Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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Anna Cruz

Downers Grove,IL

Summary

Dedicated professional with a background in psychology and experience supporting students with autism, Down syndrome, and developmental disabilities. Skilled in implementing IEPs, BIPs, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology with a strong passion for bilingual intervention and culturally responsive care.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Paraprofessional

Amergis Healthcare
07.2024 - Current
  • Provided individualized and group support to 10-12 students with diverse needs, including Down Syndrome, Autism, and other neurological and behavioral disorders, ensuring inclusive learning environments.
  • Assisted in the implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs), modifying instruction to meet each student’s unique needs.
  • Led and assisted in classroom lessons and small group activities, fostering academic and social development in students ranging from elementary age.
  • Managed advanced behavioral challenges in a variety of settings, including de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques, ensuring student safety and emotional well-being.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams of teachers, specialists, and parents to support students’ progress and maintain clear communication regarding development.
  • Monitored student progress, documented observations, and contributed to ongoing evaluations, helping adjust strategies for more effective support.

Freelance Invoice, Estimate, and Communications Specialist

Independent Painting Contractors
06.2018 - Current
  • Create 5-8 weekly detailed and accurate project estimates and invoices tailored to client needs, including labor, materials, and timelines.
  • Prepare and issue invoices for completed projects, ensuring accurate billing and timely payment.
  • Communicate with 35+ clients via email and SMS, providing updates, appointment confirmations, and payment reminders.

Teaching Assistant

Soaring Eagle Academy
07.2023 - 07.2024
  • Provided individualized support to 10 students, ranging from elementary age to young adults, with special needs in developing effective communication skills and fostering a sense of independence in the classroom.
  • Promoted a respectful classroom culture by modeling appropriate behavior and reinforcing positive interactions among peers.
  • Enhanced classroom efficiency through organizing instructional materials, managing daily schedules, and preparing resources for lessons as needed.
  • Engaged with students during extracurricular activities, supporting their interests beyond the classroom.
  • Participated in professional development workshops, continuously improving teaching skills.
  • Assisted in creating visual schedules and other environmental supports that facilitated client independence and self-regulation.

Assistant Teacher

Kiddie Academy of Darien
12.2022 - 07.2023
  • Supported lead teachers in a classroom of 15–20 students, ages 3 months to 5 years.
  • Assisted with lessons, routines, and activity stations (art, sensory, gross motor, reading, and play).
  • Helped manage transitions and supervision across the classroom, hallways, bathrooms, and playground.
  • Maintained communication with parents regarding behavior, development, and progress.

Counseling Mentor

The Cities Project
01.2023 - 06.2023
  • Supported 8 junior high school students in Chicago Public Schools from low-income neighborhoods, focusing on their emotional and educational development.
  • Assisted lead counseling supervisor in facilitating and conducting engaging activities during group therapy sessions, addressing stress, trauma, and coping strategies.
  • Provided one-on-one support to students outside of sessions, discussing school progress, behavior development, and personal growth.
  • Guided mentees in overcoming challenges by sharing personal experiences and offering practical advice.
  • Promoted positive relationships between mentees and other peers and adults to encourage social resilience and connection.
  • Collaborated with teachers, counselors and administrators to foster access to resources and support.

Paraprofessional Aide

LADSE Summer Early Education Program
06.2022 - 08.2022
  • Supported two teachers and 7 students (ages 4–6) with emotional, developmental, and non-verbal disabilities.
  • Assisted with classroom routines, lessons, and transitions in various settings, including the gym, playground, and bathrooms.
  • Led students at activity stations (sensory, art, reading, play), and helped maintain an organized classroom.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

DePaul University
Chicago, IL
06.2023

Skills

  • Effective written communication
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Advanced Microsoft Office skills
  • Behavior management
  • Helping students with special needs

Languages

Spanish
Native or Bilingual

Timeline

Paraprofessional

Amergis Healthcare
07.2024 - Current

Teaching Assistant

Soaring Eagle Academy
07.2023 - 07.2024

Counseling Mentor

The Cities Project
01.2023 - 06.2023

Assistant Teacher

Kiddie Academy of Darien
12.2022 - 07.2023

Paraprofessional Aide

LADSE Summer Early Education Program
06.2022 - 08.2022

Freelance Invoice, Estimate, and Communications Specialist

Independent Painting Contractors
06.2018 - Current

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

DePaul University

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Anna Cruz