Teaching has long been my calling – a passion and ambition to which I’ve aspired from a young age. It involves the ability to connect with children and a desire to make a difference in their young lives – to aid their development, help them build confidence, and guide them to become competent learners and thinkers. It is also something at which I am good. As a young adult, I worked in the banking industry, focusing on corporate training/development and community reinvestment. But, a calling is often something for which you have to hear and listen – “it’s who you are and what you have inside of you…” (Caprino, 2016). So, I decided to become an early childhood educator. I have since coached students with diverse needs in a variety of settings: private/public schools/community service organizations/, and in urban/suburban/rural areas. Highlights:*Improved learning in Math by 73%, using manipulatives *Enhanced early literacy skills by 86%, using thematic units, letter and sound awareness , bookmaking, art, music and repetition. *Increased ESL engagement, incorporating their culture and native language into activities*Elevated social, emotional, self-regulatory skills by 46%, via positive supports*Boosted critical thinking skills by 118%, using science integration, and open-ended questions*Decreased absenteeism for two students by 35%, by collaborating with parents *Guided students in meeting developmental milestones in all five domainsAreas of Expertise:Early Childhood Intervention | Phonemic Instruction | Multi-sensory lessons | Scaffolding | Cooperative Learning | Differentiated Instruction | Technology | Classroom Management | Assessment | Curriculum DevelopmentI welcome your contact! : 304-651-9156 or spina.d@yahoo.mail Ref: Caprino, K. (2016). Which Will Make You Happiest -- A Job Or A Calling? Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathycaprino/2016/05/20/which-will-make-you-happiest-a-job-or-a-calling/2/#35890b173f8b