Department Chair
I am writing with the goal of attaining a part time teaching position in the Psychology Department.
As one of your department’s instructors, you would find me to be someone who is passionate
about student success in a learner centered environment.
As an educator for the past twelve years, I have several principles that guide my teaching
philosophy. First, I have always made it my duty to challenge and support students according to
their individual strengths and needs, since each student should be accepted for who and where
they are in life and in their educational journey. I am also a strong believer in both formative and
summative assessment, since assessing students to determine the instruction they need is
essential to evaluate each individual’s strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, I believe that a
great classroom environment is one that contains clear instruction, motivation, and an absence of
limits to how far the mind will grow. The environment should offer opportunities for students to
communicate and use their knowledge, since classroom discussion is an essential part of student
exploration and knowledge. The classroom should also be optimistic, encouraging, and a safe
place for students to discover new ideas and make mistakes at the same time. Finally, my
philosophy is guided by the belief that positive feedback and personal reflection are necessary
and productive. I’ve found this in my own educational and professional journey. Through
teamwork with other peers and students, I have opened my mind up to increase my wisdom and
knowledge base as well. There is no learning better than through personal experience and
reflection.
After working for many years in elementary education, and working with a diverse adult population
in the field of psychology, I want to further my experience and educate college age students and
non traditional student/professionals. Much of my experience is transferable, specifically in the
areas of teaching. I would look forward to furthering my career growth through a teaching position
online or in person in the evenings or on weekends. I am confident that my experience and
personable disposition would be an asset to your department.
Sincerely,
Jennie Small
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Jennie Small
Current Address: 7162 W. Pontiac Drive
Glendale, AZ 85308
Current Telephone 602-***-****
Email: *************@*****.***
Education:
B.A. Psychology: Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL: May 1997
M.A. Counseling/Forensics: Argosy University, Phoenix, AZ: October 2006
Ph.D. School Psychology: Walden University, Minneapolis, MN: (Expected 2012)
Certifications:
C.O.T.A: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant: Apollo College, Phoenix, AZ: 1999
Teaching Certificate: Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ: May 2002
Work Experience:
Happy Valley Charter School: March 2001 present
Faculty, Master Teacher,
Teach first through third grade students all subjects; assist in research; develop and modify
curriculum and lesson plans that are directly aligned with the Arizona State Standards; implement
No Child Left Behind strategies; facilitate student discussions; provide feedback to students;
grade assignments; enforce classroom management; identify and assess students who
demonstrate behaviors associated with learning disabilities and other behavioral issues; assist a
multidisciplinary team in developing Individual Education Plans and behavior modification plans;
administer achievement batteries and curriculum based assessments; develop intervention plans
and monitor student progress inside and outside the classroom.
Value Options: August 2000 to January 2001
Faculty,
Provided clinical oversight to multiple case managers and clients; worked in collaboration with
clients and their family members to implement service plans, and options; served as a point of
contact, coordinating and communicating with primary care providers, juvenile and adult probation
agencies, and other related services; referred clients to community resources; monitored the
continuity of care between inpatient and outpatient settings; worked with a multidisciplinary team
to ensure weekly updates and coordination of care., Peoria School District: 1999 2000
Substitute Teacher
Taught K 8 as a substitute teacher; reviewed and implemented lesson plans and curriculum;
consulted with teachers and professionals; provided feedback regarding student behavior and
academic success.
New Vision for Spiritual Living:
Counseling Intern,
Provided psychological services to children, families, and adults; duties included client
assessment, evaluation, intervention, consultation, and counseling; assisted in the development of
a psycho educational children’s group; explored and utilized multiple theories and modalities with
a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Supervisor: David Pillar (MDIV) & Dr. Dan Short.
Devereux Treatment Facility: June 1997
Psychology Intern,
Assisted a multidisciplinary team that utilized cognitive, behavioral, developmental, and family
systems treatment orientations; worked to provide programs and community services to children,
adults, and families experiencing behavioral challenges due to abuse, neglect, mental illness, and
substance abuse.
Tatum Church of Christ:
Group Director,
Directed a psycho educational group called “Strong Kids” which focused on social and emotional
learning, awareness, and coping skills. The group stemmed from The Oregon Resiliency Project.
Additional Training:
Walden University, 30 hours of hands on training in assessment, evaluation and interpretation of
psychological assessments. Assessments include norm referenced tests, criteria referenced
tests, and curriculum based assessment. Specifically, the WISC III, WAIS IV, WIAT II.
Argosy University. Fall 2006. Proposed, conducted, and defended master’s thesis project on an
extensive case study. Advisor: Sarah Smoger
Honors and Awards:
Psi Chi National Honors Society, Walden University, 2010
Professional Societies:
National Association of School Psychology (NASP)
American Psychological Association (APA)
Midwestern Psychological Association (MPA)
Southwestern Psychological Association (SWPA)
References:
Available upon request