Cyndel McKiness
Mt.Vernon
Summary
Education is not the filling of a pot but the lighting of a fire.’ – W.B. Yeats. Seeing the fire light in a child's eye when I helped tutor a student encouraged me to return to school and pursue a career in education. Educational roles and experiences include Teaching Junior High ELA/Encore, Substitute teaching K-7 grades and Special Education, paraprofessional, RTI specialist, and coaching. In each role, I am passionate and ambitious with the natural ability to connect and inspire children. I am a reliable team member who possesses a positive and effective teaching style, emphasizing and encouraging within the learning environment. My experience has made me insightful with the ability to implement technology and creativity in the classroom and prepare lesson plans according to state core standards.
Experienced with implementing comprehensive ELA curriculums tailored to middle school students. Utilizes innovative teaching techniques to foster critical thinking and literacy skills. Strong understanding of classroom management and student engagement strategies.
Professional educator with strong background in English Language Arts instruction, known for creating dynamic and inclusive learning environments. Expertise in developing comprehensive lesson plans that cater to diverse student needs and abilities. Valued team player focused on collaborative teaching strategies and achieving measurable academic improvements.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Middle School ELA Teacher
Kell Grade School CCS#2
08.2022 - Current
- Led after-school tutoring sessions focused on skill development and test preparation strategies.
- Streamlined grading processes by utilizing technology tools, allowing for more timely feedback on student work.
- Promoted a growth mindset within the classroom, encouraging students to embrace challenges and learn from setbacks.
- Implemented project-based learning experiences to promote critical thinking skills and real-world applications of course content.
- Enhanced reading comprehension by implementing diverse literature selections and engaging activities.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment with clear expectations and consistent routines.
- Utilized data-driven strategies to differentiate instruction for diverse learners, improving overall student achievement.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary units that connected ELA concepts to other subjects.
- Developed strong relationships with parents, maintaining open lines of communication and encouraging involvement in their child''s education.
- Increased writing proficiency through targeted feedback and individualized instruction.
- Prepared students for state assessments by incorporating test-taking strategies into daily lessons, contributing to increased pass rates among the class population.
- Encouraged independent thought, good judgment, and expression of original ideas.
- Taught age-appropriate spelling techniques, grammar rules, and language skills.
Substitute Teacher
Primary Center
01.2021 - 08.2022
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
Paraprofessional/RTI Aide
Grand Prairie Ccs#6
01.2020 - 08.2022
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
- Improved classroom management by assisting teachers with behavioral interventions and monitoring student progress.
- Supervised students during non-instructional periods such as lunch, recess, or field trips, ensuring safety at all times.
- Fostered a positive learning environment by establishing strong rapport with students, parents, and faculty members.
- Enhanced student support by delivering one-on-one and small group assistance in various subjects.
- Supported special education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with diverse learning needs.
- Implemented behavior management techniques effectively to maintain a structured learning environment conducive to student success.
- Assisted classroom teacher in supervising snack time and indoor and outdoor play.
- Facilitated communication between general education and special education staff, promoting effective collaboration on behalf of students'' best interests.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to evaluate student progress and adjust instructional strategies as needed.
- Reported on student progress, behavior, and social skills to parents.
- Monitored students on field trips, handling roll call, and group movement to keep youths safe in public settings.
Substitute Teacher, K-Eighth Grade
Grand Prairie CCS#6
01.2020 - 08.2021
- Assisted permanent teachers in maintaining classroom routines, ensuring a seamless transition during their absence.
- Adapted quickly to various classroom settings and grade levels by demonstrating flexibility, adaptability, and a strong understanding of diverse curricula.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, promoting open communication and collaboration among all stakeholders.
- Contributed to improved school performance by collaborating with fellow teachers on curriculum development and teaching strategies.
- Inspired a love of learning in students by sharing passion for education and fostering curiosity through thought-provoking lessons and activities.
- Increased student engagement through the use of interactive activities, group projects, and multimedia presentations.
- Fostered a positive learning environment by implementing consistent classroom management techniques and clear expectations for behavior.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Centralia Manor/Select Rehabilitation/Enduracare
05.2006 - 01.2020
- Collaborated with supervising Occupational Therapists to evaluate treatment effectiveness, making necessary adjustments for optimal results.
- Adapted treatment approaches according to individual patient preferences, ensuring engagement in the therapeutic process.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing individualized treatment plans and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
- Assisted patients with completing basic daily living activities such as grooming, dressing and self-feeding.
- Implemented evidence-based practices into daily clinical work, staying abreast of current research and trends in the field.
- Managed caseloads effectively while maintaining a focus on quality care delivery for each patient served.
- Helped improve fine motor, visual perception and sensory processing skills.
- Participated in continuous professional development to stay current on best practices and maintain high-quality patient care standards.
- Built rapport with patients and families, fostering trust and open communication for optimal therapy outcomes.
- Maintained accurate records of patient progress, facilitating data-driven decision-making for treatment plan adjustments.
- Contributed to interdisciplinary case conferences, providing valuable input for comprehensive care planning.
- Provided adaptive equipment recommendations based on individual patient needs, enhancing daily living skills.
Education
Bachelor in Arts - Elementary Education
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT01.2023
Elementary Education -
Southern IL University of Carbondale
Carbondale, IL01.2021
Associates in Arts -
Rend Lake College
Ina, IL01.2020
Applied Associates in Science -
Rend Lake College
Ina, IL01.2006
High School Diploma -
Mt.Vernon Township High School
Mt Vernon, IL01.2004
Skills
- I-Ready
- Teachersease
- Classroom Dojo
- Go-Guardian
- Renaissance
- IXL
- Google Classroom
- Patience and empathy
- Helping students with special needs
- Adaptable
- Collaborative learning
- Small group and individual assistance
Accomplishments
- Spearheaded extra-curricular group focused on Speech and Essay contests. 2 years in a row students have won 1st and 2nd place in district and regional Woodsmen contest.
- Planned and oversaw special field trip to [Location].
- SEL liaison for Grand Prairie and Kell Grade School Supervised team members of parents and staff in creating and supporting students in social emotional learning.
- Webmaster and Marquee sign creator Kell Grade School
- Coached Kell Grade School cheerleading team 2 consecutive years building the team from the ground up 2022-current
- Coached Volleyball team at Grand Prairie 2 consecutive years 2020-2022
- Coached boys 12U YMCA baseball team 2021-2022 ,
Certification
- Elementary Education, K-6, 01/23
- ELA endorsement jr. high, 2024
- Certified Substitute Teacher, 01/19
- Paraprofessional Certification
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Other Experiences
- Baseball Coach 10U League, YMCA, Summer 2022
- Occupational Therapy Assistant, Enduracare/Select Rehab/Centralia Manor, 2006-2021, 1910 E. McCord, Centralia, IL, 62801
Strengths And Accomplishments
- SEL District Liaison for District 6, 2020-2021
- SEL District Liaison for District 2, 2023-2024
- Experienced with I-Ready, Teachersease, classroom dojo, IAR, Go Guardian, Renaissance, IXL, Microsoft Word/works, spreadsheet, Google Classroom, Casamba and Optima programs
- Speech facilitator and educator with multiple awards in District and regionals, 2023-2024
- Assisting and teaching students in the Elks Patriotism Essay contest
- Maintaining behavior management and ensuring exceptional parent/student communication
- Ensuring students are engaged in learning through creativity, age appropriateness, and enthusiasm
Timeline
Middle School ELA Teacher
Kell Grade School CCS#2
08.2022 - Current
Substitute Teacher
Primary Center
01.2021 - 08.2022
Paraprofessional/RTI Aide
Grand Prairie Ccs#6
01.2020 - 08.2022
Substitute Teacher, K-Eighth Grade
Grand Prairie CCS#6
01.2020 - 08.2021
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Centralia Manor/Select Rehabilitation/Enduracare
05.2006 - 01.2020
Elementary Education -
Southern IL University of Carbondale
Associates in Arts -
Rend Lake College
Applied Associates in Science -
Rend Lake College
High School Diploma -
Mt.Vernon Township High School
- Elementary Education, K-6, 01/23
- ELA endorsement jr. high, 2024
- Certified Substitute Teacher, 01/19
- Paraprofessional Certification
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Bachelor in Arts - Elementary Education
Western Governors University
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