Kristina Medina
Playa del Rey
Summary
Academic professional demonstrating proven success in diverse student learning outcomes through creative and innovative curriculum delivery methods. Fosters student growth within and outside of the classroom leaving them with the skills to succeed on their own in the future.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
El Segundo School District
08.2024 - Current
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
Special Education Teacher
Region 15 School District
04.2022 - 06.2024
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Taught Essentials Math III Geometry and Essentials Math IV Personal Finance
- Collaborative with teachers, administrators, instructional assistants and parents to help students be successful.
Long-Term Special Education Substitute
Chapman Elementary
12.2021 - 04.2022
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies and tools.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs. Worked with students specifically from K-3.
- Instructed students in core academic areas and specialized reading groups including Wilson, SPIRE and Sound Sensible.
- Used de-escalation techniques to support struggling students.
Adjunct Professor
Quinnipiac University
08.2018 - 12.2022
- Teach four 3-credit courses on Public Speaking (COM 150) & Media, History and Memory (MSS 220), Media Industry & Trends (COM 120) and First Year Seminar (FYS)
- During MSS 220 we look at major events in history through the eyes of the media
- During COM 150 we work on written and oral communication skills through researching topics, formulating arguments and adapting to audience interest
- Assist students in developing critical thinking skills and utilizing supporting evidence
- Guide students to research, interpret and form opinions
- Create public speaking skills through group presentations
- Allow students the opportunity to use critical thinking skills in a safe environment
- Encourage students to step outside of their comfort zone, applying themes and theories into practice
- Build lasting rapport and connections with students
- Boosted class participation rates by fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment.
- Increased student retention by providing individualized support and tailored feedback on assignments.
- Cultivated strong relationships with colleagues, participating in interdisciplinary initiatives aimed at enhancing the academic experience for students.
Instructional Assistant
Highland Elementary School
12.2020 - 06.2021
- Assist students reach the curriculum by providing accommodations and following their IEP's
- Work collaboratively with teachers
Substitute Teacher
Cheshire Public Schools
10.2019 - 03.2020
- Enhanced student learning by optimizing wide range of instructional approaches and innovative classroom activities
- Promoted student progress by assisting with assignments and special projects
- Maintained smooth classroom operations by assisting teachers with any administrative, instructional or student support needs
Online ESL Teacher
51 Talk
08.2017 - 01.2019
- Taught students the basics of English grammar and conversational speaking
- Analyzed non-verbal communication and react to it by changing my teaching method
- Strong time management skills to lengthen and shorten lessen material based on student needs
E-Tutor
Charter Oak State College
10.2015 - 06.2016
- Assist English Language Learner students with their writing assignments
- Counsel students on creating thesis statements and understanding assignment guidelines
- Implemented teaching styles and methods best suited to distance learning and specifically geared to individual student needs.
- Managed online classroom environments effectively by setting clear expectations and maintaining consistent communication with students.
Substitute Teacher and District Tutor
Bristol Public Schools
08.2009 - 01.2014
- Long Term Substitute Teacher for six different positions Courses include: World History, US History, AP History, Global Studies, AP Psychology, Freshman English, ELL English, Senior English, ELL Writing, Spanish I, Italian I, and Italian III
- Created lesson plans, modified lessons, assignments, exams, projects, and was responsible for all grading
- Helped students at home reach the curriculum in English and Social Studies
Education
Master of Science - Special Education
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT2022
Master of Arts - Education
University of New Haven
West Haven, CT2010
Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations And History
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT2008
Skills
- Proficient in Blackboard and Frontline
- Individualized support
- Student-centered learning
- Effective time management
- Student motivation
- Problem-solving attitude
- De-escalation strategies
- Leadership
- Group and individual instruction
- Motivating students
- Trained in CPI
- Collaborative
Certification
CT STATE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR - 026 HISTORY & SOCIAL STUDIES
CT STATE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR - 165 SPECIAL EDUCATION
CA STATE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR - MILD/MOD SPECIAL EDUCATION
Accomplishments
Helped create the Cheshire Special Educations PTA
Recruited members
Built community of parents
Fundraised
Worked with schools to make positive change
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
El Segundo School District
08.2024 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Region 15 School District
04.2022 - 06.2024
Long-Term Special Education Substitute
Chapman Elementary
12.2021 - 04.2022
Instructional Assistant
Highland Elementary School
12.2020 - 06.2021
Substitute Teacher
Cheshire Public Schools
10.2019 - 03.2020
Adjunct Professor
Quinnipiac University
08.2018 - 12.2022
Online ESL Teacher
51 Talk
08.2017 - 01.2019
E-Tutor
Charter Oak State College
10.2015 - 06.2016
Substitute Teacher and District Tutor
Bristol Public Schools
08.2009 - 01.2014
CT STATE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR - 026 HISTORY & SOCIAL STUDIES
CT STATE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR - 165 SPECIAL EDUCATION
CA STATE CERTIFIED EDUCATOR - MILD/MOD SPECIAL EDUCATION
Master of Science - Special Education
Quinnipiac University
Master of Arts - Education
University of New Haven
Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations And History
Quinnipiac University
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