Tracy Montalvo
Cedar Rapids,IA
Summary
Dedicated Early Childhood Educator with over 15 years of experience working with infants through preschool-aged children in public schools, Head Start programs, and private centers. Experienced in inclusive education, IEP implementation, and developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned to the Iowa Early Learning Standards. Currently pursuing a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education with a Special Education Endorsement at Northwestern College (anticipated May 2026) while managing a household full time. Recognized for strong collaboration with families, colleagues, and special education teams to support holistic student growth. Skilled in lesson planning, data collection, progress monitoring, and fostering nurturing environments where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Preschool Teacher / Early Childhood Special Education (Conditional License)
College Community School District
01.2023 - 2024
- Taught in an inclusive preschool setting, supporting children with and without IEPs.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans according to Iowa Early Learning Standards for morning/afternoon session classrooms.
- Implemented individualized instruction aligned to IEP goals, collected and analyzed progress monitoring data.
- Collaborated with PLC teams for lesson planning, district common assessments, and Teaching Strategies GOLD data.
- Partnered with special education team members, related service providers, and families to support student growth.
- Fostered communication with parents to address goals and needs of children, strengthening home–school connections.
Lead Teacher
Lake Shore Learning Center
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Designed and implemented age-appropriate curriculum for eight infants (10–15 months), focusing on early language, motor, and social development.
- Created individualized care plans to meet developmental milestones and state licensing standards.
- Built strong relationships with families through daily reports and developmental conferences.
- Collaborated with co-teachers to maintain consistent routines and provide a safe, nurturing environment.
Early Start PreKindergarten Teacher
Springfield District 186/ELC
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Delivered instruction in a state-funded Pre-K program for 40 students, integrating ISBE Early Learning Standards into daily lessons.
- Differentiated instruction for diverse learners, including English Language Learners and students with IEPs.
- Conducted home visits to foster parent engagement and support family learning goals.
- Coordinated developmental screenings and referrals to ensure early intervention.
- Partnered with speech and occupational therapists to provide integrated support services.
Non-Public Title I Teacher
Springfield District 186
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Provided small-group literacy and math intervention for 20 K–3 students performing below grade level benchmarks.
- Designed and monitored progress assessments, documenting student growth for Title I compliance.
- Collaborated with classroom teachers to align intervention strategies with core curriculum.
- Communicated weekly with parents to reinforce strategies for reading and math at home.
Office Associate
Illinois Secretary of State
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Processed and audited license plate renewal applications with 100% accuracy and compliance.
- Streamlined recordkeeping systems for the Dealer’s Licensing Department, ensuring confidentiality.
- Assisted staff and customers with inquiries, improving workflow efficiency.
- Recognized for attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
Family/Child Educator
Family Development Services
01.2014 - 01.2014
- Led a full-day classroom of 20 preschoolers in a Head Start program, integrating social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development activities.
- Developed individualized learning goals for children based on ongoing assessment.
- Implemented family engagement activities to strengthen home–school partnerships.
- Ensured compliance with state quality standards and Head Start program guidelines.
One-on-One Educator
Private Home
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Designed and delivered individualized curriculum for three children (ages 6 weeks–4 years) in a home learning environment.
- Integrated early literacy, numeracy, and motor development activities into daily care routines.
- Supported social-emotional development through play-based strategies.
- Provided structured schedules to promote consistency and readiness for preschool transition.
Lead Teacher
The Goddard School
01.2010 - 01.2013
- Directed infant and toddler classrooms (6 weeks–24 months), managing up to 10 students with one assistant teacher.
- Implemented a research-based curriculum aligned with state licensing and corporate standards.
- Trained and mentored assistant teachers on best practices in early childhood care and education.
- Communicated with families daily and conducted developmental conferences twice annually.
- Assisted with school-wide leadership, including opening/closing responsibilities and enrollment support.
Teacher
Catch A Star Learning Center
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Designed lesson plans for a classroom of 20 preschoolers, fostering kindergarten readiness.
- Supported three infant/toddler classrooms, integrating sensory, motor, and language development activities.
- Collaborated with teaching teams to provide consistent routines and safe learning environments.
- Established positive relationships with families to encourage home–school collaboration.
Education
M.Ed. - Early Childhood Education with Special Education Endorsement
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA05-2026
B.A. - Early Childhood Education
Illinois College
Jacksonville, IL05-2009
Skills
- Lesson Planning
- Data Collection
- Collaboration
- IEP Implementation
- Family Communication
- Organizational Skills
- Writing Skills
Timeline
Preschool Teacher / Early Childhood Special Education (Conditional License)
College Community School District
01.2023 - 2024
Lead Teacher
Lake Shore Learning Center
01.2019 - 01.2020
Early Start PreKindergarten Teacher
Springfield District 186/ELC
01.2016 - 01.2019
Non-Public Title I Teacher
Springfield District 186
01.2015 - 01.2016
Office Associate
Illinois Secretary of State
01.2014 - 01.2015
Family/Child Educator
Family Development Services
01.2014 - 01.2014
One-on-One Educator
Private Home
01.2013 - 01.2014
Lead Teacher
The Goddard School
01.2010 - 01.2013
Teacher
Catch A Star Learning Center
01.2009 - 01.2010
M.Ed. - Early Childhood Education with Special Education Endorsement
Northwestern College
B.A. - Early Childhood Education
Illinois College
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