Velma Garcia
Edinburg,TX
Summary
Dedicated educator with a proven track record at Canterbury Elementary School, excelling in fostering student independence and enhancing learning through alternative methods and classroom organization. Leveraged positive reinforcement and curriculum implementation skills to significantly improve student engagement and achievement. Continuously sought professional development to master innovative teaching strategies, ensuring inclusive and effective education. Equipped with an extensive background in versatile education environments.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Kindergarten Paraprofessional
Canterbury Elementary School
08.2019 - Current
- Encouraged and prepared students to become independent readers through systematic, multi-sensory instruction in phonemic awareness and decoding skills.
- Prepared instructional materials, including visual aids, hands-on resources, and multimedia tools, to support teaching objectives effectively.
- Played games with students to increase understanding of subjects.
- Applied evidence-based practices for classroom management to enhance learning results.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress and communicated regularly with parents about their child's development.
- Helped children build essential social skills through group activities and structured playtime sessions.
- Implemented positive reinforcement strategies to promote good behavior and foster a supportive learning atmosphere.
- Utilized differentiated instruction techniques when working with diverse learners, catering to various learning styles for maximum comprehension.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Truman Elementary School
09.2015 - 05.2019
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
- Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
- Offered student support through special accommodations, extra assistance, and assessments.
- Assisted in the implementation of effective behavior management techniques, resulting in a more focused and positive classroom environment.
- Maintained a positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.
- Oversaw class of students in the absence of the instructor.
- Set up visual aids, equipment, and classroom displays to support the teacher's lesson delivery.
- Supported students with various disabilities through one-on-one tutoring sessions, improving their understanding of course materials and concepts.
- Coordinated with teachers to create inclusive lesson plans that addressed the diverse needs of all learners within the classroom setting.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in special education instruction and support services.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology Minor in Generic Special Education
The University of Texas Pan American
Edinburg, TX01-2014
Skills
- Classroom Organization
- Parent-Teacher Communication
- Positive Reinforcement
- Motivating students
- Lesson Planning
- Learning Strategies
- Curriculum Implementation
- Alternative Learning Methods
Certification
Texas Teachers of Tomorrow Alternative Certification- Probationary Certificate Special education EC-12.
Timeline
Kindergarten Paraprofessional
Canterbury Elementary School
08.2019 - Current
Special Education Paraprofessional
Truman Elementary School
09.2015 - 05.2019
Texas Teachers of Tomorrow Alternative Certification- Probationary Certificate Special education EC-12.
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology Minor in Generic Special Education
The University of Texas Pan American
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