Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
sewing, cooking, swimming, gardening, painting and many crafts
Timeline
Generic

MaryAlexa Norris

Teacher, School Counselor, Special Education/Autism, Dental Hygienist, Principal
Sosua,Puerto Plata Dominican Republic

Summary

Dynamic educator with a proven track record in the in the Dominican Republic

, excelling in curriculum design and differentiated instruction. Recognized for enhancing student engagement and critical thinking through innovative teaching strategies. Committed to fostering inclusive learning environments and mentoring peers to elevate educational outcomes.

Passionate Teacher provides students with exceptional learning opportunities and support of educational endeavors. Skilled implementer of diverse instruction methods for cultivating fruitful learning environment for all. Positively motivates students with individual guidance and empathetic mentorship.

Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.

To seek and maintain full-time position that offers professional challenges utilizing interpersonal skills, excellent time management and problem-solving skills.

Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education

Work History

High School ELA/Literature Teacher

International School of Sosua
Sosua, Dominican Republic
08.2024 - Current
  • Created an inclusive classroom environment that fostered respect, empathy, and cultural awareness among students.
  • Provided individualized support and feedback, improving students'' critical thinking and analytical skills.
  • Mentored new teachers in effective instructional strategies, fostering a supportive professional community within the department.
  • Assisted in curriculum design efforts, ensuring alignment with state standards while allowing flexibility for teacher creativity in lesson planning.
  • Evaluated student work using rubrics to provide clear expectations for success and constructive feedback on areas needing improvement.
  • Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating diverse teaching methods and strategies.
  • Implemented project-based learning activities to connect literature concepts with real-world applications, enhancing student engagement.
  • Encouraged students to take active role in learning and academic success.
  • Monitored student progress and provided feedback to both students and parents.
  • Supported students in development of skills and strategies to become independent and successful learners.
  • Produced engaging lesson plans and activities to help students master learning objectives.
  • Promoted culture of inclusion, respect and collaboration in classroom.
  • Created and maintained safe and orderly classroom environment conducive to learning.
  • Assessed and evaluated student performance through use of standardized testing.
  • Established and maintained professional relationships with students, staff, parents and community members.
  • Built variety of formative and summative assessments to measure student progress.
  • Developed and implemented variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse needs of students.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans to address student issues.
  • Supported development of individualized education plans for students with special needs.
  • Utilized data to inform instructional decisions and personalize learning.
  • Assisted in development of college and career readiness programs.

Teacher Geography and History

Jarabacoa Christian School
Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic
08.2023 - 08.2024
  • Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
  • Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child''s educational journey.
  • Identified struggling students early on and provided additional support through tutoring sessions and modified lesson plans.
  • Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
  • Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
  • Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum.
  • Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences to stay current in educational trends.
  • Spearheaded mentorship program for at-risk students, contributing to improved academic and behavioral outcomes.
  • Enhanced students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills through project-based learning.
  • Fostered positive learning environment that encouraged student curiosity and critical thinking.
  • Pioneered sustainability project that educated students on environmental issues and solutions.
  • Enhanced literacy skills with targeted reading programs.
  • Designed curriculum materials for special education students, facilitating inclusive learning.
  • Coordinated with language specialists to support English Language Learners, fostering more inclusive classroom.
  • Organized and led educational field trips that complemented classroom learning, broadening students' real-world understanding.
  • Helped students explore concepts with engaging, learning-focused activities.
  • Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
  • Prepared quizzes, tests and examinations to gauge how well students were learning.
  • Shifted between formal and informal methods of teaching to keep students engaged.
  • Completed student progress reports mid-term to notify students and parents of strengths and areas of improvement.
  • Designed detailed learning plans for struggling students based on test, homework and assignment records.
  • Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
  • Created lessons and online testing materials to facilitate remote learning.
  • Participated in department meetings to provide input to colleagues about student achievement and improvement.
  • Improved students' analytical skills by introducing state-of-the-art computer program technologies.
  • Boosted cultural awareness by incorporating children's literature from world cultures.
  • Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.

Private Tutor Special Needs

Self Employed Services
Jarabacoa, Provincia de La Vega
07.2022 - 08.2024
  • Empowered students with essential study skills such as note-taking, test preparation strategies, and effective research methods.
  • Adapted tutoring approach based on each student''s progress, ensuring continuous growth in knowledge and skills.
  • Implemented creative teaching techniques that made complex concepts more accessible for better retention of information.
  • Provided targeted support in specific subject areas where students struggled the most, enhancing overall academic success.
  • Utilized various teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring optimal understanding of material.
  • Developed individualized lesson plans tailored to each student''s unique learning needs and goals.
  • Supported students with helpful study habits and exam strategies.
  • Tracked learning progress to optimize tutoring methods and help students achieve goals.
  • Collaborated with parents to discuss student progress, addressing any concerns or areas requiring additional support.
  • Assisted students with time management strategies, improving their ability to complete assignments efficiently.
  • Collaborated with parents to develop appropriate tutoring lessons.
  • Built strong rapport with students through active listening, empathy, and genuine interest in their success.
  • Monitored student performance through regular assessments, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Met with parents to discuss student progress and address concerns.
  • Used positive reinforcement, repetition, and review to help students master challenging material.
  • Reviewed materials for student classes to enhance learning and used unique ways to reinforce program materials.
  • Tutored diverse groups of students to strengthen subject comprehension, boost confidence, and build important learning skills.
  • Collaborated with students to complete homework assignments, identify lagging skills, and correct weaknesses.
  • Monitored student progress closely and used software resources to organize milestones and compile reports.
  • Developed student confidence through positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Generated handouts and learning materials to enhance education.
  • Bolstered student confidence by providing constructive feedback and celebrating academic achievements.
  • Stayed updated on curriculum changes and academic standards to continuously deliver high-quality tutoring services in line with current requirements.
  • Cultivated a supportive learning environment, fostering open communication between students and tutor.
  • Enabled underachieving students to reach target attainment levels by providing individualized coaching and activities.
  • Used tutoring software resources for different individuals with unique learning styles.
  • Arranged tutoring environment to support optimal learning.
  • Strengthened students'' critical thinking abilities by developing problem-solving exercises and activities.
  • Incorporated visual aids, mnemonic devices, and interactive activities into lessons to enhance engagement levels during tutoring sessions.
  • Provided homework assistance using specific curriculum and materials.
  • Motivated students towards learning and studying to build self-confidence and reduce fear of failure.
  • Assisted students in developing study skills and strategies.
  • Monitored student progress and provided feedback and support.
  • Developed methods to motivate and engage students in learning.
  • Conducted review sessions to help students prepare for tests.
  • Used variety of teaching methods to successfully help wide range of students.
  • Assessed student learning needs and provided relevant instruction to close knowledge gaps.
  • Created personalized lesson plans to meet needs of diverse learners.
  • Supported students in development of critical thinking skills and perseverance to persist with challenging tasks.
  • Facilitated small group and one-on-one tutoring sessions focusing on academic subject areas.
  • Issued reports updating students, parents and teachers on student progress.
  • Traveled15 miles to various locations to provide tutoring sessions to students in need.

PRIVATE TEACHER BARRICK MINES

BARRICK MINES
Cotui
01.2022 - 03.2022

I was asked to be the homeschool teacher for the new Australian head of Barrick Mines children with autism. THe position did not last very long as the family was in crisis and the mother left with the children to return to Australia. It was a difficult move for the children to be living secluded on the mine.

  • Developed strong rapport with students, fostering a positive learning environment where all individuals felt supported and valued.
  • Boosted academic achievement by providing one-on-one tutoring and support for struggling students.
  • Improved student comprehension by utilizing various teaching methods and adapting instructional materials to address diverse learning styles.
  • Promoted critical thinking skills in students through regular practice of problem-solving exercises and analytical discussions during class time.
  • Organized extracurricular activities such as field trips or guest speakers that supplemented coursework while providing unique learning opportunities outside the traditional classroom setting.
  • Contributed to curriculum development efforts by sharing innovative teaching strategies and collaborating with colleagues on best practices.

Principal

Holy Trinity
Santiago De Los Caballeros, Provincia de Santiago
08.2021 - 01.2022
  • Collaborated with the Parent-Teacher Association to address parent concerns and foster a supportive community for student success.
  • Performed classroom evaluations to assess teacher strategies and effectiveness.
  • Implemented innovative approaches to teaching and learning that improved student engagement and achievement levels.
  • Led school improvement efforts by setting clear expectations for staff performance and providing regular feedback on progress towards goals.
  • Increased teacher effectiveness through comprehensive coaching, professional development opportunities, and mentorship programs.
  • Mentored newly hired educators and provided encouragement and feedback.
  • Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
  • Streamlined school operations by evaluating processes and procedures, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending improvements.
  • Developed strong relationships with stakeholders to foster trust, collaboration, and commitment to shared goals.
  • Supervised afterschool program to promote student growth and maintain safety for all attendees.
  • Cultivated positive relationships between community members, school students, and teachers.
  • Monitored student behavior and enforced discipline policies.
  • Fostered a positive learning environment by promoting open communication among staff, students, and parents.
  • Championed technology integration in classrooms to increase efficiency in lesson delivery while also preparing students for the digital age.
  • Evaluated curriculum materials for alignment with state standards, ensuring consistency across grade levels and subject areas.
  • Addressed discipline issues promptly while maintaining fairness; sustaining positive relationships among faculty members.
  • Managed budgets and resources efficiently to ensure optimal allocation of funds for school programs and initiatives.
  • Improved student outcomes by analyzing data and adjusting instructional practices accordingly.
  • Oversaw schedule management and protocols for orientation, registration, and related activities.
  • Administered personnel policies and procedures and approved professional staff additions.
  • Mentored new teachers during their induction period resulting in higher retention rates of quality educators.
  • Oversaw the development of extracurricular programs that enhanced student life beyond the classroom setting.
  • Promoted diversity within the school community through inclusive policies, programming, and recruitment efforts.
  • Researched and incorporated new educational trends and instructional strategies to optimize education effectiveness.
  • Administered personnel policies and procedures for school faculty and staff.
  • Instructed small groups of teachers and students.
  • Developed comprehensive assessment system to measure student progress and inform instructional strategies.
  • Negotiated with vendors to secure resources, enhancing learning environment without significantly increasing costs.
  • Developed partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide real-world learning opportunities for students.
  • Facilitated professional learning communities, encouraging collaboration and shared best practices among faculty.
  • Streamlined administrative processes to improve operational efficiency, utilizing advanced technology solutions.

Teacher School Counselor

Garden Kids International
Sosua, Puerto Plata
08.2014 - 08.2020

Please note that I taught at GKIS, left to go to Holy Trinity and then was welcomed back at GKIS. While at GKIS, the first few years, I taught in the AM and was counselor in the afternoon. One of the years I taught in the AM and then went to Collegio Joven del Mundo as the 7-12th grade English teacher.

  • Mentored new teachers, sharing best practices and providing guidance to help them adapt to their new roles successfully.
  • Organized extracurricular activities such as clubs or field trips that enriched students' learning experiences outside traditional classroom settings.
  • Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate. (Worked on accredidation for Cognia, SACS and what is now CODIGO)
  • Utilized data-driven instruction to tailor lessons for improved academic performance.
  • Designed and implemented differentiated instruction strategy to meet diverse learning needs, enhancing educational outcomes.
  • Developed and executed formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress, adjusting teaching strategies accordingly.
  • Conducted ongoing professional development in educational technology, keeping teaching approach current and effective.
  • Improved student engagement by incorporating interactive learning technologies into lesson plans.
  • Led professional development workshops for peers on effective classroom management techniques.
  • Promoted digital literacy by integrating technology into curriculum.
  • Revamped school's library system, making it more accessible and user-friendly for students and staff.
  • Guided students through college application process, increasing number of students accepted into their first-choice institutions. (taught AP classes for several students)
  • Met with students, parents and administrators to address and resolve students' behavioral and academic issues.
  • Increased parental involvement in students' education by organizing regular communication and events.
  • Worked with staff members and teachers to design comprehensive and individualized plans to optimize student education.
  • Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
  • Fostered student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
  • Implemented reading and writing workshops to increase student literacy and support school reading programs.
  • Promoted mental health awareness among staff members through training programs on topics such as stress management, self-care, and recognizing warning signs in students.
  • Empowered parents/guardians involvement in their children''s education via organizing educational workshops and providing resources on academic, career, and personal/social development.
  • Implemented data-driven strategies to identify areas of need within the school population, leading to targeted interventions and support services.
  • Identified and addressed concerns of incoming students and parents. (I did all the pre entrance psychological testing for new students)
  • Developed and implemented individualized behavior plans to assist students with achieving academic and behavioral goals.
  • Regularly met with enrolled students to confirm success and identify problem areas.
  • Improved graduation rates by implementing targeted interventions for at-risk students.
  • Partnered with parents and guardians to promote student success in school environment.
  • Improved student resilience by designing and facilitating group counseling sessions focused on stress management.
  • Promoted culture of continuous improvement by leading professional development sessions for faculty on counseling techniques and student support services.
  • Increased awareness of post-secondary options by organizing college and career readiness workshops and events.
  • Facilitated smooth transitions for new students by developing orientation programs and ongoing support mechanisms.
  • Advocated for student needs, resulting in adaptation of school policies to better support student well-being.
  • Reduced incidents of bullying through proactive conflict resolution training and mediation services.
  • Increased awareness of diversity and inclusion issues among student body by implementing targeted educational programs.
  • Advised students on educational, career and social opportunities.
  • Provided resources to support students in achieving career goals.
  • Developed and implemented individualized academic plans for students.
  • Helped students develop organizational, time management and study skills.
  • Used standardized assessments to evaluate abilities, interests and characteristics of different students.
  • Advocated for students to access available resources.
  • Monitored student progress to drive successful academic outcomes.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations, modeling appropriate conduct, and consistently enforcing established rules and consequences.
  • Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
  • Spearheaded mentorship program for at-risk students, contributing to improved academic and behavioral outcomes.
  • Enhanced students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills through project-based learning.
  • Shifted between formal and informal methods of teaching to keep students engaged.
  • Prepared quizzes, tests and examinations to gauge how well students were learning.
  • Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
  • Completed student progress reports mid-term to notify students and parents of strengths and areas of improvement.
  • Designed detailed learning plans for struggling students based on test, homework and assignment records.
  • Created lessons and online testing materials to facilitate remote learning.
  • Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
  • Improved students' analytical skills by introducing state-of-the-art computer program technologies.
  • Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.

Teacher for Special Needs

International School of Sosua
Sosua, Puerto Plata
10.2012 - 08.2013

I was hired as a SCRIBE for a 2nd grade child with autism and work with the 2nd grade teacher for pull in an pull out for this student

I also came back the next year as a SCRIBE for an autistic 6th grader who was extremely intelligent however lacked note taking and writing skills. His family moved back to Canada part way through the school year for his fathers work.

  • Served on school committees focused on curriculum development, teacher evaluations, or community outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate.
  • Guided students through college application process, increasing number of students accepted into their first-choice institutions.
  • Implemented classroom management plan that reduced disruptions, creating more conducive learning environment.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to integrate cross-disciplinary lessons, enriching students' educational experience.
  • Communicated frequently with parents, students, and faculty to provide feedback and discuss instructional strategies.
  • Evaluated students' understanding of course material through examinations and in-depth essay writing.
  • Scheduled conferences with parents to discuss students' progress and classroom behavior.
  • Increased educational expertise and knowledge by participating in instructor-oriented workshops.
  • Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
  • Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child''s educational journey.
  • Identified struggling students early on and provided additional support through tutoring sessions and modified lesson plans.
  • Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
  • Integrated cultural awareness into lessons by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into the curriculum.
  • Fostered positive learning environment that encouraged student curiosity and critical thinking.
  • Pioneered sustainability project that educated students on environmental issues and solutions.
  • Coordinated with language specialists to support English Language Learners, fostering more inclusive classroom.
  • Organized and led educational field trips that complemented classroom learning, broadening students' real-world understanding.
  • Participated in department meetings to provide input to colleagues about student achievement and improvement.
  • Boosted cultural awareness by incorporating children's literature from world cultures.
  • Utilized data-driven instruction to tailor lessons for improved academic performance.
  • Conducted ongoing professional development in educational technology, keeping teaching approach current and effective.

Education

MBA - Special Education Children On The Autism Spectrum

University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
01.2007 - 08.2009

MBA - Education

Wayne State University
Detroit, Michigan
06.1985 - 06.1989

Skills

Curriculum design

Classroom management

Student assessment

Instructional strategies

Differentiated instruction

Behavior management

Critical thinking

Digital literacy

sewing, cooking, swimming, gardening, painting and many crafts

My passion is not only teaching but to teaching to each childs needs.  I have found that my love of sewing and crafting using household items has helped greatly with my special education students.  Living on an island, I truly believe, that each child should explore the wonders of the eco systems here.  I taught an infant to toddler swimming class many, many years ago and would love to see that being taught here in the DR along with what the flag warnings and water warnings are for no swimming.

Timeline

High School ELA/Literature Teacher

International School of Sosua
08.2024 - Current

Teacher Geography and History

Jarabacoa Christian School
08.2023 - 08.2024

Private Tutor Special Needs

Self Employed Services
07.2022 - 08.2024

PRIVATE TEACHER BARRICK MINES

BARRICK MINES
01.2022 - 03.2022

Principal

Holy Trinity
08.2021 - 01.2022

Teacher School Counselor

Garden Kids International
08.2014 - 08.2020

Teacher for Special Needs

International School of Sosua
10.2012 - 08.2013

MBA - Special Education Children On The Autism Spectrum

University of Michigan
01.2007 - 08.2009

MBA - Education

Wayne State University
06.1985 - 06.1989
MaryAlexa NorrisTeacher, School Counselor, Special Education/Autism, Dental Hygienist, Principal