Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Additional Information
Timeline
Generic

Susan Bulicek

Hinsdale,IL

Summary

Dedicated Educator with expertise in early childhood education. Highly organized and expert in educational and behavioral developmental. Passionate about providing quality care and instruction for children. Organized and dependable and successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. Hardworking, passionate detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.

Overview

41
41
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Instructional Assistant

Community Consolidated School District 181
08.2023 - Current
  • Monitored student progress to identify areas requiring extra support and implement action plans to meet needs.
  • Supervised students during non-instructional times such as lunch breaks or recess periods, maintaining safety standards at all times.
  • Provided support during classes, group lessons, and classroom activities.
  • Provided one-on-one support to students with special needs, enabling them to achieve academic success.
  • Supported student learning objectives through personalized and small group assistance.
  • Monitored student progress through ongoing assessments, adjusting instruction as needed for optimal growth.
  • Provided support to help students with special needs learn and grow.
  • Prepared instructional materials such as worksheets, visuals aids, or manipulatives according to teacher directives for effective lesson execution.
  • Facilitated small group instruction sessions based on specific skill sets or subject matter, boosting overall student achievement levels.
  • Implemented behavior management techniques to maintain a positive and focused learning environment.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and instructional support.
  • Maintained safety and security by overseeing students in recess environments.
  • Contributed to a positive and collaborative school culture by actively participating in staff meetings, committees, and professional learning communities.
  • Applied specialized teaching techniques to reinforce social and communication skills.
  • Assisted teachers in developing differentiated instructional strategies, resulting in improved student outcomes.
  • Assisted with classroom technology to prepare students with skills needed to succeed in technology-rich world.
  • Delivered curriculum in both one-on-one lessons and group learning environments.
  • Promoted a culture of respect and inclusion within the classroom, fostering positive relationships among students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing multimedia resources and interactive activities in lesson plans.
  • Collaborated with other instructional assistants and teachers to provide comprehensive support to students and deliver instruction aligned with curriculum standards.
  • Assisted in collecting and analyzing data from various assessments to identify trends that informed future instruction planning.
  • Collaborated with classroom teachers to design engaging lessons that aligned with state standards and curriculum objectives.
  • Provided feedback on student work samples allowing teachers to better understand strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Provided performance feedback to help students understand strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Coordinated with other instructional assistants to ensure consistent implementation of classroom procedures and expectations across all subjects.
  • Assisted educators in planning and executing field trips that reinforced curriculum content while providing hands-on learning experiences for students.
  • Managed classroom materials inventory, ensuring necessary supplies were available for daily lessons and activities.
  • Provided one-on-one assistance in academic subjects such as reading, writing, math, and social studies to help students achieve their full potential.
  • Participated actively in professional development opportunities focused on best practices in special education instruction and support services.
  • Improved student engagement by incorporating interactive activities and multimedia resources in lessons.
  • Enhanced student progress by implementing individualized education plans and adapting instructional strategies to meet diverse needs.
  • Monitored student performance through ongoing assessment and data collection, adjusting instruction as needed for optimal growth.
  • Assessed student assignments to check quality and completeness before submission for grading.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly using formative and summative assessments, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to ensure continuous improvement.
  • Supported students with behavioral challenges through consistent reinforcement of classroom expectations and positive feedback.
  • Assisted special education teachers in developing and executing comprehensive lesson plans tailored to students'' unique learning styles and abilities.
  • Cultivated a safe and inclusive learning environment that promoted respect, empathy, and understanding among all students.
  • Contributed to the creation of sensory-rich environments designed to reduce overstimulation while promoting self-regulation skills among students with sensory processing challenges.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies consistently across various settings to promote positive outcomes both in the classroom and beyond.
  • Maintained thorough documentation of daily observations, progress updates, incident reports, and communication with parents or guardians as necessary.
  • Implemented a variety of accommodations, including visual schedules and modified materials, to support students'' diverse learning needs effectively.
  • Promoted self-advocacy among students by teaching them how to effectively communicate their needs within the context of school and wider community settings.
  • Created lesson materials, visuals, and digital presentations to supplement lesson plans.
  • Encouraged peer collaboration through structured group activities while maintaining differentiated instruction based on individual student needs.
  • Supported student participation in extracurricular activities by providing appropriate accommodations and fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.
  • Assisted and mentored students in groups by reviewing lesson teachings and answering questions.
  • Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
  • Handed out classroom materials, like pencils, paper, and crayons.
  • Developed strong relationships with families through open communication channels regarding student progress toward goals established in their individualized education plans.
  • Kept classrooms clean, neat, and properly sanitized for student health and classroom efficiency.
  • Collated classroom materials to help teachers prepare for daily instruction and activities.
  • Oversaw groups of students at school and off-site locations, maintaining optimal safety, and security.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and school psychologists, to ensure holistic support for each student.
  • Collaborated with teacher to create customized classroom environment integral to students' needs.
  • Offered student support through special accommodations, extra assistance, and assessments.
  • Interacted physically and verbally with students throughout each day.
  • Supported teacher in development of individual learning strategies.
  • Oversaw class of students in absence of instructor.
  • Monitored student classroom and outdoors activities to promote student safety.
  • Alerted instructor to student behavior or issues requiring intervention.
  • Established professional relationships with parents and other teachers to increase rapport and support.
  • Documented student behaviors, interventions, and outcomes to enable lead teacher to address pertinent issues.
  • Collaborated with teachers and specialists to assess student progress.
  • Provided individualized reading, writing and math instruction to support student development.
  • Communicated with teachers and other district personnel to assist in evaluating progress and implementing IEP objectives.
  • Delivered efficient instruction by assisting with lesson planning and materials preparation.
  • Observed individuals or groups of students in variety of settings to maintain safe and positive learning environment.
  • Understood and acclimated to teacher's routine to provide classroom coverage.
  • Supported faculty in implementing behavioral intervention plans to address challenging student behaviors.
  • Observed students' performance and recorded relevant data to assess progress.
  • Instructed student activities to implement goals for remediation of deficiencies and drive student success.
  • Assisted with communication methods to keep parents informed about child's development and behavioral issues.
  • Facilitated administration and scoring of standardized tests and assessments to draw meaningful data regarding learning and growth.
  • Kept open and frequent communication with families to provide regular updates on child's academic progress and individualized needs.
  • Worked with students to promote learning and pro-social development.
  • Promoted good study habits and student independence to improve quality of student outcomes.
  • Maintained classroom equipment and work area to promote safe learning environment and meet mandated requirements.
  • Created positive and inclusive classroom environment by helping students develop social skills and relationships.
  • Liaised one-on-one with learners to provide additional support tailored to specific learning needs.

Substitute Teacher, K-5

Community Consolidated School District 181
03.2023 - 06.2023
  • Managed daily classroom routines efficiently, promoting a structured environment conducive to learning.
  • Established clear expectations for behavior and consistently enforced consequences in order to maintain an orderly classroom conducive to learning.
  • Enhanced classroom management skills by implementing clear expectations and consistent consequences for behavior.
  • Developed strong relationships with students, fostering a positive learning environment that promoted academic growth.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in education and improve teaching techniques.
  • Implemented creative teaching methods that engaged students in the learning process while still adhering to curriculum requirements and state educational standards.
  • Provided individualized support to students struggling academically, tailoring instruction to meet their unique needs.
  • Consistently received positive feedback from parents, students, and administrators for dedication to student success and creating a supportive learning environment.
  • Addressed individual student challenges through tailored interventions and one-on-one support during class time or after-school tutoring sessions.
  • Fostered a sense of community within the classroom by cultivating respect amongst peers and facilitating team-building activities that encouraged collaboration among students.
  • Implemented differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate the various learning styles of students within the classroom setting.
  • Maintained accurate records of student attendance, grades, and overall progress throughout the school year.
  • Evaluated student progress using formative and summative assessments, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to maximize learning outcomes.
  • Adapted lesson plans for diverse learners, ensuring all students had access to grade-level content and could participate fully in classroom activities.
  • Utilized technology effectively to enhance lessons, engage students, and streamline administrative tasks such as grading assignments or communicating with parents/guardians about their child''s performance.
  • Assisted administration in organizing school-wide events such as field trips, assemblies, and parent-teacher conferences.
  • Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lessons that connected subject areas and reinforced key concepts.
  • Served as a mentor for new substitute teachers, sharing valuable insights and resources for effective classroom management and instruction.
  • Increased parent involvement through effective communication and regular progress updates on their child''s academic performance.
  • Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
  • Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
  • Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
  • Provided instruction for students in core subject areas.
  • Organized and cleaned teaching areas after daily use to maintain high standards for returning teachers or other substitutes.
  • Supervised lunchroom and recess activities.
  • Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Assigned, explained and graded homework.
  • Monitored student progress and provided feedback to students, parents and school administrators.
  • Adapted lesson plans and student activities to meet needs of students with special learning needs.
  • Kept accurate and current attendance records and assignment sheets to maintain file compliance.
  • Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to accommodate varied student learning styles.
  • Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop innovative approaches to teaching.
  • Incorporated technology into learning to enhance student engagement and learning.
  • Followed lesson plans designed by absent teachers.
  • Enforced school and class rules to maintain order in classroom.
  • Implemented classroom management techniques to maintain positive learning environment.
  • Monitored student behavior and administered discipline as needed.
  • Monitored student performance and provided feedback to inform instruction.
  • Developed creative instructional strategies to keep students engaged and motivated.
  • Conferred with parents or guardians, other teachers, counselors and administrators to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems.
  • Collaborated with other educators to plan and review instruction.
  • Developed lesson plans to align with grade-level standards and objectives.
  • Utilized variety of instructional strategies to meet individual student needs.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans for students with challenging behavior.
  • Researched and selected age-appropriate materials and resources for classroom instruction.
  • Documented student progress and provided regular updates to parents.
  • Assisted students in mastering subject material and preparing for tests.
  • Prepared objectives and outlines for courses of study by following curriculum guidelines or requirements of states and schools.

Long Term Substitute Teacher

Santa Fe Christian Schools
10.2015 - 03.2020
  • Took over class for regular classroom teacher, managing assignments, student needs, and recordkeeping.
  • Maintained day-to-day classroom management and discipline to promote learning initiatives.
  • Utilized differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning needs within the classroom effectively.
  • Organized lesson plans using teaching software for long-term interim assignments.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, promoting a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
  • Developed students'' critical thinking skills by incorporating problem-solving exercises into lessons.
  • Promoted a growth mindset among students, encouraging perseverance in the face of challenging tasks or setbacks.
  • Maintained open communication with parents and guardians, discussing students'' progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
  • Mentored struggling students one-on-one, resulting in significant improvements in their academic performance.
  • Adjusted instructional strategies based on ongoing assessments of student needs and abilities, ensuring optimal learning outcomes for all learners.
  • Assessed student progress regularly, providing individualized feedback and support for continuous improvement.
  • Enhanced classroom management, implementing positive reinforcement techniques to foster a supportive learning environment.
  • Incorporated real-life examples into lessons to make complex concepts more relatable and engaging for students.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Increased class participation through interactive activities and group projects.
  • Communicated with parents regarding lesson plans and upcoming activities and provided feedback on student performance.
  • Served as a positive role model for students by exhibiting strong work ethic, integrity, and professionalism at all times.
  • Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
  • Improved student comprehension by utilizing various teaching methods and learning styles.
  • Contributed to school-wide initiatives aimed at enhancing overall educational quality and fostering a sense of community among staff members.
  • Taught diverse subjects for grades K-8, successfully delivering seamless teaching in absence of regular teacher.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
  • Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
  • Assigned, explained and graded homework.
  • Monitored student progress and provided feedback to students, parents and school administrators.
  • Provided instruction for students in core subject areas.
  • Kept students on-task with proactive behavior modification and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Kept accurate and current attendance records and assignment sheets to maintain file compliance.
  • Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
  • Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to accommodate varied student learning styles.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop innovative approaches to teaching.
  • Adapted lesson plans and student activities to meet needs of students with special learning needs.
  • Incorporated technology into learning to enhance student engagement and learning.
  • Supervised lunchroom and recess activities.
  • Organized and cleaned teaching areas after daily use to maintain high standards for returning teachers or other substitutes.
  • Utilized variety of instructional strategies to meet individual student needs.
  • Developed creative instructional strategies to keep students engaged and motivated.
  • Collaborated with other educators to plan and review instruction.
  • Enforced school and class rules to maintain order in classroom.
  • Conferred with parents or guardians, other teachers, counselors and administrators to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems.
  • Monitored student performance and provided feedback to inform instruction.
  • Assisted students in mastering subject material and preparing for tests.
  • Developed lesson plans to align with grade-level standards and objectives.
  • Followed lesson plans designed by absent teachers.
  • Monitored student behavior and administered discipline as needed.
  • Prepared objectives and outlines for courses of study by following curriculum guidelines or requirements of states and schools.
  • Documented student progress and provided regular updates to parents.
  • Implemented classroom management techniques to maintain positive learning environment.
  • Attended professional meetings, educational conferences or teacher training workshops to improve professional competence.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans for students with challenging behavior.
  • Researched and selected age-appropriate materials and resources for classroom instruction.

Second Grade Teacher

Ethical Culture School
08.1986 - 06.1988
  • Created a welcoming classroom atmosphere by establishing clear expectations and routines, promoting a sense of belonging among students.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop cross-curricular projects, fostering critical thinking skills and interdisciplinary learning.
  • Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process.
  • Differentiated instruction to meet the unique learning needs of each student, ensuring all students were able to access the curriculum successfully.
  • Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Assessed student learning progress and comprehension with routine tests and standardized examinations.
  • Implemented classroom management improvements to enhance class morale and engagement.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing diverse teaching methods and incorporating real-world examples.
  • Incorporated hands-on activities and interactive games into lessons, stimulating student interest and engagement in course materials.
  • Managed classroom effectively using positive discipline techniques and behavior management plans tailored to individual student needs.
  • Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas of growth for students, implementing targeted interventions to close achievement gaps.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Assessed student progress regularly through formative assessments, providing timely feedback for improved academic performance.
  • Developed strong relationships with parents through consistent communication, leading to increased parental involvement in their child''s education.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Assessed student progress by administering tests and evaluating results.
  • Taught students subject-specific material, learning strategies, and social skills.
  • Organized classroom supplies and decorated walls to create fun, nurturing settings, and meet learning needs.
  • Collaborated with administrators on classroom policies, management strategies, and discipline.
  • Implemented a positive reward system to motivate students and reinforce good behavior, resulting in a more productive classroom environment.
  • Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
  • Sourced supplies to fill gaps in student activities.
  • Established and enforced rules of behavior to drive social development and maintain positive interactions.
  • Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
  • Promoted exploration of building blocks of learning by leading diverse, hands-on activities.
  • Chaperoned field trips to maintain safety and encourage learning.
  • Kept classroom clean, organized, and safe for students and visitors.
  • Organized various extracurricular activities such as clubs or field trips, extending learning opportunities beyond the standard curriculum.
  • Provided after-school tutoring sessions for struggling learners, increasing their confidence and abilities in core subject areas.
  • Stayed abreast of new trends in education by attending professional development courses and in-service trainings.
  • Drove student learning by establishing clear classroom plans and group objectives, as well as actionable strategies to achieve each goal.
  • Planned lessons according to district standards to cover requirements and prepare for standardized tests.
  • Boosted individual perseverance and resilience by setting challenging goals and providing realistic support.
  • Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
  • Created lesson plans to correlate with state curriculum standards and devised educational programs to meet educational objectives.
  • Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
  • Created and presented clever lessons to engage students and focus on core subjects necessary for personal and academic growth.
  • Designed and presented lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using variety of teaching techniques to appeal to various learning styles within assigned grade level.
  • Maintained knowledge of school curricula, standards and policies to correctly prepare students for higher grade levels.
  • Administered various reading tests and determined student reading levels based on assessment findings.
  • Reinforced positive behavior by encouraging efforts through affirmation statements and praising accomplishments.
  • Directed class discussions to spark conversation about key concepts, complex problems and overarching themes.
  • Maintained student portfolios to monitor learning progress and completion of work required for promotion to next grade level.
  • Taught core subjects of math, science, technology, and history.
  • Pursued professional development during summer months to maintain certification and extend skills.
  • Prepared and administered grade-specific tests and examinations regulated by school district to monitor students' growth and to report progress to parents.
  • Developed problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by presenting challenges to boost self-esteem and performance.
  • Coached, mentored and evaluated student teachers for progress against program objectives.
  • Coached students on physical and emotional safety as part of health curriculum.
  • Fostered student curiosity and interest in learning through hands-on activities and field trips.
  • Adapted lessons to differentiate instruction and meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
  • Retained student interest and maximized receptive learning.
  • Integrated technology and multimedia tools into lessons to enhance student learning.
  • Created supportive and inclusive learning environments, fostering positive classroom atmospheres supporting student growth and learning.
  • Attended students' concerts, sporting events and performances to offer support and encourage extracurricular activities.
  • Provided regular feedback to students on progress and assigned grades based on performance.
  • Taught lessons encompassing skill-building activities in speaking, writing, reading and listening.

Special Education Paraprofessional

Berwyn School District
12.1985 - 06.1986
  • Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
  • Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
  • Assisted in the implementation of effective behavior management techniques, resulting in a more focused and positive classroom environment.
  • Collaborated with teacher to create customized classroom environment integral to students' needs.
  • Monitored student classroom and outdoors activities to promote student safety.
  • Maintained positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.
  • Interacted physically and verbally with students throughout each day.
  • Offered student support through special accommodations, extra assistance, and assessments.
  • Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in special education instruction and support services.
  • Supported students with various disabilities through one-on-one tutoring sessions, improving their understanding of course materials and concepts.
  • Oversaw class of students in absence of instructor.
  • Supported teacher in development of individual learning strategies.
  • Documented student behaviors, interventions, and outcomes to enable lead teacher to address pertinent issues.
  • Enhanced students'' learning experiences by implementing individualized educational plans and adapting teaching methods for special needs students.
  • Partnered with speech therapists, occupational therapists, and other related service providers to ensure comprehensive support for each individual student''s growth and progress.
  • Assisted teachers with classroom management and document coordination to maintain positive learning environment.
  • Set up visual aids, equipment, and classroom displays to support teacher's lesson delivery.
  • Responded proactively to emerging challenges by adapting instructional strategies as needed, ensuring continuous progress toward established goals for each student''s academic success and personal growth.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive support strategies for each student, contributing to improved academic performance.
  • Facilitated social skills development through targeted group activities, promoting positive peer relationships and increased self-confidence among special education students.
  • Encouraged students to participate in school activities and programs to promote well-roundedness and increase confidence.
  • Implemented evidence-based instructional strategies tailored to each student''s unique learning style, promoting greater comprehension across subject areas.
  • Established professional relationships with parents and other teachers to increase rapport and support.
  • Provided necessary accommodations for testing situations, ensuring fair opportunities for all students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
  • Alerted instructor to student behavior or issues requiring intervention.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress, enabling timely communication with parents and other stakeholders regarding individual achievements and areas needing improvement.
  • Promoted a culture of inclusion within the school community by modeling respectful interactions and encouraging open communication among all stakeholders involved in the education of special needs students.
  • Created positive and inclusive classroom environment by helping students develop social skills and relationships.
  • Observed students' performance and recorded relevant data to assess progress.
  • Understood and acclimated to teacher's routine to provide classroom coverage.
  • Supported faculty in implementing behavioral intervention plans to address challenging student behaviors.
  • Liaised one-on-one with learners to provide additional support tailored to specific learning needs.
  • Provided individualized reading, writing and math instruction to support student development.
  • Responded to emergency situations to resolve immediate safety concerns or direct appropriate personnel for resolution.
  • Collaborated with teachers and specialists to assess student progress.
  • Helped feeding and daily living skills to support physical and emotional well-being.
  • Maintained classroom equipment and work area to promote safe learning environment and meet mandated requirements.
  • Worked with students to promote learning and pro-social development.
  • Observed individuals or groups of students in variety of settings to maintain safe and positive learning environment.
  • Promoted good study habits and student independence to improve quality of student outcomes.
  • Instructed student activities to implement goals for remediation of deficiencies and drive student success.

First Grade Teacher

TASIS England
08.1983 - 05.1985
  • Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring all students made progress towards academic goals.
  • Utilized data-driven instruction to identify areas of need for individual students and adjust teaching methods accordingly.
  • Assessed student progress regularly using formative assessments and modified instruction accordingly for optimal growth.
  • Established strong relationships with parents through effective communication about their child''s academic progress and social-emotional development.
  • Built positive relationships with parents to involve families in educational process.
  • Improved student reading comprehension by incorporating engaging phonics activities and guided reading sessions.
  • Planned lessons according to district standards to cover requirements and prepare for standardized tests.
  • Implemented classroom management improvements to enhance class morale and engagement.
  • Taught students subject-specific material, learning strategies, and social skills.
  • Drove student learning by establishing clear classroom plans and group objectives, as well as actionable strategies to achieve each goal.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Increased parent involvement in their child''s education by conducting regular parent-teacher conferences and providing resources for at-home learning support.
  • Promoted exploration of building blocks of learning by leading diverse, hands-on activities.
  • Established and enforced rules of behavior to drive social development and maintain positive interactions.
  • Developed students'' critical thinking skills through inquiry-based learning activities and group projects.
  • Implemented positive behavior support strategies, promoting a respectful and inclusive classroom culture.
  • Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
  • Enhanced classroom management techniques, resulting in a more focused and productive learning environment.
  • Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
  • Stayed abreast of changes to school and district policies as well as new trends in education by attending professional development courses and in-service trainings.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
  • Stayed abreast of new trends in education by attending professional development courses and in-service trainings.
  • Assessed student learning progress and comprehension with routine tests and standardized examinations.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary lessons that connected subjects such as math, science, and social studies.
  • Collaborated with administrators on classroom policies, management strategies, and discipline.
  • Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.
  • Assessed student progress by administering tests and evaluating results.
  • Served as a mentor for new teachers, offering guidance on lesson planning, instructional strategies, and classroom management techniques.
  • Contributed to the development of the school improvement plan by analyzing data trends, setting goals, and implementing targeted interventions.
  • Chaperoned field trips to maintain safety and encourage learning.
  • Boosted individual perseverance and resilience by setting challenging goals and providing realistic support.
  • Sourced supplies to fill gaps in student activities.
  • Organized classroom supplies and decorated walls to create fun, nurturing settings, and meet learning needs.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
  • Designed and presented lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using variety of teaching techniques to appeal to various learning styles within assigned grade level.
  • Created lesson plans to correlate with state curriculum standards and devised educational programs to meet educational objectives.
  • Reinforced positive behavior by encouraging efforts through affirmation statements and praising accomplishments.
  • Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
  • Maintained knowledge of school curricula, standards and policies to correctly prepare students for higher grade levels.
  • Maintained student portfolios to monitor learning progress and completion of work required for promotion to next grade level.
  • Developed problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by presenting challenges to boost self-esteem and performance.
  • Pursued professional development during summer months to maintain certification and extend skills.
  • Taught core subjects of math, science, technology, and history.
  • Prepared and administered grade-specific tests and examinations regulated by school district to monitor students' growth and to report progress to parents.
  • Fostered student curiosity and interest in learning through hands-on activities and field trips.
  • Created and presented clever lessons to engage students and focus on core subjects necessary for personal and academic growth.
  • Administered various reading tests and determined student reading levels based on assessment findings.
  • Directed class discussions to spark conversation about key concepts, complex problems and overarching themes.
  • Coached students on physical and emotional safety as part of health curriculum.
  • Adapted lessons to differentiate instruction and meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
  • Created supportive and inclusive learning environments, fostering positive classroom atmospheres supporting student growth and learning.
  • Taught lessons encompassing skill-building activities in speaking, writing, reading and listening.
  • Kept classroom clean, organized, and safe for students and visitors.
  • Provided regular feedback to students on progress and assigned grades based on performance.
  • Retained student interest and maximized receptive learning.
  • Attended students' concerts, sporting events and performances to offer support and encourage extracurricular activities.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Wheaton College
Wheaton, IL
05.1982

Skills

  • Emotional Regulation
  • Literacy Intervention
  • Adaptive Curriculum
  • Social Skills Training
  • Sensory Integration
  • Progress Reporting
  • Life Skills Development
  • Student Supervision
  • IEP compliance
  • Behavioral plan management
  • Special needs
  • Teaching and instruction
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Classroom Organization
  • Autism and spectrum disorders
  • Reading instruction
  • Teacher Assistance
  • Lesson Plan Implementation
  • Skills strategies
  • Social and group settings
  • Parental interaction
  • Progress Monitoring
  • Instructional support
  • Activity management
  • Autism understanding
  • Differentiated Instruction
  • Social Skills Development
  • Student Engagement
  • Special education curriculum
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Behavior management techniques
  • Applied Behavior Analysis
  • Cultural Sensitivity
  • Student Advocacy
  • Speech and Language Evaluation
  • Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI)

Additional Information

As a teacher and a mother of four grown children, I am very well organized and know how to multi task! I know that it's important to finish projects professionally, responsibly and on time. I am a teacher by trade and I have taught and tutored students in London, Chicago, New York and San Diego and now back again in my hometown of Chicago! I have organized and have run galas, silent auctions, and school, church and community events.

Some of my strengths include writing, communication, listening, organization and hospitality.



Timeline

Special Education Instructional Assistant

Community Consolidated School District 181
08.2023 - Current

Substitute Teacher, K-5

Community Consolidated School District 181
03.2023 - 06.2023

Long Term Substitute Teacher

Santa Fe Christian Schools
10.2015 - 03.2020

Second Grade Teacher

Ethical Culture School
08.1986 - 06.1988

Special Education Paraprofessional

Berwyn School District
12.1985 - 06.1986

First Grade Teacher

TASIS England
08.1983 - 05.1985

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Wheaton College

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