Open to opportunities

Shalei Matthews

@shaleimatthews

Message

Dedicated special education teacher with strong communication and organizational skills.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am seeking a role that allows me to further develop my skills in education and support diverse learners while fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

I am a dedicated Special Education Teacher currently working at Lafayette High, where I provide tailored instruction to students in grades 9 through 12. My role involves developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and implementing research-based interventions for students with diverse needs, including autism spectrum disorders and dyslexia. I pride myself on my ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to create safe and effective learning environments, ensuring that each student receives the support they need to thrive.

In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I also serve as a Virtual Secretary/Assistant for Embracing Life Therapies, where I manage calendars and perform data entry while maintaining a high level of communication. My previous experience as a Youth Development Instructor has equipped me with the skills to teach life and social goals to high school students on the autism spectrum, further enhancing my ability to connect with students and foster their growth.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Virtual Secretary/Assistant

Current

Embracing Life Therapies

Sep 2023 - Present (2 years)

Examined and corrected biopsychosocial assessments to meet court requirements. Managed calendars for the CEO and maintained a 24-hour communication response rate.

Data Entry Calendar Management Communication Administrative Support

Current

Special Education Teacher

Current

Lafayette Parish School System

Aug 2023 - Present (2 years 1 month)

Provided small group and individual instruction to students ranging from 9th grade to 12th grade, developed individualized education plans (IEP's), and monitored student progress. Implemented, planned, and delivered research-based interventions for students with autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, and behavioral disorders.

Special Education Curriculum Development Data Analysis

Youth Development Instructor

XP-Synergy: Opportunity Now

Jul 2022 - Present (3 years 2 months)

Worked with high school aged students on the autism spectrum, teaching them life and social goals for life after high school. Assessed students' learning through discussions, projects, and formal assessments, and used pre-written curriculum to teach various subjects via remote video conferencing.

Youth Development Autism Assessments

Lafayette Parish Renewal Program

Lafayette City Court

Feb 2021 - Present (4 years 7 months)

Developed and implemented a Renewal Program for first-time teen offenders in Lafayette Parish. Instructed and instilled interpersonal skills into the youth participating in the program, and designed and directed PowerPoint presentations for bi-weekly classes.

Program Development Public Speaking Curriculum Design Conflict Resolution

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Coffeyville Community College

Associate of Science, General Studies

Completed an Associate of Science degree, gaining foundational knowledge in various academic disciplines. This program prepared for further higher education.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Bachelor of Arts, General Studies

Earned a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies, focusing on a broad range of subjects to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. This comprehensive program provided a strong academic foundation.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Master of Science, Criminal Justice

Activities and societies: Lesson planned and taught a 3-hour Graduate School class on Criminal Justice Theories.

Completed a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, deepening understanding of the criminal justice system and related theories. This advanced degree equipped with specialized knowledge in the field.