various documentation methods such as portfolios or tracking sheets.
  • Evaluated student performance regularly through observation, assessment tools, and parent-teacher conferences to ensure academic growth was being achieved consistently across all areas of development.
  • Assisted in the assessment of each student''s abilities, tailoring instruction to meet individual needs and learning styles.
  • Improved student behavior by implementing effective classroom management strategies and establishing clear expectations for conduct.
  • Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
  • Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.

C.N.A

Regency Assisted Living
04.2001 - 12.2001
  • Helped patients effectively manage routine bathing, grooming, and other hygiene needs.
  • Improved patient satisfaction by providing compassionate assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
  • Checked patient vitals such as temperature, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
  • Increased patient engagement by providing emotional support, companionship, and encouragement during challenging times.
  • Promoted a safe and clean environment by maintaining strict adherence to infection control protocols and sanitation standards.
  • Promoted good oral and personal hygiene by aiding patients with shaving, bathing, and teeth brushing.
  • Answered call lights and supported patient comfort and safety by adjusting bed rails and equipment.
  • Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
  • Skillfully operated medical equipment, such as glucose monitors and blood pressure cuffs, ensuring accurate data collection for informed decision-making by healthcare providers.
  • Documented care actions by completing records and logs in medical software system.
  • Agreed to take on additional shifts and extra hours during busy periods and holidays to maintain proper staffing and floor coverage.
  • Maximized patient satisfaction by helping individuals carry out personal tasks such as dressing and walking.
  • Enhanced patient care by effectively monitoring vital signs and accurately documenting medical information.
  • Assisted in the training of new Nursing Assistants, sharing knowledge of best practices to improve overall department performance.
  • Observed or examined patients to detect symptoms that required medical attention such as bruises or open wounds.
  • Proactively identified changes in patient condition or behavior, alerting appropriate healthcare personnel for prompt intervention when necessary.
  • Assisted nursing staff with wound care procedures for faster healing and reduced infection rates.
  • Engaged in housekeeping tasks by replacing linens and cleaning and sanitizing patient rooms.
  • Monitored, tracked, and conveyed important patient information to healthcare staff to help optimize treatment planning and care delivery.
  • Facilitated efficient patient transfers, reducing risk of injury through proper body mechanics and use of assistive devices.
  • Participated in regular staff meetings to discuss emerging issues within the unit, contributing ideas for quality improvement initiatives.
  • Enhanced continuity of care by thoroughly documenting shift reports and maintaining clear communication with incoming staff members.

C.N.A.

Herman Sanitarium
10.2000 - 04.2001
  • Assisted patients with daily living activities, promoting independence and dignity.
  • Checked patient vitals such as temperature, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
  • Promoted good oral and personal hygiene by aiding patients with shaving, bathing, and teeth brushing.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate and attentive care.
  • Maintained confidentiality of patient information according to HIPAA guidelines while communicating effectively with team members about critical updates.
  • Answered call lights and supported patient comfort and safety by adjusting bed rails and equipment.
  • Utilized proper body mechanics and assistance devices when transferring patients, minimizing the risk of injury for both parties.
  • Ensured prompt response to call lights, addressing patient needs in a timely manner.
  • Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
  • Prevented bedsores by regularly repositioning patients and implementing proper wound care techniques.
  • Delivered individualized patient care by recording vital signs, documenting observations, administering treatments, and evaluating patient needs.
  • Provided emotional support for patients during challenging times, fostering a positive healing environment.
  • Implemented fall prevention measures by identifying high-risk patients and maintaining clutter-free environments around bedsides.
  • Cared for residents in assisted living facility and delivered high-quality support to meet needs.
  • Reduced patient stress levels through effective communication and active listening skills.
  • Promoted infection control practices within the facility by adhering to strict hand hygiene procedures and utilizing personal protective equipment when necessary.
  • Offered immediate assistance in emergency and routine paging situations to evaluate needs and deliver care.
  • Cared for clients with diagnoses such as respiratory failure, diabetes, Parkinson's disease and muscular dystrophy.
  • Oversaw and maintained patients' rooms, group living areas, and nurse stations.
  • Assisted in emergency situations under the direction of nursing supervisors or physicians, providing crucial support during life-saving interventions.
  • Supported ambulation and physical therapy needs by conducting planned exercise routines.

Education

Child Development Courses -

San Jose City College
San Jose, CA
01.2022

Certification of Completion - C.N.A

Castro Valley Adult Ed
Castro Valley, CA
01.2009

Child Development Courses -

Mission College
Santa Clara, CA
01.2002

Certification of Completion - C.N.A

Occupational Center
San Jose, CA
01.2000

Skills

  • Parent-teacher collaboration
  • Play-Based Learning
  • Lesson Planning
  • Social Skills Training
  • Sensory Integration
  • Safety Planning
  • Social Development
  • Report Writing
  • Motor Skills Development
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Special Needs Support
  • Documentation Management
  • Literacy development
  • Creative Arts Integration
  • Skill-building exercises
  • Developmental assessments
  • Assessments understanding
  • Milestones understanding
  • Physical development
  • Self-help skills development
  • Educational improvements
  • Nutrition guidance
  • Communication techniques
  • Progress notes updates
  • Child development knowledge
  • Child assessment
  • Developmentally-appropriate plans
  • Early intervention services
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Problem-Solving
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Multitasking
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Excellent Communication
  • Organizational Skills
  • Team Collaboration
  • Active Listening
  • Effective Communication
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Decision-Making
  • Relationship Building
  • Clinical Documentation
  • Team building
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Goal Setting
  • Professionalism
  • Family services
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Behavior Modification
  • Special Education

Languages

Spanish
Full Professional

Timeline

Child Development Specialist

Star Therapy
09.2023 - 03.2024

Porter/ Cook

Sky Chefs
02.2023 - 08.2023

ABA- Maxim Healthcare
01.2023 - 03.2023

Preschool Teacher

Kiddie Academy
07.2022 - 01.2023

Lead Preschool Teacher

BrightStar Christian Preschool
10.2015 - 06.2022

Preschool Teacher

4cs Of Alameda County
03.2014 - 06.2014

Preschool Teacher

Little Angels Daycare School
09.2013 - 11.2013

Preschool Teacher

Little Flowers Montessori School
02.2013 - 09.2013

Cashier

7Eleven
11.2010 - 07.2011

Preschool Teacher

Joyful Noise Learning Center
06.2010 - 11.2012

Preschool Teacher

San Juan Bautista CDC
12.2001 - 08.2008

C.N.A

Regency Assisted Living
04.2001 - 12.2001

C.N.A.

Herman Sanitarium
10.2000 - 04.2001

Certification of Completion - C.N.A

Castro Valley Adult Ed

Child Development Courses -

Mission College

Certification of Completion - C.N.A

Occupational Center

Child Development Courses -

San Jose City College

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