LATIFAH ROACH
North York,ON
Summary
Passionate and dedicated Lead Instructor with a strong background in child and youth work, committed to empowering children with diverse learning needs to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Specialize in inclusive, strengths-based approaches that build resilience and independence. Skilled in developing individualized support strategies, tracking progress through behavioral data, conducting assessments, and completing reports. Experienced in maintaining consistent, supportive communication with families and providing personalized resources tailored to meet families' specific needs. Strong in behavior management, crisis intervention, and de-escalation techniques. Proven ability to mentor staff and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Known for exceptional interpersonal communication, organizational skills, and a professional, reliable work ethic.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Instructor
Bright Start Academy
07.2022 - Current
- Deliver and facilitate inclusive instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of students with disabilities.
- Create and implement daily lesson plans tailored to individual IEP goals.
- Monitored student progress, and adapted instructional strategies to support learning outcomes.
- Prepare report cards, and maintain ongoing, supportive communication with parents.
- Provide families with educational resources, and advocate for additional support services.
- Train and mentor new staff members and intern students.
- Manage aggressive behaviors and implement de-escalation strategies to maintain a safe, supportive classroom environment.
Intern
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto
09.2021 - 04.2022
- Mentored children virtually, providing individualized academic and emotional support.
- Facilitated 1:1 and group empowerment sessions for youth aged 6–13.
- Developed mental health-focused session plans to build resilience and self-esteem.
- Supported children with behavioral and learning challenges.
Lead Counselor
Toronto Metropolitan University formerly known as Ryerson University
06.2017 - 08.2018
- Responsible for supervising and supporting 20 campers daily.
- Directed and organized camp plans to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Oversaw and coordinated a team of 5 camp staff.
- Ensured the safety and engagement of all campers.
- Trained in conflict resolution and cultural sensitivity to foster an inclusive camp environment.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Child and Youth Care
Toronto Metropolitan University
Toronto, ON01.2022
Diploma of College Studies (DEC) - Social Science
John Abbott College
Montreal, QC01.2015
High School Diploma -
Lindsay Place High School
Montreal, QC01.2012
Some College (No Degree) - Women's Studies
Concordia University
Montreal, QCSkills
- Special Education & Inclusion
- Lesson Planning & Curriculum Development
- IEP Development & Progress Monitoring
- Child Development Strategies
- Parent & Family Communication
- Behavior Management & De-escalation Techniques
- Staff & Intern Training and Mentorship
- Classroom Organization
- Resource Coordination
- Performance monitoring
- Team leadership
Accomplishments
Toronto Metropolitan University
Student | 2019 – 2020
- Achieved Dean’s List recognition for academic excellence
Toronto Metropolitan University Women’s Basketball
Team Member | 2018 – 2019
- Participated in community outreach initiatives promoting youth engagement in sports
- Strengthened leadership, communication, and teamwork abilities through team activities
- Volunteered at youth basketball events and clinics, supporting skill development and mentorship
Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA
Head Coach, AAA Midget Girls’ Basketball Team | 2017 – 2018
- Led coaching responsibilities including planning and scheduling of practices
- Guided the team to the finals in the O’Connor Basketball Tournament
- Focused on developing players' skills, techniques, and game strategy
- Fostered a positive, disciplined, and team-oriented environment
References
Winnie Banda
Supervisor at Bright Start Academy
1(705)-808-3937
Jummy Shodunke
Co-worker at Bright Start Academy
647-807-9841
Jodi Intern Mentor
416-951-5832
Sheree Wells
Senior Manager, Service Delivery
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto
✉️ Sheree.Wells@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Timeline
Lead Instructor
Bright Start Academy
07.2022 - Current
Intern
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto
09.2021 - 04.2022
Lead Counselor
Toronto Metropolitan University formerly known as Ryerson University
06.2017 - 08.2018
Bachelor’s Degree - Child and Youth Care
Toronto Metropolitan University
Diploma of College Studies (DEC) - Social Science
John Abbott College
High School Diploma -
Lindsay Place High School
Some College (No Degree) - Women's Studies
Concordia University