HCBS Direct Support Professional

• Sep 2021 - Present

Substitute Paraprofessional

• May 2019 - Jan 2022

During high school I completed a work study in a 2nd grade classroom and in a classroom with an instructional strategist. I quickly fell in love with working with students who have various disabilities. After graduating, I was able to substitute as a paraprofessional and gain more experience in the classroom. While going to school for Elementary and Special Education at Morningside, I was a substitute paraprofessional in both the Elementary and Middle school when I didn’t have class! While working in the field, I was able to improve my skills and collaborate with different professionals. I worked with various students, teachers, other paraprofessionals, and staff throughout my time subbing which allowed me to gain different experiences. I provided social, emotional, and academic support while also being challenged with behaviors. This allowed me to work on skills such as behavioral management, classroom management, decision making, problem solving, communication, and conflict resolution. I also gained experience with using accommodations such as assistive technology. Understanding what an IEP is and how to implement and modify curriculum, assignments, and assessments was another skill that I learned throughout the experience. Show less

Softball Umpire

• May 2019 - Jun 2021

I was a middle school softball umpire in 2019 and 2021. In 2020, there were no summer sports due to Covid. While working as an umpire I had to communicate and build relationships with players, coaches, and spectators. I officiated the games, enforced the rules, made judgement calls, and ensured teams followed safety regulations. I was often behind the plate, which allowed me to work on making decisions under pressure. Since I worked with middle schoolers who may have just been learning the rules of the game, it was important to stay accurate, consistent, and be able to explain rules and reasons behind calls in depth to young learners. Show less