Ms M Classroom

After working for the Department of Corrections as an officer (male facility) I was asked to take a position as the "At Risk Teenager Coordinator" for a local organization. Working with them inspired me to switch my field of study from forensic psychology to Special Education. Throughout my time in college courses I served as a tutor (for reading, math, and ESOL students), a substitute teacher, and coaching sports for children K-8. In the realm of Special Education, I feel most comfortable teaching Intensive Academics, Intensive Intervention, Behavior/Emotional disorders (Social Behavior classrooms) and students with Autism (Social Communications) Aside from working in the schools and privately tutoring, I also work with numerous non-profit agencies with children of all ages.

Student-centered classroom. Most of my lessons and instruction are geared towards group/partner work. Cooperative learning and themed units are typically my teaching style for all ages and classrooms. Culture, diversity, culture, and concepts of humility are all themes found in my lessons and daily teaching practices.

Community Service Award and President's List (University 3 years) Summa Cum Laude, Golden Apple Scholarship Award, Highly Effective teacher recognition

Certified Correctional Officer- State of Florida and State of Texas AA- specializing in Psychology BA- Special Education (Psychology/Special Ed focus) Endorsements for Reading and English as a Second Language Certifications in: Special Education K-12, Physical Education K-12, and English for Middle Grades 5-9 Character Education training

Children classified or diagnosed with behavior/emotional disorders, social communication issues (generally falling into the Autism Spectrum), Learning disabilities, and other areas of Special Education are all areas I feel most comfortable. However, I have a great deal of experience working with ESOL/ESL students, as I tend to work with children from low-income families, migrant communities, and live in an area with a high immigration/migrant population. I work with numerous non-profits and community organizations that reach out to families and children in the community. I believe getting involved with community service work is important as a teacher, but also as a person. Knowing the resources located within our own community can only help benefit our students, parents, coworkers, and others in the community. http://mrsmsinsights.weebly.com/ http://msmsclassideas.blogspot.com/