Adept at fostering student, teacher, and community engagement through innovative curriculum development, I spearheaded initiatives at Kenosha Unified School District that significantly improved academic performance. My expertise in educational leadership and data analysis, coupled with a strong ability to build relationships to enhanced classroom instruction, collaboration and academic excellence. I have a strong background in curriculum development, instructional design, classroom management and leadership with the ability to collaborate with colleagues, adapt to changing educational needs and drive student success. I am reliable, flexible and use a results-driven approach.
Overview
42
42
years of professional experience
Work History
College of Education Adjunct Professor
Carthage College
09.1996 - Current
Participated in course and program assessment and made improvements in teaching.
Established and maintained scholarly research program that provided research opportunities for students.
Advised students on academic planning and career goals, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.
Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating genuine interest in their success both inside and outside the classroom.
Partnered with community organizations to provide real-world experiences for students as part of course requirements.
Collaborated with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects, fostering a cohesive educational environment for students.
Evaluated student performance through formative and summative assessments, providing valuable feedback for growth and improvement.
Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating real-life examples and relatable scenarios into lectures.
Built relationships with students, mentoring on personal, professional and academic goals while providing coaching on effective study habits.
Taught literacy-based courses, providing instruction to undergraduate students.
Taught curriculum and leadership courses, providing instruction to graduate students.
Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
Graded quizzes, tests, homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
Developed curriculum standards, lesson plans and syllabi.
Used exams, quizzes and assignments to assess student comprehension.
Planned and implemented engaging lectures and activities for college-level students.
Supervised students' fieldwork, internship, and research work.
Mentored and advised college students in academic and professional pursuits.
Principal, Mary Lou Mahone Middle School
Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD)
07.2012 - 06.2024
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.
Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
Built and maintained positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, such as parents, school volunteers and outside agencies.
Improved school performance by developing and implementing data-driven instructional strategies.
Spearheaded professional development initiatives, fostering an environment of continuous growth for staff members.
Oversaw curriculum design process to ensure alignment with state standards and best practices in education.
Supported special education department by developing programs and protocols for at-risk youth and students with special needs.
Built strong relationships with local community organizations for outreach efforts supporting both student learning and school reputation.
Managed budget allocations for academic programs, ensuring responsible use of resources for maximum educational impact.
Oversaw integration of technology in classrooms, equipping students with modern learning tools.
Enhanced teacher effectiveness through regular classroom observations and feedback sessions.
Analyzed standardized test results to identify areas of improvement in instruction methods and curriculum content.
Supervised and evaluated teaching and support staff through instructional leadership and professional development.
Mentored new teachers in navigating their roles within the school system effectively.
Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
Actively participated in district-level meetings to contribute insights on policies affecting schools within the district.
Instructed small groups of teachers and students.
Administered personnel policies and procedures and approved professional staff additions.
Collaborated with school board officials to assess areas for improvement in curricula, classrooms, testing and student activities.
Improved student test scores with adoption of new curriculum focused on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Improved student academic performance with targeted intervention programs for at-risk youths.
Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
Formulated and implemented school safety and security policies.
Assistant Principal, Mary Lou Mahone Middle School
Kenosha Unified School Distrit (KUSD)
07.2009 - 06.2012
Partnered with principal to administer school program in alignment with vision and goals, providing positive, high-expectation academic environment.
Supported a positive school culture by addressing student behavior concerns promptly and effectively.
Enhanced teacher effectiveness through regular classroom observations and feedback sessions.
Performed classroom evaluations to assess teacher strategies and effectiveness.
Established intervention programs for struggling students, improving overall academic achievement levels at the school.
Built and maintained positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, such as parents, school volunteers and outside agencies.
Monitored student behavior and enforced discipline policies.
Built productive relationships with parents of students facing difficult situations at school or at home.
Improved school performance by developing and implementing data-driven instructional strategies.
Analyzed standardized test results to identify areas of improvement in instruction methods and curriculum content.
Evaluated teacher performance against established benchmarks, providing actionable feedback for improvement purposes.
Fostered a safe learning environment by collaborating with security personnel and implementing safety protocols throughout the campus.
Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
Supervised and evaluated teaching and support staff through instructional leadership and professional development.
Mentored new teachers in navigating their roles within the school system effectively.
Spearheaded professional development initiatives, fostering an environment of continuous growth for staff members.
Oversaw curriculum design process to ensure alignment with state standards and best practices in education.
Supported special education department by developing programs and protocols for at-risk youth and students with special needs.
Assisted with compliance efforts for fire and other safety regulations.
Led school-wide initiatives focused on increasing attendance rates and reducing dropout numbers.
Implemented effective communication channels between administrators, teachers, students, and parents to foster strong relationships within the school community.
Actively participated in district-level meetings to contribute insights on policies affecting schools within the district.
Collaborated with faculty to create interdisciplinary lesson plans, increasing student engagement across subjects.
Championed extracurricular activities that promoted well-rounded student development beyond academics.
Built strong relationships with local community organizations for outreach efforts supporting both student learning and school reputation.
Oversaw schedule management and protocols for orientation, registration, and related activities.
Developed comprehensive assessment systems to monitor student progress and inform instructional decisions.
Instructed small groups of teachers and students.
Supported hiring, training, and disciplinary action in compliance with legal guidelines and requirements.
Streamlined administrative processes to maximize efficiency in daily operations at the school level.
Led professional development workshops to improve teaching strategies and outcomes.
Fostered positive school culture, establishing programs that promoted inclusivity and respect among students.
Facilitated collaboration between parents, teachers, and students to address academic and behavioral issues.
Proven record of developing and implementing school policies to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
Developed and coordinated after-school programs and activities.
Co-Director of Chiwaukee Academy
Kenosha Unified School District
05.2003 - 08.2009
Fostered an inclusive environment that valued diversity of thought, experience, and background among team members.
Utilized technology tools effectively to automate tasks where appropriate, freeing up time for higher-value activities.
Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms that benefited the organization''s bottom line.
Managed budgets effectively, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for maximum impact.
Assisted in organizing and overseeing courses offering for teachers in Southeastern Wisconsin to drive academic excellence.
Coordinator of Professional Learning
Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD)
07.2007 - 06.2009
Entered data, generated reports, and produced tracking documents.
Improved team productivity with regular communication and progress updates, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Managed project timelines for successful completion, ensuring milestones were met and deadlines were adhered to.
Collaborated with department heads to develop strategic plans aligning with overall academic objectives, fostering a unified approach toward shared goals.
Developed comprehensive training materials for new staff, leading to quicker onboarding and higher initial productivity levels.
Managed vendor relationships to secure best quality of services and products for organizational needs.
Organized spaces, materials and catering support for internal and client-focused meetings.
· Presented research findings at conferences, furthering the institution’s reputation for excellence in education.
· Built and maintained positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, such as parents, school volunteers and outside agencies.
· Spearheaded professional development initiatives, fostering an environment of continuous growth for staff members.
· Built strong relationships with local community organizations for outreach efforts supporting both student learning and school reputation.
Managed budget allocations for academic programs, ensuring responsible use of resources for maximum educational impact.
Oversaw integration of technology in classrooms, equipping students with modern learning tools.
Enhanced teacher effectiveness through regular classroom observations and feedback sessions.
Analyzed standardized test results to identify areas of improvement in instruction methods and curriculum content.
Supervised teaching and support staff through instructional leadership and professional development.
Mentored new teachers in navigating their roles within the school system effectively.
Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
Actively participated in district-level meetings to contribute insights on policies affecting schools within the district.
Instructed small groups of teachers and students.
Administered personnel policies and procedures and approved professional staff additions.
Collaborated with school board officials to assess areas for improvement in curricula, classrooms, testing and student activities.
Improved student test scores with adoption of new curriculum focused on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Improved student academic performance with targeted intervention programs for at-risk youths.
Teacher Consultant
Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD)
07.2001 - 06.2007
Actively participated in school-wide committees focused on curriculum development and assessment practices, helping shape future instructional policies.
Improved student reading comprehension by implementing guided reading activities and small group instruction.
Promoted critical thinking skills among students through inquiry-based lessons and collaborative group projects.
Evaluated student progress regularly, adjusting instructional strategies to address areas of need and maximize growth potential.
Collaborated with colleagues and schools to develop interdisciplinary lessons, enriching the educational experience for all students.
Led professional development workshops on best teaching practices, contributing to the overall improvement of teaching quality within the school.
Fostered a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and consistently enforcing classroom rules.
Utilized data-driven decision making to inform instructional practices, leading to improved student outcomes on standardized tests.
Managed classroom resources effectively, ensuring that materials were well-organized and readily accessible for daily use.
Supported diverse learners by differentiating instruction and providing appropriate accommodations for various learning needs.
Collaborated with Colleagues to Enhanced students'' writing skills through targeted feedback and individualized support, leading to notable improvements in written work quality.
Designed course materials and supported implementation.
Collaborated with administrators to determine professional learning needs.
Created curricula, research topics and conceptualized course format, subject matter and presentation.
Teamed with subject matter experts in evaluation and revision of training tools in order to continually improve learning platforms.
Provided subject matter expertise on all courses, materials, and lesson plans.
Delivered top-quality training documentation, manuals, and tools addressing needs of specific specialist groups.
Effectively implemented best training practices and adult learning principles in planning and creation of instructional materials.
Reached out to vendors to evaluate available curriculums and associated materials.
Planned and monitored implementation of technology-based learning programs.
Contributed to development of comprehensive employee training courses.
Developed workforce training programs to improve organizational efficiency.
Summer School Coordinator
Kenosha Unified School District
03.2002 - 08.2002
Maintained a safe and nurturing environment for students attending summer school programming.
Developed positive relationships with parents, fostering open communication about student progress and program details.
Recruited trained, and supervised a dedicated team of educators and support staff for the smooth functioning of summer school sessions.
Ensured compliance with local education regulations while maintaining high standards within the curriculum.
Evaluated program effectiveness through regular assessments, refining approaches as necessary to optimize results.
Encouraged a positive atmosphere among students, staff, and parents by emphasizing the benefits of summer learning opportunities.
Collaborated with teachers and staff to ensure the successful execution of summer school programs.
Liaised with community partners to secure resources and support for various aspects of the summer school program.
Enhanced student learning experiences by developing and implementing engaging summer school curriculums.
Managed budgets and resources, ensuring the optimal use of funds for various summer school initiatives.
Monitored student progress, providing timely feedback to facilitate continuous improvement in academic performance.
Facilitated professional development opportunities for staff members, fostering growth in teaching techniques and subject matter expertise.
Coordinated school facility use with maintenance personnel to achieve equitable access.
Coordinated staff and student activities to promote a safe and productive learning environment.
Managed budgets and resources for educational programs.
Verified student grades, attendance and schedules.
Proven record of developing and implementing school policies to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
Allocated school budgets and solicited additional funding from grant programs with well-written applications.
Prepared school budget and submitted to school board with recommendations for hiring, capital expenditures, and cost-saving initiatives.
Learning Specialist
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
07.1997 - 06.2001
Maintained inclusive learning environment to enable students to gain maximum benefit from lessons.
Supported struggling students with targeted interventions, resulting in improved academic performance.
Encouraged critical thinking skills by incorporating problem-solving exercises into daily lessons, better preparing students for real-life challenges beyond academia.
Served as a liaison between school administration and faculty, facilitating open communication channels for addressing concerns or suggestions.
Implemented innovative teaching techniques to keep students engaged and motivated throughout the learning process.
Assessed student progress through ongoing evaluations, adjusting instructional approaches as needed for optimal results.
Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary units, providing students with a well-rounded educational experience.
Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas of improvement and adjust teaching strategies accordingly, enhancing student outcomes.
Fostered a positive learning environment by incorporating diverse teaching methods that cater to different learning styles.
Championed a growth mindset within the classroom, instilling a belief in students that they have the ability to overcome challenges and achieve their goals through hard work and perseverance.
Promoted active engagement in lessons through hands-on activities and group projects, boosting overall class participation.
Collaborated with colleagues to enhanced student retention by implementing personalized learning strategies and tailored lesson plans.
Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
Prepared instructional materials for group and one-on-one use to comply with established curriculum.
Increased collaboration among teachers by organizing professional development workshops and sharing best practices.
Mentored new teachers, sharing valuable insights on effective classroom management strategies and instructional techniques.
Contributed to curriculum development efforts, ensuring alignment with state standards and educational objectives.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in education and enhance personal growth as an educator.
Integrated real-world examples into lessons, making content more relatable and engaging for students.
Facilitated small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
Coordinated regular meetings to share and analyze student performance data and success plans with colleagues and parents.
Provided professional development training to educate faculty and staff on laws and regulations governing special education.
Utilized technology to create meaningful lessons that engage students.
Mentored new teachers on student progress monitoring and legal document preparation.
Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
Internal Accelerated Schools Coach
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
06.1997 - 06.2001
Enhanced team performance by developing and implementing effective coaching strategies.
Offered constructive feedback to clients to help reach goals.
Analyzed client feedback to adjust coaching sessions accordingly.
Built and maintained positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, such as parents, school volunteers and outside agencies.
Spearheaded professional development initiatives, fostering an environment of continuous growth for staff members.
Oversaw curriculum design process to ensure alignment with state standards and best practices in education.
Improved student test scores with adoption of new curriculum focused on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Improved student academic performance with targeted intervention programs for at-risk youths.
Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
Analyzed standardized test results to identify areas of improvement in instruction methods and curriculum content.
Enhanced teacher effectiveness through regular classroom observations and feedback sessions.
Presented research findings at conferences, furthering the institution’s reputation for excellence in education.
Elem. Summer School Teacher of Reading and Math
Kenosha Unified School District
06.1987 - 08.1997
Assessed student progress and provided constructive feedback, enabling students to make continuous improvements.
Managed classroom behavior effectively using positive reinforcement strategies, cultivating an inclusive and respectful learning community.
Implemented reading and writing workshops to increase student literacy and support school reading programs.
Devised and implemented strategies to create and maintain cohesive school community within virtual classroom setting.
Provided individualized support for students, resulting in improved academic performance and increased confidence.
Catered to needs of students with learning disabilities by providing extra assistance.
Prepared quizzes, tests and examinations to gauge how well students were learning.
Created and implemented curriculum and lesson plans to cover required material.
Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lessons, fostering connections between course subjects.
Reviewed curriculum and devised alternate approaches to presenting lessons to increase student understanding.
Enhanced student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and group projects into lesson plans.
Boosted students'' critical thinking skills through the use of inquiry-based learning strategies.
Utilized data-driven instruction methods to analyze student performance trends and adjust teaching strategies accordingly for maximum impact on learning outcomes.
Built positive relationships with students, parents and team members to achieve smooth and productive program experience.
English Teacher
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
07.1989 - 06.1997
Developed innovative lesson plans to engage students in English language learning.
Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
Assessed student progress and provided feedback to improve performance and establish academic success.
Improved classroom management by implementing consistent routines and clear expectations for behavior.
Planned dynamic lessons to increase student comprehension of books and literary concepts.
Utilized multimedia strategies and technology to convey information in fresh and interesting ways.
Prepared comprehensive English curriculum for multiple classes.
Worked with other teachers to support struggling students and provide thorough help to rectify comprehension issues.
Promoted a positive learning environment by modeling respect, empathy, and active listening skills during all interactions with students.
Designed and implemented assessments to measure student progress in English language learning.
Assisted struggling students through targeted interventions, leading to increased academic success.
Created and implemented activities to foster critical thinking skills of students.
Implemented project-based learning activities that encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
Kept classroom organized, clean and safe for students and visitors.
Developed strong relationships with parents and guardians, fostering open communication regarding student progress and needs.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to remain current on educational trends and research-based strategies for instruction.
Increased student motivation by providing timely feedback and recognizing individual achievements.
Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learner needs, ensuring all students had equal access to education opportunities.
Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating visual aids and hands-on activities in lessons.
Participated in professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date on teaching best practices and enhance educator skills.
Designed and facilitated group projects to foster teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary curriculum, resulting in enriched learning experiences for students.
Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas of need and implement targeted strategies for improvement.
Attended department meetings to develop and update course curricula.
Led after-school tutoring sessions for students needing extra support or enrichment opportunities, resulting in improved academic outcomes.
Served as an advisor for extracurricular clubs or organizations, contributing to the overall development of well-rounded students.
Mentored new teachers within the department, sharing best practices and offering guidance on effective teaching methods.
Contributed to development of school's English curriculum, ensuring it met learning objectives and standards.
Promoted critical analysis and interpretation skills through in-depth discussions of literary works.
Improved English proficiency through immersive language activities and real-life conversation practice.
Enhanced students' reading comprehension with tailored literature assignments.
Facilitated student-led discussions, encouraging critical thinking and effective communication skills.
Engaged parents and guardians in educational process through regular communication and meetings.
Engaged parents and guardians in their children's education through regular communication and involvement opportunities.
Developed and executed detailed lesson plans, aligning with curriculum standards and student needs.
Coordinated with school's special education team to adapt lessons for students with learning differences, ensuring inclusive learning environment.
Increased students' test scores with strategic review sessions and personalized feedback.
Collaborated with colleagues to integrate cross-disciplinary approaches into teaching, enriching students' educational experience.
Produced engaging lesson plans and activities to help students master learning objectives.
Fostered love for reading by curating classroom library with wide range of genres and authors.
Promoted culture of inclusion, respect and collaboration in classroom.
Established and maintained professional relationships with students, staff, parents and community members.
Assessed and evaluated student performance through use of standardized testing.
Developed and implemented variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse needs of students.
Built variety of formative and summative assessments to measure student progress.
Created and maintained safe and orderly classroom environment conducive to learning.
Assisted in development of extracurricular activities and special events.
Utilized data to inform instructional decisions and personalize learning.
Cross Categorical Special Ed. Teacher
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
07.1987 - 06.1989
Designed engaging activities that targeted specific skill gaps for struggling learners, resulting in increased academic achievement over time.
Reduced disruptive behavior in the classroom by establishing clear expectations and implementing effective classroom management strategies.
Evaluated student performance consistently, using various assessment methods to measure growth and inform future instruction.
Enhanced student learning by implementing differentiated instruction techniques tailored to individual needs.
Promoted parent involvement in their child''s education by organizing workshops on topics such as positive reinforcement strategies at home or ways to support academic success outside of school hours.
Created a safe and inclusive learning environment that promoted respect, empathy, and understanding among students.
Developed strong relationships with parents, fostering open communication about student progress and goals.
Served as a liaison between general education teachers and special education staff to ensure seamless integration of accommodations for students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms.
Supported students'' social-emotional growth through one-on-one counseling sessions focused on conflict resolution, self-awareness, and goal-setting strategies.
Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in special education teaching techniques.
Implemented data-driven instruction, analyzing assessment results to identify areas of improvement for both individual students and overall curriculum planning.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
Encouraged students to take ownership of learning by providing choices.
Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
Partnered with standard education teachers from across academic departments.
Planned daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
Monitored student performance to evaluate effectiveness of instructional strategies.
Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
Provided emotional support to students and families.
Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.
Promoted memory, cognition and language development with hands-on activities and individualized instruction.
Applied proven strategies to improve students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills.
Special Ed. Teacher for the Emotional Distrurbed
Hillcrest TIME Program, KUSD
07.1985 - 06.1987
Supported students'' social-emotional growth through one-on-one counseling sessions focused on conflict resolution, self-awareness, and goal-setting strategies.
Enhanced student learning by implementing differentiated instruction techniques tailored to individual needs.
Reduced disruptive behavior in the classroom by establishing clear expectations and implementing effective classroom management strategies.
Created a safe and inclusive learning environment that promoted respect, empathy, and understanding among students.
Implemented data-driven instruction, analyzing assessment results to identify areas of improvement for both individual students and overall curriculum planning.
Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in special education teaching techniques.
Designed engaging activities that targeted specific skill gaps for struggling learners, resulting in increased academic achievement over time.
Developed strong relationships with parents, fostering open communication about student progress and goals.
Improved student engagement and retention through creative lesson planning and consistent feedback.
Evaluated student performance consistently, using various assessment methods to measure growth and inform future instruction.
Promoted parent involvement in their child''s education by organizing workshops on topics such as positive reinforcement strategies at home or ways to support academic success outside of school hours.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Led activities that developed students' physical, emotional, and social growth.
Encouraged students to take ownership of learning by providing choices.
Planned daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
Collaborated with other educators to develop instructional strategies.
Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
Developed Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.
Applied proven strategies to improve students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills.
Promoted memory, cognition and language development with hands-on activities and individualized instruction.
Self-Contained Special Ed. Teacher
Lance Middle School, KUSD
08.1982 - 06.1985
Created a safe and inclusive learning environment that promoted respect, empathy, and understanding among students.
Designed engaging activities that targeted specific skill gaps for struggling learners, resulting in increased academic achievement over time.
Improved student engagement and retention through creative lesson planning and consistent feedback.
Served as a liaison between general education teachers and special education staff to ensure seamless integration of accommodations for students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms.
Developed strong relationships with parents, fostering open communication about student progress and goals.
Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in special education teaching techniques.
Implemented data-driven instruction, analyzing assessment results to identify areas of improvement for both individual students and overall curriculum planning.
Reduced disruptive behavior in the classroom by establishing clear expectations and implementing effective classroom management strategies.
Supported students'' social-emotional growth through one-on-one counseling sessions focused on conflict resolution, self-awareness, and goal-setting strategies.
Promoted parent involvement in their child''s education by organizing workshops on topics such as positive reinforcement strategies at home or ways to support academic success outside of school hours.
Enhanced student learning by implementing differentiated instruction techniques tailored to individual needs.
Evaluated student performance consistently, using various assessment methods to measure growth and inform future instruction.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
Encouraged students to take ownership of learning by providing choices.
Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
Facilitated small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
Planned daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
Conducted assessments of students to determine individual needs.
Collaborated with other educators to develop instructional strategies.
Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
Designed individual education plans to encourage student growth according to different learning abilities and needs.
Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
Developed Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
Provided emotional support to students and families.
Education
Strategic Planning Facilitator Training -
Cambridge Group
Philadelphia, PA
04.2007
Certification in School Leadership Academy XV -
National Staff Development Council
Philadelphia, PA
12.2005
Certification in Principalship And Curriculum -
Concordia University
Mequon, WI
05.2002
Master of Arts - Teacher Leadership And Clsrm Guidance/Counseling
Carthge College
Kenosha
05.1991
Additional Certification - Special Education For Learning Disabilities
Carthage College
Kenosha, WI
05.1988
Bachelor of Science - Elementary K- 8 And Special Education K-12
Central Michigan University
Mt. Pleasant, MI
05.1982
Skills
Student and Teacher Engagement
Teamwork and Collaboration
Problem-solving abilities
Critical Thinking
Relationship Building
Professionalism
Educational leadership
Teaching strategies
Adult Learning Theory
Curriculum Development
Classroom Instruction
Data Analysis
Accomplishments
Empowered staff to become the top performing middle school in Kenosha Unified School District since 2015.
Reader for Corwin Press, 2004.
Consultant for Bryant School District, AK, 2004. Dimensions of Learning (Marzano) Classroom instruction that Works (Marzano)
Reader and Reviewer for Great Source Publication, 2002.
Conference Presenter: Accelerated Schools National Conference, Austin, TX, January, 2002. "School-Wide Enrichment - Academies of Inquiry and Talent Development"
Conference Presenter: Accelerated Schools National Conference, Las Vegas, Nv January, 2001. "Planning and Implementing Accelerated Schools Project and Academies of Inquiry and Talent Development"
Conference Presenter: World Gifted and Talented Conference, August, 2001 "Comprehensive Schools Reform Grant" "KUSD Technology Grant"
Conference Presenter: World Gifted and Talented Children Conference, August, 2001. "School-Wide Enrichment - Academies of inquiry and Talent Development"
Timeline
Principal, Mary Lou Mahone Middle School
Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD)
07.2012 - 06.2024
Assistant Principal, Mary Lou Mahone Middle School
Kenosha Unified School Distrit (KUSD)
07.2009 - 06.2012
Coordinator of Professional Learning
Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD)
07.2007 - 06.2009
Co-Director of Chiwaukee Academy
Kenosha Unified School District
05.2003 - 08.2009
Summer School Coordinator
Kenosha Unified School District
03.2002 - 08.2002
Teacher Consultant
Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD)
07.2001 - 06.2007
Learning Specialist
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
07.1997 - 06.2001
Internal Accelerated Schools Coach
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
06.1997 - 06.2001
College of Education Adjunct Professor
Carthage College
09.1996 - Current
English Teacher
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
07.1989 - 06.1997
Cross Categorical Special Ed. Teacher
John Bullen Middle School, KUSD
07.1987 - 06.1989
Elem. Summer School Teacher of Reading and Math
Kenosha Unified School District
06.1987 - 08.1997
Special Ed. Teacher for the Emotional Distrurbed
Hillcrest TIME Program, KUSD
07.1985 - 06.1987
Self-Contained Special Ed. Teacher
Lance Middle School, KUSD
08.1982 - 06.1985
Strategic Planning Facilitator Training -
Cambridge Group
Certification in School Leadership Academy XV -
National Staff Development Council
Certification in Principalship And Curriculum -
Concordia University
Master of Arts - Teacher Leadership And Clsrm Guidance/Counseling
Carthge College
Additional Certification - Special Education For Learning Disabilities
Carthage College
Bachelor of Science - Elementary K- 8 And Special Education K-12