With a proven track record at Arlington ISD, I excel in behavioral assessment and fostering inclusive classrooms. My strategies have significantly enhanced student engagement and achievement through hands-on learning and effective positive reinforcement. Skilled in life skills education, I embody active, achievement-focused teaching, contributing to a supportive and dynamic learning environment.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
Work History
SpEd Teacher
Arlington ISD
Turning Point Secondary
08.2024 - Current
Increased student engagement by incorporating hands-on activities and real-world examples in lesson plans.
Partnered with parents and guardians to develop strategies for supporting their child''s learning at home, enhancing overall student success.
Conducted regular assessments of student progress, adjusting instructional methods as needed to optimize learning outcomes.
Improved student reading comprehension and fluency through targeted interventions and small group instruction.
Designed instructional materials tailored to meet the unique learning styles of each student, resulting in increased understanding of course content.
Utilized data-driven decision making to identify areas of improvement in curriculum planning and instructional practices.
Mentored new teachers in best practices for special education instruction, contributing to a supportive professional community within the school.
Social Studies Teacher
Arlington ISD
Turning Point Secondary
08.2021 - 08.2024
Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans that connected social studies content to other subject areas.
Improved student comprehension by utilizing diverse teaching methods and materials tailored to individual learning styles.
Developed a positive classroom environment by fostering open communication, respect, and collaboration among students.
Created lesson plans and made adjustments based on overall class performance throughout year.
Utilized technology to enhance student education and grasp of materials.
Consulted with teachers in other disciplines to identify and adopt successful instructional strategies.
Implemented project-based learning activities that encouraged students to apply their knowledge to real-life situations, enhancing problem-solving skills and deepening understanding of course concepts.
Gave assignments, graded work and regularly discussed performance with students.
Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in social studies education and incorporating new strategies into lessons.
Implemented prepared lesson plans in established classrooms.
Established and communicated clear objectives for all educational activities.
Enhanced critical thinking skills for students through engaging debates and inquiry-based activities.
Devised lesson plans reflecting student educational, cultural and language diversity.
Planned learning activities that provided students with opportunities to observe, question and investigate social studies topics.
Cultivated strong relationships with parents, maintaining open lines of communication to support student progress at home.
Established and supported positive educational environment for student learning.
Established and communicated clear learning objectives and expectations to students.
Researched latest teaching techniques and incorporated into lesson delivery to improve concept acquisition.
Maintained awareness of relevant current events and quickly incorporated study into curriculum.
Completed documentation of attendance, grades, and other required details.
Used computers, audio-visual aids and other equipment to supplement presentations.
Planned and implemented integrated Social Studies lessons to meet Common Core Curriculum Standards.
Served as a mentor for new teachers, offering guidance and support in the development of effective teaching practices.
Attended department meetings to develop and update course curricula.
Increased student success rates with regular assessments and timely feedback on assignments and performance.
Discussed important historical figures, dates and events which helped shape modern world.
Completed student progress reports mid-term to notify students and parents of strengths and areas of improvement.
Helped students explore concepts with engaging, learning-focused activities.
Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
Shifted between formal and informal methods of teaching to keep students engaged.
Evaluated students' understanding of course material through examinations and in-depth essay writing.
Designed detailed learning plans for struggling students based on test, homework and assignment records.
Participated in department meetings to provide input to colleagues about student achievement and improvement.
Worked with staff members and teachers to design comprehensive and individualized plans to optimize student education.
Communicated frequently with parents, students, and faculty to provide feedback and discuss instructional strategies.
Prepared quizzes, tests and examinations to gauge how well students were learning.
Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
Created lessons and online testing materials to facilitate remote learning.
Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
Met with students, parents and administrators to address and resolve students' behavioral and academic issues.
Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.
High School ELA Teacher
Arlington ISD
Turning Point High School/Secondary School
08.2003 - 08.2021
Promoted a growth mindset in students by setting high expectations and providing support for individual academic goals.
Developed and maintained positive relationships with parents, fostering open communication about student progress and achievements.
Monitored student progress closely using formative assessments, adjusting instructional approaches as needed for optimal learning outcomes.
Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to address diverse learning needs and ensure student success.
Helped students develop academic, social and emotional skills for long-term success.
Evaluated academic skills of each student through verbal assessments, graded assignments, and standardized tests.
Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.
Promoted effective verbal and written communication through listening, speaking, reading, and writing practice.
Encouraged independent thought, good judgment, and expression of original ideas.
Supported students in development of skills and strategies to become independent and successful learners.
Developed and implemented variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse needs of students.
Encouraged students to take active role in learning and academic success.
Established and maintained professional relationships with students, staff, parents and community members.
Promoted culture of inclusion, respect and collaboration in classroom.
Produced engaging lesson plans and activities to help students master learning objectives.
Built variety of formative and summative assessments to measure student progress.
Created and maintained safe and orderly classroom environment conducive to learning.
Supported development of individualized education plans for students with special needs.
Provided guidance and mentoring to students regarding academic, social and emotional issues.
Middle School ELA Teacher
Grand Prairie ISD
Grand Prairie AEP
08.2002 - 08.2003
Promoted a growth mindset within the classroom, encouraging students to embrace challenges and learn from setbacks.
Prepared students for state assessments by incorporating test-taking strategies into daily lessons, contributing to increased pass rates among the class population.
Utilized data-driven strategies to differentiate instruction for diverse learners, improving overall student achievement.
Implemented project-based learning experiences to promote critical thinking skills and real-world applications of course content.
Increased writing proficiency through targeted feedback and individualized instruction.
Developed strong relationships with parents, maintaining open lines of communication and encouraging involvement in their child''s education.
Supported English Language Learners through targeted scaffolding techniques, enhancing language acquisition and academic performance.
Enhanced reading comprehension by implementing diverse literature selections and engaging activities.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with educational trends and enhance teaching effectiveness.
Fostered a positive classroom environment with clear expectations and consistent routines.
Evaluated academic skills of each student through verbal assessments, graded assignments, and standardized tests.
Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
Promoted effective verbal and written communication through listening, speaking, reading, and writing practice.
Helped students develop academic, social and emotional skills for long-term success.
Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.
Taught age-appropriate spelling techniques, grammar rules, and language skills.
Encouraged independent thought, good judgment, and expression of original ideas.
Devised and implemented classroom management strategies, maintaining safe and pleasant learning environment.
Established positive rapport with all students and parents through home calls, emails, and Parent Teacher Club.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Music Performance
The New England Conservatory
Boston, MA
05-1989
Bachelor of Arts - Music Performance
Texas Christian University
Ft. Worth Tx
Associate of Arts - General Studies And Music Performance
Richland College
Dallas, TX
Associate of Arts - General Studies And Music Performance
Richland College
Dallas, TX
High School Diploma -
Richardson High School
Richardson, TX
05-1978
Skills
Behavioral Assessment Expertise
Effective Inclusion Techniques
Life Skills Education
Effective Positive Reinforcement
Certification
Generalist Certificate in Special Education - Council for Exceptional Children.
Special Education Credential - [State] Department of Education.
Timeline
SpEd Teacher
Arlington ISD
08.2024 - Current
Social Studies Teacher
Arlington ISD
08.2021 - 08.2024
High School ELA Teacher
Arlington ISD
08.2003 - 08.2021
Middle School ELA Teacher
Grand Prairie ISD
08.2002 - 08.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Music Performance
The New England Conservatory
Bachelor of Arts - Music Performance
Texas Christian University
Associate of Arts - General Studies And Music Performance
Richland College
Associate of Arts - General Studies And Music Performance