Carolyn Russo

• Conducted professional development workshops to improve instructional strategies.
• Provided guidance on curriculum design and implementation.
• Assisted teachers in implementing best practices in the classroom.
• Created resources for teachers to use when designing learning experiences.
• Implemented current instruction techniques used by teachers in their classrooms.
• Developed curriculum and learning materials to increase comprehension and engagement.

General Currie Elementary 2006 - 2017

Samuel Brighouse Elementary 2017 - 2023

• Created a safe environment where students felt included and a sense of belonging.
• Reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion as priorities in my practice and with students.
• Provided students with meaningful experiences and assignments where they could reflect on where and how they are using the Core Competencies.
• Used the Pillars of Literacy to nurture students' growth as readers, writers, thinkers and communicators.
• Developed lesson plans and instructional materials to support student learning.
• Encouraged critical thinking skills through inquiry-based experiences and discussions.
• Facilitated small group instruction to accommodate individual learning styles.
• Implemented a UDL framework with multiple means of engagement through hands-on activities, videos, and class discussions.
• Instructed students in a variety of academic subjects utilizing differentiated methods of teaching.
• Provided guidance for students with special needs, including those with IEPs.
• Created a learning environment appropriate for student learning and physical, social and emotional development.
• Conducted formative assessment practices to evaluate student progress and adjust instruction accordingly, such as phonemic awareness assessment, D.A.R.T., performance based reading assessments, and school-wide assessments.
• Engaged in collaborative problem solving with students to resolve conflicts.
• Organized field trips to enhance the educational experience of students.
• Collaborated with other teachers, administrators, and parents to ensure student success.
• Communicated regularly with parents regarding student progress and behavior.
• Scheduled and held parent-teacher conferences to keep parents up-to-date on children's academic performance.
• Established positive relationships with students, parents, fellow teachers and school administrators.
• Assisted fellow teachers with curriculum development, reporting procedures and administrative updates.
• Engaged in professional development opportunities to stay current on practices, pedagogy, and teaching philosophy.

• Provided guidance and support to new teachers through individual mentoring sessions.
• Conducted observations of new teachers in the classroom, providing feedback and advice for improvement.
• Created resources to assist new teachers in their classrooms.
• Encouraged open communication between mentor and mentee pairs to foster trust and understanding.
• Mentored beginning educators on how to effectively manage student behavior within the classroom setting.
• Provided positive feedback with emphasis on learning from experiences to establish solid foundation for progress.
• Attended district-wide meetings to discuss best practices for mentoring new teachers.

• Assisted in the development of Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
• Coordinated team meetings focused on developing appropriate goals and objectives for each student's IEP.
• Advocated for diverse students needs.
• Provided direct instruction to small groups of students on academic and social skills, as well as behavior management techniques.
• Conducted small group and individual classroom assignments with students based on differentiated learning needs.
• Monitored student progress and provided feedback to teachers and parents on a regular basis.
• Developed and implemented instructional assignments that were tailored to meet the individual needs of each student.
• Designed differentiated instruction plans based upon assessment results.
• Collaborated with classroom teachers to develop strategies for meeting the unique educational needs of individual students and to include students in classroom activities.
• Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
• Attended parent-teacher conferences to discuss concerns about their child's academic performance or behavior.
• Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
• Encouraged curiosity, exploration and problem-solving.

• Facilitated the coordination of teachers, staff, parents, and community members to ensure a positive learning environment.
• Coordinated professional development activities for staff members on topics such as technology integration and differentiated instruction.
• Ensured compliance with district regulations regarding curriculum design, instruction, assessment, and reporting.
• Facilitated monthly staff meetings to address school and district needs and updates
• Conducted regular meetings with staff to discuss current issues in education and develop strategies for improvement.
• Resolved conflicts between students, parents, staff members, or community members through mediation sessions.
• Created opportunities for meaningful parent involvement in their children's education.
• Worked with parents to help improve student behavior and academic performance.
• Assisted in the recruitment of new teachers by interviewing candidates and making hiring recommendations.
• Provided opportunities for collaboration among staff
• Provided school-wide community building opportunities
• Maintained continuity of leadership and made decisions quickly.

• Co-wrote "Collaboration: The Heart of the School-Based Practicum" published in book: "Problem-Based Learning in Teacher Education"

• Facilitated group discussions and activities to ensure successful outcomes.
• Created a safe environment for participants to express their opinions without fear of judgement or criticism.
• Encouraged collaborative problem solving through active listening techniques.
• Supported learners by providing additional guidance where necessary.
• Resolved conflicts between participants using effective communication skills.
• Organized materials and resources required for each session in advance.
• Conducted research into best practices related to the facilitation process.