Keelin Polhemus
Minooka
Summary
Experienced with educational support, assisting in development and implementation of classroom activities. Utilizes strong interpersonal skills to foster supportive and engaging learning environment. Knowledge of effective classroom management techniques and instructional support. Motivated and adaptable professional with strong communication skills and a positive, solutions-focused mindset. Known for being reliable, detail-oriented, and collaborative, I bring a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering high-quality work while contributing to a supportive team environment.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Paraprofessional
Grundy County Special Education Cooperative
12.2019 - Current
- Supported students with individualized education plans, fostering academic growth and independence.
- Collaborated with educators to adapt instructional materials for diverse learning needs.
- Assisted in implementing behavior management strategies, promoting positive student interactions.
- Monitored student progress and maintained accurate records of performance and behavior.
- Provided one-on-one and small-group support to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), reinforcing academic lessons and individualized learning goals.
- Supported students in the use of AAC devices, PECS, communication boards, and other communication tools.
- Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
- Enhanced classroom efficiency through organizing instructional materials, managing daily schedules, and preparing resources for lessons as needed.
- Prepared instruction materials, constructed bulletin boards, and set up work areas.
Daycare Assistant
Kidz Korner Daycare
05.2018 - 11.2019
- Assisted in daily care routines, ensuring children's safety and well-being.
- Developed engaging activities to promote cognitive and social development in children.
- Collaborated with parents to address children's needs and progress effectively.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to foster positive interactions among children.
- Assisted in maintaining a safe and healthy environment, ensuring cleanliness and proper supervision of children.
- Provided lunchtime assistance to monitor children, assist with eating and serve food.
- Used patience, skill and various behavior modification techniques to maintain order and safety.
- Observed play activities to identify positive behaviors and areas in need of improvement, implementing behavior redirection where appropriate.
- Monitored daily sign-in/sign-out logs for accurate attendance tracking, helping to maintain a secure and orderly facility.
School Bus Aide
Minooka Transportation
06.2017 - 05.2018
- Assisted students during boarding and disembarking, ensuring safety and proper procedures were followed.
- Monitored student behavior on bus, facilitating a positive and respectful environment.
- Communicated effectively with drivers to coordinate schedules and address any issues promptly.
- Provided support for students with special needs, ensuring compliance with individual requirements and safety protocols.
- Helped students with physical and mental disabilities to board, disembark and ride bus.
- Built and maintained positive relationships with teachers, students and parents.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed and full knowledge of first aid, CPR and bus policies.
Associate
Walmart
08.2016 - 06.2017
- Assisted in inventory management, ensuring stock levels met customer demand consistently.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues efficiently.
- Greeted customers and helped with product questions, selections, and purchases.
- Maintained a clean and organized store environment, enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.
- Assisted in managing inventory levels and restocking merchandise as needed.
Busser
Cookies Restaurant
10.2015 - 08.2016
- Cleaned and set tables efficiently for optimal guest experience.
- Assisted servers with food and beverage delivery during peak hours.
- Maintained cleanliness of dining area to meet health and safety standards.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely dish availability.
- Trained new bussers on restaurant procedures and best practices.
- Reset and cleaned tables quickly to prepare for new customers.
- Collected trash, wiped up spills, and removed trays to maintain fresh and clean customer areas.
- Completed side work duties, ensuring that all necessary supplies were stocked for shift success.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Child Development
Joliet Junior College
Joliet, IL12-2028
High School Diploma -
Minooka Community High School
Minooka, IL05-2017
Skills
- Behavior management
- Effective communication
- Calm and patient demeanor
- Computer skills
- Relationship building
- Team Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Adaptability and Learning Agility
- Time Management
- Creativity & Innovation
- Attention to Detail
Certification
- Licensed Paraprofessional - 2019-current
Timeline
Paraprofessional
Grundy County Special Education Cooperative
12.2019 - Current
Daycare Assistant
Kidz Korner Daycare
05.2018 - 11.2019
School Bus Aide
Minooka Transportation
06.2017 - 05.2018
Associate
Walmart
08.2016 - 06.2017
Busser
Cookies Restaurant
10.2015 - 08.2016
Associate of Applied Science - Child Development
Joliet Junior College
High School Diploma -
Minooka Community High School