Selena Karapalides | OCT #755258

Ontario Certified Teacher (Primary/Junior) and dedicated Occasional Teacher currently seeking occasional teaching opportunities with the York Region District School Board. Committed to creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments that support the diverse needs of all learners, including multilingual students. Experienced in implementing differentiated instruction and focused on building positive relationships, fostering student confidence, and contributing to collaborative and innovative school communities.

October - November 2023 Kindergarten Student Teacher

Woodbridge Public School, York Region District School Board 

• Conducted classroom observations and maintained anecdotal notes
  → Observed daily classroom activities and recorded notes on student behavior, participation, and progress.
• Worked with students in small groups to assess math and literacy skills
  → Supported small group instruction and helped assess students' understanding of key math and literacy concepts.
• Observed how lessons are structured
  → Gained insight into effective lesson planning, pacing, and instructional strategies.
• Helped manage classroom behavior and maintain a positive learning environment
  → Assisted with behavior management and promoted a respectful, engaging classroom atmosphere.
• Learned how to assess student understanding through observation and informal checks
  → Used informal methods like questioning and observation to monitor student learning and participation.

March - April  2024 Grade 5 Student Teacher
St. Clement Catholic School , York Region Catholic District School Board

• Observed how lessons are structured
  → Gained understanding of lesson components, pacing, transitions, and differentiation techniques used to meet diverse learning needs.
• Learned how to assess student understanding through observation and informal checks
  → Used strategies such as questioning, exit tickets, and student discussions to gauge comprehension and guide instruction.
• Worked with students in small groups
  → Provided targeted support in literacy and math; reinforced key concepts through guided practice and collaborative activities.
• Planned and executed two lessons for science and art
  → Designed and delivered engaging, inquiry-based lessons that promoted critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on learning.
• Supported individual students with academic or behavioral needs
  → Offered one-on-one assistance and adapted materials to ensure accessibility and success for all learners.
• Assisted with classroom management and daily routines
  → Helped maintain a positive, structured environment by reinforcing rules, managing transitions, and encouraging respectful behavior.
• Collaborated with mentor teacher and peers
  → Participated in planning sessions and team discussions to align instruction with curriculum goals and student needs.
• Used educational tools and materials effectively
  → Integrated manipulatives, visual aids, and technology to support diverse learning styles and enhance engagement.

October - December 2024 Kindergarten Student Teacher
Teston Village Public School, York Region District School Board | Maple, ON

• Planned and taught daily lessons for math, literacy, and science
  → Designed and delivered engaging, age-appropriate lessons aligned with curriculum goals and learning outcomes.
• Worked in small groups to assess students' math and literacy skills
  → Supported differentiated instruction and monitored progress through targeted small-group activities.
• Organized small group assessments for math and literacy at the end of each unit
  → Conducted informal assessments to evaluate student understanding and inform future instruction.
• Supported children during play-based learning and structured activities
  → Encouraged social-emotional development and exploration through guided play and hands-on learning experiences.
• Maintained anecdotal notes based on informal assessments through observation and documentation
  → Tracked student growth and learning behaviors to support individualized instruction and reporting.
• Implemented UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) phonics lessons
  → Delivered structured, research-based literacy instruction focused on phonemic awareness, decoding, and fluency.

February - April 2025 Grade 5 Student Teacher 

Teston Village Public School, York Region District School Board | Maple, ON

• Differentiated lessons for students with varying needs and learning styles, including MLLs and students with exceptionalities
  → Adapted instruction, materials, and activities to support inclusive learning and ensure accessibility for all students.
• Planned and taught daily lessons for literacy, math, and art
  → Created engaging, curriculum-aligned lessons that incorporated hands-on activities, visual aids, and technology to enhance learning.
• Worked with small groups and individual students who needed additional support
  → Provided targeted instruction and interventions to reinforce key concepts and build student confidence.
• Provided timely and constructive feedback on assignments and classwork
  → Encouraged growth by highlighting strengths and identifying areas for improvement in a supportive manner.
• Assessed student understanding through observation and informal checks for learning
  → Used strategies such as questioning, exit slips, and anecdotal records to inform instruction and address learning gaps.
• Recorded student behavior, participation, and academic progress
  → Maintained detailed notes and logs to support ongoing assessment, communication with teachers, and individualized planning.
• Collaborated with the classroom teacher to support lesson planning and classroom management
  → Participated in discussions on student progress, curriculum delivery, and behavioral strategies.
• Integrated educational tools and strategies to support diverse learners
  → Utilized manipulatives, visual organizers, and digital resources to engage students and support different learning modalities.

• Renewable Entrance Scholarship (Four Years of Undergraduate)
  Achieved a minimum GPA of 80% each year at the University of Guelph-Humber.
• Deans List (Two Years of Teachers College) Achieved a minimum of 80% each year at Niagara University
• Promoting an Inclusive & Diverse Workplace in Childcare: Team Member Training
• Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
• Vertical Learning PLC