VIOLET D. TORRES
CHICAGO,IL
Summary
To obtain a full-time teaching position in a K -8th grade classroom. Professional educator with strong foundation in elementary teaching. Proven track record in fostering collaborative classroom environment and adapting to changing needs. Skilled in curriculum development, classroom management, and student engagement. Known for high standards and delivering measurable results.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
First - Fifth Grade Teacher
Chicago Public Schools: Webster Elementary School
08.2007 - Current
- Create an optimal learning environment filled with authentic student and teacher work
- Utilized Everyday Mathematics, Pearson Realize, and iReady math curriculums and implement an array of math activities including manipulatives
- Teach Amplify 4th and 5th grade units in science with other hands-on activities to boost Science ISA scores
- Integrate technology into instruction through programs such as IXL, iReady Pathways, and Freckle
- Collaborate with fellow department members for curriculum mapping
- Use a variety of strategies to teach math and science extended response
- Maintain Data Binder with current data used for grouping students and targeted instruction
- Implement daily behavior management plan based on developing proper decision making skills and personal responsibility
- Knowledgeable of RTI and maintains thorough Anecdotal notes and assessments
- Incorporated differentiated instruction techniques to meet the diverse needs of all learners within the classroom.
- Cultivated critical thinking skills among students by challenging them with complex problem-solving tasks and thought-provoking discussions.
- Improved classroom management by implementing positive reinforcement strategies and setting clear expectations for behavior.
- Mentored multiple new teachers on best practices for effective instruction and classroom management techniques as a CPS Instructional and Building Mentor
- Increased overall class participation by creating an inclusive environment that valued all students'' opinions and ideas.
- Participated in professional development workshops to stay current with educational best practices.
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
- Created lesson plans to correlate with state curriculum standards and devised educational programs to meet educational objectives.
- Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
- Maintained knowledge of school curricula, standards and policies to correctly prepare students for higher grade levels.
- Coached, mentored and evaluated student teachers for progress against program objectives.
- Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
- Teach for America Mentor Teacher
- Served as a Cooperating teacher for multiple clinical and student teachers
- Serve as member of the Instructional Leadership Team PPLC, Culture and Climate Co-Lead, Behavioral Health Team, and Chicago Teachers Union Representative
- Coordinator for Openlands garden grant; oversaw all aspects of planning and construction of garden and mosaic art component
Substitute Teacher
Loyola University Preschool Chicago
06.2013 - 08.2014
- Oversaw assistants and work-study students to foster a safe environment for 15-20 preschoolers ages 2-5 years old
- Planned and managed weekly themes and daily activities
- Built relationships with Loyola community, staff and parents
Education
Bachelors of Science - Elementary Education, Sociology
Northeastern Illinois University
Chicago, IL12.2006
Associates of Arts -
Oakton Community College
Des Plaines, IL06.2003
Skills
- Proficient with MAP
- Proficient with Microsoft Word
- Proficient with Microsoft Excel
- Proficient with Microsoft Power Point
- Basic Spanish
- Volunteering
- Leadership
- Committee Membership
- Collaborative learning
- Student Engagement
- Teaching Mathematics
- Science Instruction
- Growth Mindset
- Special Needs Support
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Classroom Management
- Team Collaboration
- Lesson Planning
- Differentiated Instruction
Certification
- Type 03 Elementary K-9
- Middle School Endorsement- Math, Science, and Social Studies pending
Activitiesinterestsskillsandabilities
- Proficient with MAP, Google Certified
- Ability to Speak Basic Spanish
- Volunteer with Boys and Girls Club, One Brick Community Rebuild, ETHS Reunion Committee, Chicago Youth Programs.
- Member of Alpha Psi Lambda; 15 Years of National Executive Board Experience
- Loyola University Greek Advisory Board Member.
Timeline
Substitute Teacher
Loyola University Preschool Chicago
06.2013 - 08.2014
First - Fifth Grade Teacher
Chicago Public Schools: Webster Elementary School
08.2007 - Current
Associates of Arts -
Oakton Community College
- Type 03 Elementary K-9
- Middle School Endorsement- Math, Science, and Social Studies pending
Bachelors of Science - Elementary Education, Sociology
Northeastern Illinois University
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