LAURA BIRD
Oak Park
Summary
Dedicated elementary educator and ESL specialist with 19 years of experience in early childhood and primary education. Equipped with advanced training in linguistics, language teaching methodology, and cultural responsiveness. Passionate about leading an elementary classroom where all students feel seen, supported, and challenged. Brings a strong foundation in curriculum design, assessment, and differentiated instruction—resulting in meaningful academic growth and a lifelong love of learning. Committed to continuous professional growth and implementing inclusive, research-based practices that elevate student success.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Kindergarten/1st Grade Teacher
ACERO Charter Schools
09.2011 - Current
- Passionately foster open communication with students, families, and colleagues to create a supportive learning community focused on improving reading and math outcomes.
- Co-taught and collaborated with colleagues to deliver effective instruction and support diverse learners.
- Implemented a bilingual approach to learning, adapting curricula to meet the specific needs of English Language Learners and support language development alongside academic growth.
- Maintained a strong commitment to meeting instructional goals through detailed planning and ongoing reflection on student progress.
- Consistently met instructional objectives through well-defined planning and achievement of performance targets.
- Took an active role in organizing and leading teachers to establish the school’s inaugural union charter, demonstrating dedication to supporting colleagues while prioritizing classroom excellence.
2nd Grade Teacher
Santa Cruz Cooperative School
08.2009 - 06.2011
- Researched and recommended appropriate classroom materials and resources to meet student needs.
- Integrated diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives into curriculum and instruction.
3rd Grade Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
08.2006 - 06.2009
- Enhanced student development by emphasizing active learning strategies and a problem-based approach.
- Developed and refined standards-based curriculum maps, lessons, and units of study.
Education
Masters of Arts - Teaching English to Students of Other Languages
North Eastern University
05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of Dayton
05.2006
Skills
- Curriculum Development
- Technology Integration
- Instructional Design
- Mentorship
- Team Collaboration/Co-Teaching
- Differentiated Instruction
- Multilingual Learner Support
Certification
- English as a Second Language
- Learning Behavior Specialist
Timeline
Kindergarten/1st Grade Teacher
ACERO Charter Schools
09.2011 - Current
2nd Grade Teacher
Santa Cruz Cooperative School
08.2009 - 06.2011
3rd Grade Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
08.2006 - 06.2009
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education
University of Dayton
Masters of Arts - Teaching English to Students of Other Languages
North Eastern University
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