SYDNEY SMITH
New York
Summary
Passionate, innovative learning specialist with expertise in structured literacy, data-driven intervention, executive functioning support, and individualized instruction.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Private Academic Tutor
New York
01.2023 - Current
- Built a thriving tutoring practice, serving K-12 students attending New York City's most rigorous independent schools, in literacy, writing, executive functioning, and academic coaching.
- Develop highly individualized instructional plans for students with diverse learning profiles, including neurodivergent learners and students.
- Partner closely with families, teachers, and educational professionals to support measurable academic growth and increased learner confidence.
Special Education Teacher
NYC Department of Education
Bronx
01.2021 - Current
- Designed and implemented targeted interventions for students with diverse learning profiles, using assessment data to drive instruction and monitor growth.
- Achieved Highly Effective rating by delivering individualized literacy and mathematics instruction in inclusive elementary classrooms.
- Led literacy initiatives by delivering model lessons and collaborating with peers in Brooklyn College microcredential program.
Special Education Teacher
Innovations Academy
San Diego
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Implemented behavioral strategies to promote positive classroom environments.
- Collaborated with families to enhance student support and engagement.
- Delivered literacy and mathematics instruction in-person and remotely, adapting to diverse learning needs during COVID-19 pandemic.
Primary School English Teacher
Peace Corps
KwaZulu-Natal
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Implemented innovative teaching strategies to enhance language skills across math, literacy, and science.
- Developed engaging lesson plans for diverse student groups.
- Founded literacy and math intervention tutoring programs and coached a community swim program.
- Coached a community swim program, promoting teamwork and personal development.
Education
M.A. - Elementary Education
Teachers College, Columbia University
New York, NY01-2023
B.A. - Elementary Education
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA01-2018
Skills
- Structured Literacy
- Science of Reading
- Literacy Intervention
- Executive Functioning Support
- Progress Monitoring & Assessment
- Learning Differences
- Differentiated Instruction
- Family Partnership
- Curriculum Design
- Fundations
- SPIRE
- HMH Into Reading
- ISEE/ERB Preparation
- Multilingual Learner Support
- Spanish Communication
Timeline
Private Academic Tutor
01.2023 - Current
Special Education Teacher
NYC Department of Education
01.2021 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Innovations Academy
01.2020 - 01.2021
Primary School English Teacher
Peace Corps
01.2018 - 01.2020
M.A. - Elementary Education
Teachers College, Columbia University
B.A. - Elementary Education
San Diego State University