While working as a paraprofessional in the
Behavior Support Classroom from 2006 to 2008 for Plano ISD, I fell in love with
the structure of the environment as well as the teaching aspect. I quickly
learned how to recognize children’s strengths and weaknesses as well as the
skills to implement the tools needed to help those children become successful
in school, both behaviorally and scholarly. I spent much of my time working
inclusion with my students where I was exposed to the general education
classroom.
As I moved into Special education I have had many
opportunities to work with, not only students with special needs, but students
of all abilities. I have been exposed to many situations in the classroom and
do not hesitate to continue a lesson if a teacher is called out of the room. I
not only help students I am monitoring, but willing step in to help any student
in need. There have been times when I have had opportunities to teach the class
for a short time because a substitute did not show up. I have used formal and
informal assessments to monitor students’ growth and modified curriculum when
needed. I have worked inclusion in all elementary grade levels.
I was in the Aid Exemption Program through Texas
A&M University-Commerce. As I was preparing to enter my last semester
before graduation, I was informed that Plano ISD did not accept the program.
The school district’s policy stated that one could not student teach while
employed with the district. TAMUC allowed me to substitute student teaching
with two additional educational classes so that I could graduate on time.
Although I missed out on the benefits of student teaching, I believe my seven
years of experience as an educational aid has more than prepared me for the
classroom.
I have always been a team player and am willing
to jump in and help when needed. I am flexible and confident in my abilities. I
am not afraid to ask questions and love to brain storm with teammates. I am a
hard worker and dedicated to my students. I believe every student can be
successful and am willing to do what it takes to help them believe and achieve
that success. I am CPI trained and have spent most of my time as a teaching
assistant working with students who are behaviorally challenged.
My love and passion for teaching goes beyond the
special education classroom. I have a firm belief that I have the ability to
run a classroom and teach students to be successful. My special education
experiences, as well as my behavior modification experiences, have only strengthened
my abilities to be a strong teacher. It is my goal to combine my range of
experience with my ability to be a compassionate, enthusiastic, intelligent
teacher who will make a positive contribution to your school district.
