Melinda K. Taylor

*** ******* ****. ~ Clarksville, Tn. 37040 ~ nddt67@r.postjobfree.com

Home 931-***-**** Cell 931-***-****

Teacher

~ Caring ~ Compassionate ~ Supportive ~ Creative ~ Accommodating ~

Dedicated child advocate with a solid focus on the individual needs of identified and Special Education students. Kindhearted and empathetic professional who is flexible and accommodating in the design and implementation of inspiring hands-on lessons, employing manipulatives, and IEPs to enhance student achievement. Skilled in addressing students’ needs, ensuring children will thrive and develop in an adaptable educational atmosphere. Firm behavioral management techniques, possesses excellent interpersonal and communications skills to develop an excellent rapport with all members of the school community.

Areas of proficiency include:

Student Motivation Use of manipulatives

Multidisciplinary Education Plans Student Centered Learning Environment

Technology Integration Learning Centers

Multi-sensory lessons Individualized Education Plans

Themed Units Parent/Teacher Conferences

Education and Credentials

Master of Education (2012); Major: Special Education: Curriculum and Instruction

Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, Tn.

Bachelor of Science (2005); Major: Special Education

Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, Tn.

Associate of Science (1991);Major: Computer Science

Draughons Jr. College, Clarksville, Tn.

Special Education Teaching Certification (Highly Qualified)

Aptitude Habilitation Services 2012 - present

Behavioral Tutor

Implement strategies to teach programs based on goals for the child with Autism. Coordinate with parents and other providers to ensure child receives the best possible education while keeping data on each visit.

• Promote active learning and remain flexible with students and methods of instruction.

• Promote means of increasing behavioral, social, and academic development.

• Assist child in understanding appropriate and acceptable social behavior.

Melinda K. Taylor – Page 2

Teaching Experience Continued….

Liberty Elementary, Clarksville, Tn. 2006 – 2011

Special Education Teacher / Resource Teacher

Develop and implement individualized education program for each special education student. Identify and implement goals tailored to the students’ individual needs and abilities. Coordinate with parents, teachers, teacher’s assistants, and various service providers to ensure the students receive the best possible education.

• Consult with colleagues to ensure materials meet the needs of the diverse learners.

• Actively supported teaching professionals on work strategies for diverse learners.

• Employed diverse techniques to promote active learning and remain flexible to accommodate special modifications to the program.

• Actively involved in students’ behavioral, social, and academic development.

• Aid students in developing emotionally, feeling comfortable in social situations.

• Aid students in being aware of social acceptable behavior.

• Actively teach/train teachers assistants in ways to help students reach their potential.

• Dedicated, resourceful, and goal driven professional educator with a solid commitment to the social and academic growth and development of every child.

• Employed kinesthetic, visual, and auditory approach to make lessons interesting and interactive.

• Enhanced student academic and social growth by using varied teaching strategies and techniques including whole group, individual, small group, and teacher modeling to provide a strong foundation and a positive attitude toward education.

• Held IEP meetings when appropriate.

Liberty Elementary, Clarksville, TN. 2006 - 2006

Behavior Classroom Educational Assistant

Followed the lesson plans developed by the teacher. Assisted with behavior problems as needed. Taught individualized lessons developed by the teacher.

• Upheld classroom management for the best possible learning environment.

• Maintained a positive rapport with the students.

• Developed methods for the students to deescalate their anger.

• Taught children academic lessons when needed.

• Attended IEP meeting when needed.

Dover Elementary, Dover, Tn, 2000 – 2005

Teacher Assistant in Special Education Resource Classroom

Co-teaching with the classroom teacher to ensure all students were reaching their potential. Assisted with any issues that the teacher needed help with during the day.

• Developed lesson plans for my groups.

• Prepared materials for lessons.

• Performed teachers duties when she was absent.

Melinda K. Taylor - Page 3___________________________________

• Maintained flexibility in order to be used in any other classroom if needed.

Professional Development Initiatives

CPI Training ~ 2000 – 2008

TCAP Testing Standards ~ 2006 – 2010

Teaching the Many While Disciplining the Few ~ 2010

Temple Grandin Seminar ~ 2010

Suicide Prevention ~ 2006 - 2011

Professional Organizations and Community Initiatives

Council for Exceptional Children ~ 2012

Tennessee Education Association ~ 2009 – 2011

AAU Basketball Coach Boys and Girls Teams ~ 1996 - 2000

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