Susan M. Foley
Elmhurst,IL
Summary
Dedicated and versatile educator with extensive experience teaching across multiple subject areas in both general education and special education settings. Proven ability to design and deliver engaging, differentiated instruction that meets the diverse needs of students with varying backgrounds, learning styles and ability levels. Skilled in implementing innovative teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, and assistive technologies to foster student success. A collaborative and adaptable professional with strong communication and relationship building skills, committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all students.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Health Educator
Candor Health Education
09.2021 - Current
- Delivers engaging health education programs for both general education and special education students in grades 4-12, promoting wellness, social emotional learning and informed decision-making
- Evaluates program effectiveness by tracking participant outcomes and adjusting strategies accordingly
- Enhanced participant understanding of health issues by creating culturally sensitive and relevant materials
- Leads professional development initiatives for Candor Health staff and broader educational communities, including WHPE, IAHPERD, Du Page County, and Elmhurst University, enhancing skills, collaboration and best practices
- Authored articles to support educators and parents in fostering the healthy development of children
- Led Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, resulting in the translation of student and parent materials into Spanish, the launch of a company DEI book club, and a period supply drive that provides over 700 local students annually with summer menstrual supplies
- Served as a mentor to new educators, offering coaching and resources that improved teaching effectiveness, student engagement and retention
Special Education Program Assistant
Churchville Middle School
08.2018 - 08.2021
- Provided differentiated instruction in both inclusive classrooms and resource settings, collaborating with general and special education teams to support student success
- Assisted teachers in creating differentiated lesson plans that met the needs of all learners
- Collected and analyzed data to assess student performance in academic and behavioral domains, informing targeted interventions and support strategies
- Partnered with student support services to provide comprehensive, individualized support for student success
- Developed effective classroom management strategies that promote a positive learning environment
- Fostered positive relationships with students to create a supportive learning environment that encourages risk-taking, critical thinking and academic growth
Long Term Substitute Teacher/6th Grade Science & Math
Churchville Middle School
11.2017 - 05.2018
- Participated in weekly Math and Science PLCs to collaborate in the design and delivery of engaging math and science curricula, differentiating instruction to meet the needs of English Learners and Special education students directly improving both academic and developmental outcomes
- Collaborated with special education teams and service providers to monitor IEP goals, track student progress, and ensure compliance with mandated services
- Served as a PBIS Coach, leading the implementation of positive behavior interventions which increased students' time in the classroom
- Engaged parents and guardians through phone and e-mail communication to provide student updates and address concerns. This practice increased school-home partnerships and improved satisfaction as reflected in year-end survey
Substitute Teacher
Elmhurst School District 205
01.2012 - 01.2017
- Delivered instruction across multiple subjects, ensuring lesson continuity for students in grades 6-8
- Maintained a calm and professional demeanor when handling unexpected challenges, such as behavioral issues or last-minute schedule changes
- Quickly familiarized myself with school policies, technology and grading systems to ensure a seamless teaching experience
- Maintained detailed records of classroom activities, ensuring a smooth transition back to the regular teacher
Long Term Substitute/6th Grade Science
Hadley Middle School
09.2012 - 02.2013
- Instructed five sections of 6th-grade science and one section of health, delivering engaging and standard aligned lessons
- Enforced school policies and implemented effective behavior management strategies to keep students focused on tasks
- Maintained clear communication with permanent teacher, administrators and parents regarding student progress and behavior
Clinical Instructional Professor
Illinois State University/Health Sciences Dept.
01.2005 - 01.2007
- Collaborated with university faculty to develop and deliver preparatory courses for student teachers, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge for the teaching profession
- Analyzed student data to evaluate progress towards programmatic goals, identifying trends and areas for instructional improvement
- Served as a liaison between the university, cooperating teachers, and building Principals, facilitating clear communication and collaboration to support student teacher development
Education
LBS1 IN SPECIAL EDUCATION - Special Education, Grades K-12
National Louis University
Chicago, IL05.2020
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN EDUCATION - Health Education, Grades 6-12, Science, Grades 6-8, Social Studies, Grades 6-8, United States History Grades 9-12, Physical Science, Grades 9-12
Illinois State University
Normal, IL05.1994
Skills
- Student Motivation & Engagement
- Curriculum Development
- Engaging keynote presentations
- Training seminars
- DEI Facilitator
- Zoom and Google Classroom for virtual instruction
- Special Education
- Data collection and analysis
- Evidence-based intervention
- Teamwork and Collaboration
Timeline
Health Educator
Candor Health Education
09.2021 - Current
Special Education Program Assistant
Churchville Middle School
08.2018 - 08.2021
Long Term Substitute Teacher/6th Grade Science & Math
Churchville Middle School
11.2017 - 05.2018
Long Term Substitute/6th Grade Science
Hadley Middle School
09.2012 - 02.2013
Substitute Teacher
Elmhurst School District 205
01.2012 - 01.2017
Clinical Instructional Professor
Illinois State University/Health Sciences Dept.
01.2005 - 01.2007
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN EDUCATION - Health Education, Grades 6-12, Science, Grades 6-8, Social Studies, Grades 6-8, United States History Grades 9-12, Physical Science, Grades 9-12
Illinois State University
LBS1 IN SPECIAL EDUCATION - Special Education, Grades K-12
National Louis University
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