Leonard (Lenny) Miller
Plainfield
Summary
Dedicated and adaptable educator with four years of experience as a substitute and student teacher in grades K through 8, supported by a recently completed Master of Arts degree in Teaching. Brings a strong foundation in classroom management, instructional planning, and student engagement, built on 21 years of leadership and team development as a U.S. Army Non-Commissioned Officer. Skilled in building positive relationships, maintaining high expectations, and fostering inclusive, student-centered learning environments. Proven ability to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and lead with integrity and professionalism.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher, K-Eighth Grade
Plainfield School District 202
01.2021 - Current
- Maintain continuity of instruction by implementing teacher-provided lesson plans and managing classroom routines across a variety of subjects and grade levels.
- Demonstrate adaptability and professionalism while serving in daily and short-term roles across multiple elementary and middle schools.
- Foster positive classroom environments by building quick rapport with students and supporting school-wide expectations for behavior and engagement.
- Collaborate with grade-level teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff to ensure consistent student support and learning outcomes.
- Integrate interactive strategies such as games, read-alouds, and multimedia tools to increase student participation and maintain momentum in instruction.
- Recognized for reliability, strong communication, and ability to step into unfamiliar classrooms with confidence and care.
Long-Term Substitute Teacher/Student Teacher
Lincoln Elementary School
02.2024 - 04.2025
- Assumed full classroom responsibilities in long-term roles, including lesson planning, grading, parent communication, and daily instruction for grades 3, 4 and 5.
- Delivered engaging, standards-aligned lessons across subjects using District 202 and Illinois State curriculum frameworks, gaining in-depth familiarity with content and pacing for grades 3 through 6.
- Tutored a homebound student one-on-one, tailoring instruction to individual needs and maintaining academic continuity in alignment with district standards.
- Differentiated instruction through small groups, scaffolding, and formative assessments to meet a wide range of student abilities.
- Maintained consistent classroom management practices to promote a safe, respectful, and focused learning environment.
- Collaborated with mentor teachers, grade-level teams, and specialists to support student growth, including IEP and 504 accommodations when applicable.
U.S. Army Senior Recruiter
Illinois Army National Guard
09.2004 - 05.2018
- Recruited, screened, and enrolled qualified applicants into the Armed Forces, consistently exceeding monthly and annual goals.
- Hired, trained, and supervised teams of up to 10 full-time recruiters, leading with accountability, coaching, and data-driven strategy.
- Developed and facilitated large-scale community outreach events in partnership with schools, local governments, and civic organizations.
- Created and implemented a regional social media marketing plan, resulting in increased visibility and applicant engagement.
- Produced award-winning training and recruitment videos used across the Midwest recruiting battalion.
- Built and maintained long-term relationships with educators, school administrators, and community business leaders to promote opportunities and educational outreach.
- Collaborated with unit commanders to develop strategic plans for meeting enlistment and retention goals.
Education
Master of Arts - Elementary School Teaching
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS05-2025
Marketing Concentration
Post University
Waterbury, CT05.2016
Film, Radio and Television Broadcasting
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL05.2004
Skills
- Classroom Management & Student Engagement
- Curriculum Alignment & Standards-Based Instruction
- Differentiated Instruction & Academic Support
- Team Collaboration & Cross-Functional Communication
- Parent & Family Engagement
- Time Management & Task Prioritization
- Instructional Technology Integration
- Leadership, Mentorship & Coaching Experience
Hobbies and Interests
Enjoy playing guitar and piano as creative outlets, and writing original children’s stories inspired by child-raising experiences. Passionate about history, especially biographies of U.S. leaders. Actively involved in youth sports as a volunteer coach for local softball and baseball teams, fostering teamwork and mentorship.
Training
Professional Training & Certifications
- Trauma-Informed Practices & Student Wellness
Trauma-Informed Classroom Strategies
Conflict Resolution & De-escalation
Domestic Violence Awareness
Sexual Harassment & Title IX Training
Seizure Response & Allergy Protocols
Concussion Protocols & Bloodborne Pathogens
Via Global Compliance Network (District 202) - Health & Safety Certifications
First Aid, CPR, and AED Certified
Stop the Bleed Training - Military Instruction & Public Relations
Military Public Affairs Training
Prevention Loss Leader Course (Army Substance Abuse Program)
Details
- 24704 Kingston St.
- Plainfield, IL
- 815-922-1930
- Lenny.miller@gmail.com
Timeline
Long-Term Substitute Teacher/Student Teacher
Lincoln Elementary School
02.2024 - 04.2025
Substitute Teacher, K-Eighth Grade
Plainfield School District 202
01.2021 - Current
U.S. Army Senior Recruiter
Illinois Army National Guard
09.2004 - 05.2018
Marketing Concentration
Post University
Film, Radio and Television Broadcasting
Southern Illinois University
Master of Arts - Elementary School Teaching
Kansas State University
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