Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Heather Payne

Spotsylvania

Summary

Dynamic instructional assistant with a proven track record at James Monroe High School, excelling in behavior management and fostering student engagement. Adept at utilizing assistive technology and building trusting relationships, I effectively supported special education students, enhancing their resilience and independence in learning environments. Committed to creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere for all learners.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Instructional Assistant

James Monroe High School
Fredericksburg
08.2018 - Current
  • Motivated students to achieve academic success while fostering an environment of respect and acceptance.
  • Assisted with transitioning from one activity to another throughout the day as needed by the student.
  • Attended professional development sessions related to working with special education populations.
  • Managed class of special education students in absence of lead teacher.
  • Monitored behavior of students in order to ensure a safe, positive learning environment.
  • Encouraged independent thinking, problem solving, and self-advocacy skills among students.
  • Improved behavior with modification and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Consulted with teachers regarding student progress, IEP adjustments and classroom needs.
  • Supported the development of social skills through modeling appropriate behavior and interactions with peers.
  • Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
  • Collaborated with teacher to develop personalized and successful learning strategies.
  • Supported postgraduate students on work-based learning experiences on and off campus.
  • Supported postgraduate students run weekly coffee cafe.

Special Needs Bus Driver

Fredericksburg City Schools
Fredericksburg
08.2014 - 08.2018
  • Adhered to strict time requirements for bus route scheduling and reported delays to dispatch.
  • Maintained appropriate behavior on bus and reported policy infractions to professionals for immediate remediation.
  • Ensured all safety regulations were followed while operating the bus.
  • Assisted passengers in wheelchairs by using appropriate lifting techniques when required.
  • Provided assistance to disabled passengers as needed during route stops and transfers.
  • Acquired and maintained certification in basic first aid and CPR.
  • Communicated effectively with students, parents, staff members, supervisors and other drivers regarding transportation services provided.

Preschool Teacher

Hazelwild Dayschool
Fredericksburg
07.2008 - 07.2014
  • Adapted instructional methods based on individual student needs.
  • Incorporated music, art, games, books, blocks, puzzles into daily instruction.
  • Engaged with children on individual basis to build positive, trusting relationships.
  • Adapted instructional techniques according to student learning styles and progress.
  • Monitored student behavior to ensure compliance with rules and expectations set forth by school administration.
  • Assisted in providing a safe and secure environment for children.

Education

Associate of Applied Science - Elementary Education

Germanna Community College
Fredericksburg, VA
12-2007

High School Diploma -

James Monroe High School
Fredericksburg, VA
06-2002

Skills

  • Behavior management
  • Classroom support
  • Assistive technology
  • Special education methods
  • Time management
  • Student engagement
  • Relationship building
  • Multitasking
  • Caring and empathetic demeanor
  • Decision-making
  • Professionalism
  • Excellent communication
  • Team collaboration

Accomplishments

  • 2023 Divisional Instructional Assistant
  • VSBA Excellence in Workforce Readiness Award

Timeline

Instructional Assistant

James Monroe High School
08.2018 - Current

Special Needs Bus Driver

Fredericksburg City Schools
08.2014 - 08.2018

Preschool Teacher

Hazelwild Dayschool
07.2008 - 07.2014

Associate of Applied Science - Elementary Education

Germanna Community College

High School Diploma -

James Monroe High School

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Heather Payne