Tonia Cole Jones
Linden,NJ
Summary
Dedicated classroom teacher with sixteen years of experience fostering a love for learning in diverse student populations. Skilled in curriculum development, classroom management, and differentiated instruction. Passionate about integrating art into education to promote creativity and critical thinking skills. Transitioning into an art teacher role to inspire students through hands-on artistic exploration. Proficient in various art mediums and committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to express themselves. Excited to leverage teaching experience and artistic expertise to nurture creative thinkers.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Teacher, Grade 1
Paterson Public Schools
09.2018 - Current
- Collaborate with colleagues in PLC's/DTM/GLM to share best practices to create interdisciplinary units.
- Incorporate social-emotional learning into daily lessons through visual arts and self expression, promoting empathy, self-awareness, creativity, and responsible decision-making among students within Google Classroom.
- Develop strong relationships with parents to maintain open communication (ie. ClassDojo) to support student success both inside and outside the classroom.
- Enhance classroom management to establish a positive learning environment with clear expectations and consistent consequences.
- Mentor student teachers in effective instructional strategies and classroom management techniques.
- Support and assist School 1 through knowledge of various art forms to create props, signs, drawings, and graphic presentation for various school functions, activities, and programs
Kindergarten Teacher
Paterson Public Schools
09.2013 - 06.2018
- Built positive relationships with students and families for safe, trusted learning support.
- Enhanced classroom management by establishing clear expectations, rules, and routines.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Collaborated with colleagues to share resources, brainstorm ideas, and problem-solve challenges faced in the classroom environment.
CEIS (Coordinating Early Intervention Service)
Paterson Public Schools
09.2010 - 06.2015
- Improved child outcomes in Summer and Afterschool programs by monitoring progress and adjusting intervention strategies as needed
- Participated in Phonics First and Fundations-Wilson Language professional development opportunities relevant to early intervention best practices
- Collaborated with peers to develop comprehensive plans tailored to each child's unique needs.
Preschool Teacher
Paterson Public Schools
09.2007 - 06.2013
- Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
- Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
- Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
- Boosted children's social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through creative group activities and collaborative projects.
Education
Supervisor Certificate Program - Education
New Jersey City University
Jersey City, NJ12.2024
Master of Arts in Teaching/MAT: Special Education - Education
New Jersey City University
Jersey City, NJ06.2018
NJ Standard Certificate: Teacher PreK-3 - Education
Montclair State University
Montclair, NJ06.2004
BFA: Illustration/Communication Design - Art
Pratt Institute
Brooklyn, NY06.1994
Skills
- Classroom Management/Organization
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- Project-Based Learning/Teaching Skills
- Curriculum Design
- Creativity and Adaptability
- Cultural Competence
- Continued Learning and Professional Development
- Proficiency in Drawing/Digital Art/Painting
Additional Information
HONORS/AWARDS
- 2023 Google Apps for Educators/GAFE Certified Level 1
- 2018 NJTV featured in "Breakfast After the Bell Program" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AKIcEdLKyA&t=178s
- 2010 - 2011 Governor's Teacher Recognition - Teacher of the Year award
Timeline
Teacher, Grade 1
Paterson Public Schools
09.2018 - Current
Kindergarten Teacher
Paterson Public Schools
09.2013 - 06.2018
CEIS (Coordinating Early Intervention Service)
Paterson Public Schools
09.2010 - 06.2015
Preschool Teacher
Paterson Public Schools
09.2007 - 06.2013
Supervisor Certificate Program - Education
New Jersey City University
Master of Arts in Teaching/MAT: Special Education - Education
New Jersey City University
NJ Standard Certificate: Teacher PreK-3 - Education
Montclair State University
BFA: Illustration/Communication Design - Art
Pratt Institute
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