Terri Thomsen
Janesville,IA
Summary
Experienced Middle School Art Teacher successful at building positive teacher-parent relationships to support student success. Open and clear communicator and creative problem-solver. Skilled in introducing students to diverse mediums, developing lesson plans and assessing student progress. Proficient in fostering imaginative environment and making learning fun for all participants in diverse classroom settings.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Middle School Art Teacher
Hoover Middle School
08.2001 - Current
- Developed and implemented interesting and interactive learning mediums to increase student understanding of course materials.
- Routinely conferenced with students' parents regarding in-class issues and learning interruptions to discuss solutions.
- Established and enforced rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among a class of up to 42 students.
- Received high remarks for the creativity of classroom lesson plans and instructional techniques from students, parents and faculty.
- Created and enforced student-based hands-on curriculum to promote interest and receptive learning.
- Employed group projects and collaboration techniques to encourage student learning and build community within the classroom.
- Attended a variety of professional development workshops centered on learning goals, classroom management, student motivation and engaging learning activities.
- Encouraged students to be understanding with others.
- Used the positive reinforcement method along with PBIS to redirect poor behavior.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Implemented a variety of art materials and techniques into weekly art projects.
- Developed and facilitated after-school art clubs and activities for students to hone skills.
- Consistently met schedules and deadlines for all illustration projects.
- Clearly communicated updates and concerns to the appropriate team members and administrators.
- Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students
- Fostered a safe and inclusive classroom environment where students felt comfortable expressing their ideas without fear of judgment or ridicule
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
- Managed art supplies inventory efficiently, ensuring availability of necessary materials while staying within budget constraints
- Mentored new teachers in effective instructional strategies and classroom management techniques, contributing to a supportive work environment
Art Teacher, K-12
Dows Community Schools
08.1997 - 05.1999
- Taught a variety of art projects, including photography, screen printing, drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture and jewelry.
- Created displays of student artwork for the community to view.
- Supervised about 30 students on art museum and University field trips.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
Education
Master of Arts - Art Education
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA07.2007
Bachelor of Arts - Art Education
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA05.1997
Skills
- Motivating students
- Interactive teaching/learning
- Innovative lesson planning
- Classroom management
- Leadership role in PBIS
- Exploratory Team Leader
- Infinite Campus Trainer
- Differentiated instruction
- Parent/teacher conferences
- Goal Setting and Implementation
- Critical Thinking
- Active participation in local contests, events, and after school activities
Accomplishments
Plan Development
- Planned and conducted activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provided students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
Goal Setting
- Established clear objectives for all lessons/projects and communicated with students, achieving a total understanding of grading rubric and overall class expectations.
Technology Integration
- Increased student participation by introducing relevant computer programs and exercises to encourage student interest and enjoyment.
Parent Communication
- Regularly conferenced with parents to discuss student issues and course weakness areas.
Creative Lesson Planning
- Motivated more experienced art students to engage with course materials for advanced study through more challenging projects that require re-using non-conventional materials in often a collaborative work-study.
Pre-service Teacher Training
- Mentored 7 Student Teachers and many field experience placements
- UNI Field Experience Site Coordinator
Timeline
Middle School Art Teacher
Hoover Middle School
08.2001 - Current
Art Teacher, K-12
Dows Community Schools
08.1997 - 05.1999
Master of Arts - Art Education
University of Northern Iowa
Bachelor of Arts - Art Education
University of Northern Iowa
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