Valarie Wickham
Shafter
Summary
Experienced and Certified Activity Director with a passion for patient care. Dedicated and passion driven for learning and obtaining knowledge through new working experiences. Fast learner who thrives in a fast paced environment. Skilled in supervising employees, maintaining a clean environment and ensuring the safety of patients and staff. Dedicated professional known for honesty, reliability, and strong work ethic. Committed to maintaining trust and building positive relationships with colleagues and residents .
Skilled in special education with a background in supporting diverse learners. Skilled in implementing individualized education plans, behavior management, and differentiated instruction. Strong focus on team collaboration, adapting to changing needs, and ensuring positive outcomes for students. Reliable with effective communication skills and compassionate approach to fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Instructional Aide
Norris School District
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of special education.
- Documented behaviors, implemented interventions, and treatment results.
- Assisted teachers and worked individually with students with special needs, helping each navigate education system.
- Collaborated with teachers to help with classroom and workload management.
- Supported teachers in creating inclusive classroom environments, fostering understanding and empathy among all students.
- Provided one-on-one assistance to students with special needs, reinforcing concepts taught during class time and helping them build confidence in their abilities.
- Served as a positive role model for students, demonstrating strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and empathy towards others.
- Promoted social-emotional growth by teaching self-regulation techniques and facilitating peer interactions among students.
- Adapted instructional materials and methods to accommodate diverse learners, ensuring equal access to curriculum content.
- Supported students during transition periods between activities, reducing anxiety and ensuring smooth transitions throughout the day.
- Assisted in the planning and execution of field trips and extracurricular activities, ensuring accessibility for all students involved.
- Maintained positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.
- Monitored student classroom and outdoors activities to promote student safety.
- Supported teacher in development of individual learning strategies.
- Oversaw class of students in absence of instructor.
- Encouraged students to participate in school activities and programs to promote well-roundedness and increase confidence.
- Set up visual aids, equipment, and classroom displays to support teacher's lesson delivery.
Activity Director
Rehab Center of Bakersfield
08.2021 - 08.2022
- Planning and budgeting for activities and events for staff and residents.
- Running assessments on residents to ensure activities were catered to their individual needs while also consulting other departments to ensure the patient was on the best plan for them.
- Monitoring, overseeing and ensuring care plans were made and maintain for all residents.
- Managing staff and volunteers.
CNS-Neuro Rehab Specialist
Centre for Neuro Skills
01.2014 - 12.2015
- Assisted residents with daily life skills to achieve independence.
- Trained new incoming staff members on how to achieve success with patients while also overcoming challenges with working with patients.
Dental Assistant
EMPIRE Dental
01.2013 - 12.2014
- Assisted with oral exams as well as setting up oral procedure trays, preparing patients for operatories.
- Expose digital radiography and film while also performing x-ray processing.
- Assisted the dentist by transferring instruments during procedures.
- Sanitized and autoclaved instruments.
- Ran front desk checking in and out the patients while also running insurance verification.
Education
High school diploma - undefined
East Bakersfield High School
Bakersfield, CA06.2011
Skills
- Infection Control Training
- Chairside Assisting
- Dental Assisting
- Dental Receptionist
- Event Planning
- HIPAA
- Office Management
- Medical Scheduling
- Point click care (Less than 1 year)
Certification
- Certified Dental Assistant
- Activity director certification Present
Timeline
Special Education Instructional Aide
Norris School District
08.2023 - 06.2024
Activity Director
Rehab Center of Bakersfield
08.2021 - 08.2022
CNS-Neuro Rehab Specialist
Centre for Neuro Skills
01.2014 - 12.2015
Dental Assistant
EMPIRE Dental
01.2013 - 12.2014
High school diploma - undefined
East Bakersfield High School
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