Tamara Ishmael
Mechanicsville,VA
Summary
Compassionate education professional with hands-on experience as an Instructional Assistant supporting diverse learners in ACSIS and SIS programs. Pursuing a Bachelor’s in Special Education General Curriculum at Liberty University (anticipated May 2027). Offers strong collaborative skills and a commitment to student and family advocacy for a Special Education Teacher role at Bell Creek Middle School.
Overview
1
1
Certification
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Instructional Assistant
Hanover County Public Schools
Mechanicsville, Virginia
08.2026 - Current
- Implemented accommodations for students with special learning needs, fostering an inclusive classroom.
- Provided targeted classroom support during instruction and individual lessons, enhancing student engagement.
- Guided students through assignments, practice work, and teacher-directed tasks.
- Used a variety of teaching methods, including cooperative learning and differentiated instruction.
- Monitored student behavior, redirecting routines to maintain a positive learning environment.
Instructional Assistant
Henrico County Public Schools
07.2024 - 08.2026
- Delivered one-on-one support to students with special needs, facilitating their academic achievement and personal growth.
- Partnered with special education staff to customize instructional strategies for diverse learning needs, enhancing student comprehension.
- Assisted teachers in delivering lesson plans and instructional materials to enhance student engagement.
- Supported classroom management by implementing behavioral strategies and maintaining a positive learning environment.
- Facilitated small group activities, promoting collaboration and peer interaction among students.
- Monitored student progress regularly and communicated insights to educators on individual performance and improvement areas, fostering targeted support.
- Managed student activities during non-class times such as lunch breaks or recess periods, while maintaining safety standards at all times.
- Prepared instructional materials such as worksheets, visual aids, or manipulatives for effective lesson execution.
Sales Associate
Pottery Barn Kids
04.2018 - 06.2020
- Delivered personalized customer service in a high-end children's furniture store, enhancing customer loyalty.
- Guided customers in locating merchandise, improving their shopping experience and satisfaction.
- Processed customer transactions at cash register with speed and accuracy.
- Restocked sales floor and conducted stock checks, ensuring optimal inventory levels for customer needs.
Emergency communications operator
York-Poquoson Sheriffs Office
11.2011 - 05.2015
- Managed emergency communication systems to ensure rapid response during critical incidents.
- Coordinated emergency communications and crime prevention efforts to support law enforcement operations.
- Operated police communications center under pressure, utilizing telephone, radio, computer terminals, and telecommunications equipment for effective communication.
- Operated police communications center using telephone, radio, computer terminal, and telecommunications equipment to ensure effective communication.
- Assisted the public by providing information and facilitating communication with courts and the District Attorney's offices regarding court orders and evidence disposal.
Communications Operator
The City of Hopewell Police Department
10.2007 - 07.2010
- Operated emergency communications systems to efficiently relay critical information during incidents.
- Operate police communications center using various equipment such as telephone, radio, computer terminal and related telecommunications equipment.
- Assisted police officers with arrests and warrant checks using the National Criminal Information Center (NCIC).
- Assist police officers in making proper arrests, checking warrants and driving status utilizing the National Criminal Information Center (NCIC).
- Performed law enforcement and support services, contributing to operational effectiveness.
- Supported property and evidence management in law enforcement, ensuring proper handling and documentation.
- Maintained logs of police activities and training.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA05-2027
Skills
- Inclusive education
- Differentiated instruction
- Tailored instruction
- Instructional support
- Student assessment
- Behavior management
- Behavior intervention
- Student mentorship
Certification
- Safety-Care Certified: Behavioral Safety and Crisis Prevention Training (Valid: 09/2026 – 09/2027)
- Safe Schools Compliance
References
- Ashley Song (Assistant Principal), 804-795-7010
- Sara Abernathy ( Lead Teacher), 814-450-7237
- Asia Byrd, 757-903-9673
Affiliations
- Board of Directors & Assistant Secretary | The MGMR Foundation
Timeline
Instructional Assistant
Hanover County Public Schools
08.2026 - Current
Instructional Assistant
Henrico County Public Schools
07.2024 - 08.2026
Sales Associate
Pottery Barn Kids
04.2018 - 06.2020
Emergency communications operator
York-Poquoson Sheriffs Office
11.2011 - 05.2015
Communications Operator
The City of Hopewell Police Department
10.2007 - 07.2010
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Liberty University