EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
My years of experience as both a general and special education teacher at the middle school level have afforded me the opportunity to interact with diverse populations, establish a teaching style that is favorable to all learning styles, and maintain a high standard of pupil behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in my classroom. Additionally, I am able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with teachers, administrators, counselors, and other staff members, as well as parents, students, and other stakeholders.
My experience as a special education teacher and department leader has permitted me to become, not only knowledgeable, but also passionate, about Special Education Law, instruction design, both individual and small group, which parallels the general education curriculum, and appropriate IEP implementation.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
I continually take courses to further my knowledge. I enjoy learning, and I want to be the best teacher I can be. My degrees are as follows: Special Education Generalist Endorsement, University of Nevada, Reno in December, 2010. Before that, I received a M.Ed School Administration, from the University of Nevada, Reno, in May 2006. My first degree was a B.S. in Elementary Education, from the same school in Dec. 1998.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
My education, licensing, and experience include Elementary Education, Special Education, Middle School Math, Science and ELA, as well as School Administration. I have taught at the middle school level for 14 years, five of which were in the special education setting.
I have taught elementary school over the summer months, and have spent a substantial amount of time in classrooms of all levels as a special education department leader, grant supervisor, mentor teacher, and summer school district coordinator. I have received “Highly Effective” evaluations as a teacher, as well as for the various other positions I have filled.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
I seek funding for, develop, supervise, and report on supplemental education opportunities for struggling students, school-wide to include Title I grant, 21st CCLC grant, SB-185 grant, Parent Engagement grant, Stretch-Run and CRT Initiative grants.
I have also classified and certified payroll for Title I, 21st Century, and various other grant funded positions. I provide support, supervision, and lessons for on-site supplemental education activities.
I also coach the volleyball team, the Cross-Country team, and the Track team. I am also a member of the Disability Awareness Coalition and provide supervision for after school activities and sporting events. In addition, I arrange, supervise, and report data for Saturday School sessions.
