Valerie Ballek
Summary
Dynamic educator with a proven track record of creating engaging learning experiences and fostering strong relationships with students, seeks to leverage teaching experience in a new role. Enhanced student engagement through project-based learning and differentiated instruction, resulting in improved academic outcomes. Committed to creating inclusive classrooms that support diverse learning needs and promote a positive school climate.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Teacher - Grade 1
East Hampton Public Schools
08.2023 - Current
- Incorporated social-emotional learning into daily lessons, promoting empathy, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making among students.
- Developed strong relationships with parents, maintaining open communication to support student success both inside and outside the classroom.
- Utilized formative assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly for optimal learning outcomes.
- Improved students' reading skills by implementing diverse teaching strategies and materials.
Teacher - Grade 2
East Hampton Public Schools
08.2013 - 06.2023
- Planned, prepared, and taught lessons in all subject areas for classes of 20-24 students
- Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning.
- Improved student engagement by incorporating interactive learning technologies into lesson plans.
- Collaborated with colleagues across multiple grade levels to develop an alternate math curriculum for the district to implement.
- Implemented new curriculum programs in reading, writing, and math that incorporated a workshop style of teaching and learning.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child's educational journey.
- Organized extracurricular activities such as clubs or field trips that enriched students' learning experiences outside traditional classroom settings.
- Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate.
- Created lessons and online testing materials to facilitate remote learning.
- Lead summer camps of about 10-15 students with a focus on STEAM
Teacher - Grade 5
East Hampton Public Schools
08.2011 - 06.2013
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, ensuring all students were able to access the curriculum and make progress in their learning.
- Established clear expectations for behavior and classroom management, creating a respectful and productive learning atmosphere.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences to stay current in educational trends.
- Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
- Boosted student confidence through consistent encouragement and positive reinforcement, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Counselor/Teacher for Children With Autism
Wawa Education & Retreat Center
06.2007 - 08.2007
- Improved resident satisfaction through consistent communication, empathy, and understanding of their unique challenges.
- Guided residents in developing skills and strategies for dealing with problems.
- Implemented behavioral modification strategies to help residents develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- Used cognitive behavior therapy to assist residents in recognizing and redirecting poor habits.
- Implemented individualized counseling plans for residents to meet short-term and long-term goals.
Education
Master of Arts - Education
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT05-2011
Bachelor of Science - Education
University of Connecticut
05-2010
Skills
- Classroom organization
- Parent-teacher communication
- Project-based learning
- Behavior management
- Curriculum design
- Microsoft Office
- Lesson planning
- Google Suite
- Inclusive
- Collaborative
Timeline
Teacher - Grade 1
East Hampton Public Schools
08.2023 - Current
Teacher - Grade 2
East Hampton Public Schools
08.2013 - 06.2023
Teacher - Grade 5
East Hampton Public Schools
08.2011 - 06.2013
Counselor/Teacher for Children With Autism
Wawa Education & Retreat Center
06.2007 - 08.2007
Master of Arts - Education
University of Connecticut
Bachelor of Science - Education
University of Connecticut
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