Brandis Stokes
Richton Park
Summary
Passionate educator skilled in differentiated instruction and behavior management. Extensive experience in fostering collaborative environments and enhancing communication between families and educational teams. Focused on driving meaningful improvements in student learning and engagement.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Chicago Public School District
Chicago, IL
08.2024 - Current
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
Early Childhood Program Director
Ican Dream Center
Tinley Park, IL
06.2022 - 08.2024
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with local and state regulations for early childhood education.
- Collaborated with families to foster strong relationships that support children's development and well-being.
- Trained and mentored staff on best practices in early childhood education, improving teaching strategies.
- Collaborated with teachers and parents to enhance student support strategies and improve educational outcomes.
- Analyzed student data to identify trends and inform program improvements in special education services.
- Facilitated communication between multidisciplinary teams to promote cohesive support for students' educational journeys.
Special Education Teacher
Posen Robbins School District
Posen, IL
08.2017 - 06.2022
- Provided professional development workshops for staff on effective special education practices.
- Advocated for students' rights by ensuring compliance with special education laws and regulations.
- Led initiatives to improve classroom inclusivity and foster a positive learning environment for all students.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Special Education Teacher
Kankakee School District
Kankakee, IL
08.2015 - 06.2017
- Utilized assistive technology tools to facilitate learning and communication for students with disabilities.
- Monitored student progress through assessments, adjusting instructional methods accordingly.
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
- Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
Special Education Teacher
AAA Academy
Blue Island, IL
09.2010 - 03.2015
- Developed and implemented individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to student needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance educational strategies and support services.
- Engaged families in the educational process through regular communication and support resources.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
Education
Master of Science - Director of Special Education
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR12.2022
Master of Arts - Special Education
National Louis University
Chicago, IL06.2014
Master of Arts - Political Studies
University of Illinois At Springfield
Springfield, IL06.2007
Bachelor of Arts - Political Studies
University of Illinois At Springfield
Springfield, IL06.2005
Skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Classroom management
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Multitasking Abilities
- Relationship building
- Small group instruction
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Chicago Public School District
08.2024 - Current
Early Childhood Program Director
Ican Dream Center
06.2022 - 08.2024
Special Education Teacher
Posen Robbins School District
08.2017 - 06.2022
Special Education Teacher
Kankakee School District
08.2015 - 06.2017
Special Education Teacher
AAA Academy
09.2010 - 03.2015
Master of Science - Director of Special Education
Arkansas State University
Master of Arts - Special Education
National Louis University
Master of Arts - Political Studies
University of Illinois At Springfield
Bachelor of Arts - Political Studies
University of Illinois At Springfield