Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Teaching Philosophy
Professional Development And Trainings
Awards
University Teaching Interests
Timeline
Generic

Mary Hagan

Reading Specialist
Falls Church,VA

Summary

Dedicated and passionate educator with 14 years of experience in public education, specializing in literacy instruction and intervention. Seeking to contribute to the academic community at Marymount University as an adjunct professor in the School of Education. Committed to bridging opportunity gaps and advancing equitable literacy outcomes for all students. History of successfully planning, delivering, and assessing reading intervention plans. Compliant with Title 1 guidelines and knowledgeable about a wide range of successful strategies. Reading professional dedicated to enhancing student literacy and fostering love for reading. Offers extensive experience in developing tailored reading programs and interventions to address various learning needs. Known for collaborative teamwork and achieving impactful results in dynamic educational environments. Skilled in curriculum development, assessment, and student engagement.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience
6051
6051
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Certifications

Work History

Reading Specialist

DC Public Schools
06.2022 - 06.2025
  • Delivered targeted, data-driven reading interventions for students in grades K-5.
  • Implemented research-based literacy frameworks including the Wilson Reading System and LETRS strategies.
  • Led professional development for colleagues on evidence-based practices in reading instruction.
  • Collaborated with families, teachers, and support staff to ensure inclusive and equitable learning outcomes.
  • Implemented differentiated instructional techniques catering to various learning styles, maximizing effectiveness of interventions delivered to each student.
  • Coordinated efforts with ESL instructors when working with English language learners, ensuring language barriers were addressed during intervention sessions.

Elementary Educator (Various Grade Levels)

DC Public Schools
07.2014 - 06.2022
  • Taught a range of elementary grades with a consistent track record of student achievement growth.
  • Differentiated instruction for diverse learners including English Language Learners and students with IEPs.
  • Developed and delivered engaging, standards-aligned curriculum in all content areas, with a strong emphasis on early literacy.
  • Served as a mentor teacher and instructional lead, supporting school-wide literacy initiatives.
  • Maintained knowledge of school curricula, standards and policies to correctly prepare students for higher grade levels.
  • Managed a group pf 20-30 students daily.
  • Developed learning objectives for each subject area to quantify learning and set benchmarks.

Kindergarten Teacher's Aide, Substitute Teacher

Burlington School District
Burlington, VT
08.2011 - 06.2014
  • Actively participated in staff meetings, contributing valuable insights related to curriculum planning, assessment design, or school-wide initiatives.
  • Administered assessments under the guidance of the lead teacher, utilizing data to inform future instructional decisions.
  • Contributed to a positive school climate by modeling professionalism, enthusiasm for teaching, and dedication to ongoing growth as an educator.
  • Prepared instructional materials and maintained an organized classroom space conducive to learning for all students.

Education

Ph.D. - Literacy Education

Saint John's University
Queens, NY
05.2022

M.Ed. - Education

Saint Michael's College
Colchester, VT
05.2016

B.A. - Classics - Latin and Philosophy

Saint Michael's College
Colchester, VT
05.2011

Skills

Student engagement

Small group instruction

Parent-teacher collaboration

Interactive teaching

Verbal and written communication

Multisensory teaching

Response to intervention

Dyslexia support

Certification

Reading Specialist Certification, OSSE, 2022-current

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that teaching children how to read is one of the most powerful and life-changing responsibilities an educator can undertake. Literacy is a gateway to opportunity, self-expression, and lifelong learning. My mission throughout my career has been to close the literacy opportunity gap by equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to become proficient, joyful readers. I approach teaching with compassion, rigor, and a deep belief in every child's potential.

Professional Development And Trainings

  • LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) - ongoing
  • Wilson Reading System Level I - ongoing
  • Ongoing participation in equity-centered literacy training and workshops

Awards

Highly Effective Teacher Rating, DCPS (Multiple Years)

University Teaching Interests

  • Foundations of Literacy Instruction
  • Language and Literacy Development
  • Reading Diagnosis and Intervention
  • Culturally Responsive Teaching
  • Elementary Literacy Methods
  • Supporting Diverse Learners in the Literacy Classroom

Timeline

Reading Specialist

DC Public Schools
06.2022 - 06.2025

Elementary Educator (Various Grade Levels)

DC Public Schools
07.2014 - 06.2022

Kindergarten Teacher's Aide, Substitute Teacher

Burlington School District
08.2011 - 06.2014

Ph.D. - Literacy Education

Saint John's University

M.Ed. - Education

Saint Michael's College

B.A. - Classics - Latin and Philosophy

Saint Michael's College
Mary HaganReading Specialist