Open to opportunities

Marissa Smith

@marissasmith

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Dedicated special education teacher committed to student success.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that fosters collaboration, supports student growth, and encourages professional development.

I am a passionate special education teacher with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Teaching, specializing in Special Education. My journey in education began with a strong academic foundation, earning recognition such as the Principal Leadership Award and multiple Stewart Scholarships. I have a proven track record of supporting diverse learners, ensuring that each student receives tailored instruction that meets their unique needs.

Currently, I maintain a caseload of approximately 25 middle school special education students, where I design and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and foster a welcoming classroom environment. My experience includes collaborating with general education teachers, conducting IEP meetings, and actively participating in professional development. I am dedicated to creating inclusive learning spaces that empower students academically, emotionally, and behaviorally.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Special Education Teacher

Current

John Day School District

Aug 2023 - Present (1 year 10 months)

Maintained a caseload of approximately 25 middle school special education students, organizing and planning enrichment labs, modified language arts and math labs, social emotional learning, and family and consumer science classes. Provided specially designed instruction, academic, emotional, and behavioral support, and collaborated with general education teachers.

Special Education IEP Development Lesson planning Classroom Management Collaboration With Teachers Curriculum Development

Assistant Highschool Volleyball Coach

John Day High School

Jul 2023 - Present (1 year 11 months)

Assisted the head coach in training and developing high school volleyball players. Contributed to team strategy and player skill improvement during practices and games.

Coaching Team Leadership Athletic Training

Summer Tutor

Self Employed

Jun 2023 - Present (2 years)

Planned, organized, and delivered curriculum to both elementary and secondary age students, focusing on mathematics and language arts. Communicated effectively with families and supported students in completing reading, writing, and math assignments.

Tutoring Lesson planning Mathematics Communication With Families

Instructional Assistant (SPED)

John Day School District

Mar 2023 - Present (2 years 3 months)

Assisted special education teachers in preparing learning centers and student work, and provided one-on-one support to developmentally delayed students in regular education classrooms. Supported middle school boys with math and other coursework in the special education department.

Classroom Preparation Academic Support One On One Tutoring Developmental Support Classroom Management

Substitute Teacher

John Day School District

Feb 2023 - Present (2 years 4 months)

Conducted lesson plans for absent teachers and maintained normal classroom duties, including classroom management and taking attendance. Assisted students with schoolwork and organization, ensuring their success while the regular teacher was absent.

Classroom Management Lesson planning Student supervision Student Organization Academic Support

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Western Governors University

Master of Arts in Teaching, Special Education

Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching with a specialization in Special Education. Expected to complete the program in May 2025.

Grant Union High School

High school diploma, General Studies

Grade: 3.5 GPA

Activities and societies: Principal Leadership Award Recipient

Achieved a GPA of 3.5 and was recognized with the Principal Leadership Award. Completed high school education at Grant Union High School.

Linn Benton Community College

Associate's Degree, General Studies

Undertook studies at Linn Benton Community College from September 2019 to December 2019. Focused on foundational coursework to prepare for further academic pursuits.

Umpqua Community College

Associate's Degree, General Studies

Grade: 4.0 GPA

Activities and societies: President’s List Acknowledgement (3x), Stewart Scholarship Recipient, PTK Honor Society Member

Maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA and was acknowledged on the President's List three times. Became a member of the PTK Honor Society and received the Stewart Scholarship.

Eastern Oregon University

Bachelor of Science, Psychology

Grade: 3.4 GPA

Activities and societies: Stewart Scholarship Recipient

Graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Health Studies. Achieved a GPA of 3.4 and was a recipient of the Stewart Scholarship.