Tim Donfris
Woodridge,IL
Summary
Dedicated educational paraprofessional committed to fostering a nurturing environment that prioritizes academic and emotional growth for all students. Proven experience in supporting diverse learners, including those with special needs, while collaborating effectively with teachers to enhance classroom dynamics. Strong leadership skills developed through roles such as camp director and restaurant manager, demonstrating the ability to build passionate teams and manage operations with professionalism and efficiency. Committed to creating safe spaces for young people, ensuring comfort in seeking guidance and developing essential social skills such as respect and patience.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Paraprofessional/ Short Term Substitute
Blythe Park Elementary School
08.2021 - Current
- Worked as a one-on-one paraprofessional, as well as assisted the learning and development of multiple students in small group settings
- Created and facilitated lessons and supported the individual needs of a diverse group of learners
- Demonstrated flexibility in a variety of settings, including interaction on the floor or at students' work station, during academics, and outside or at community outings.
- Built meaningful relationships with the young students I worked with
- Was attuned and responsive to the needs, interests, and learning styles of the children I worked with
- Assisted teachers in implementing individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Supported classroom management by maintaining a positive learning environment.
- Organized and supervised small group activities to enhance student engagement.
- Monitored student behavior, providing feedback to improve social skills and academic performance.
Restaurant Manager
Randall Roadhouse
05.2013 - 10.2023
- Promotes a positive atmosphere that goes above and beyond to guarantee each customer receives exceptional food and service
- Formally recognizes outstanding staff performance to boost company morale and productivity
- Maintains a safe working and guest environment to reduce the risk of injury and accidents
- Quickly identifies problems and skillfully resolves incidents to the satisfaction of involved parties
- Trained and developed staff, fostering a collaborative and efficient team environment.
- Developed marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and attract new customers.
- Managed vendor relationships to negotiate favorable pricing and ensure timely delivery of supplies.
Paraprofessional/ Short Term Substitute
Soaring Eagle Academy
08.2017 - 02.2018
- Worked as a one-on-one paraprofessional, as well as assisted the learning and development of multiple students in small group settings
- Created and facilitated lessons and supported the individual needs of a diverse group of learners
- Demonstrated flexibility in a variety of settings, including interaction on the floor or at students' work station, during academics, and outside or at community outings.
- Built meaningful relationships with the young students I worked with
- Was attuned and responsive to the needs, interests, and learning styles of the children I worked with
Camp Counselor
North Riverside Recreation
06.2007 - 08.2015
- Encouraged good behaviors using the positive reinforcement method
- Established a safe play environment for children
- Organized and engaged in recreational activities such as games and puzzles
- Encouraged curiosity, exploration and problem-solving appropriate to children's development levels
- Used strategies to meet the needs of campers with disabilities
Camp Director
North Riverside Recreation
06.2013 - 08.2014
- Communicated openly with children’s parents about daily activities and behaviors
- Resolved staff and parent disputes through constructive problem-solving techniques
- Identified signs of potential emotional or developmental concerns in children and brought them to parents' or guardians' attention
- Maintained accurate and detailed records, including staff and child files on enrollment, attendance, health and safety, emergency contact information and incident reports
- Designed monthly activity schedules
Sales manager
RadioShack
09.2010 - 04.2013
- Supported the sales team, comprised of three associates, in writing proposals and closing contracts
- Planned and directed staff training and performance evaluations
- Built relationships with customers and the community to establish long-term business growth
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
National Louis University
Chicago, IL05-2026
Some College (No Degree) -
Illinois State University
Normal, ILHigh School Diploma -
Riverside-Brookfield High School
Riverside, IL06.2008
Skills
- Innovative thinking
- Maintains focus during challenging circumstances
- Effective team leader
- Dedicated work ethic
- Experienced in managing conflicts
- Facilitates parent communication
- Strong focus on accuracy
- Detail-oriented organization
- Accessible communication style
- Skilled in behavior management strategies
- Clear communication
- Assisting students with diverse learning requirements
- Targeted support for small groups and individuals
- Steady and patient presence
- Data collection
- Effective classroom management
Certification
Educator License with Stipulations (Paraprofessional) June 2017- Present
Timeline
Paraprofessional/ Short Term Substitute
Blythe Park Elementary School
08.2021 - Current
Paraprofessional/ Short Term Substitute
Soaring Eagle Academy
08.2017 - 02.2018
Camp Director
North Riverside Recreation
06.2013 - 08.2014
Restaurant Manager
Randall Roadhouse
05.2013 - 10.2023
Sales manager
RadioShack
09.2010 - 04.2013
Camp Counselor
North Riverside Recreation
06.2007 - 08.2015
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
National Louis University
Some College (No Degree) -
Illinois State University
High School Diploma -
Riverside-Brookfield High School