Tanja Leonard
OBJECTIVE
Seeking a position as an Elementary Education teacher in order to create a diverse learning environment where students of all abilities and cultures grow academically and personally.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education, May 2011
Indiana University 30 credit hours August 2006-May 2007
Seeking Illinois Type 03 Certification
ESL Endorsement
Magna Cum Laude Honors
Dean’s List (from College of Education), 2008-2011
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Student Teacher (4th grade), South Loop Elementary School September 2010-April 2011
• Developed and implemented curriculum and Interdisciplinary Thematic unit to meet academic, intellectual, and social needs of students
• Created Classroom Management Plan through Character Building
• Assessed student learning through: anecdotal notes, student-teacher conferences, peer-evaluations, checklist, student portfolios
• Designed cooperative learning activities and hands on activities across the curriculum
• Promoted the use of centers and partnering to emphasize a collaborative learning environment
• Performed Differentiated instruction for gifted students and students with IEP’s
Teacher Aide, Mid Valley Special Education Cooperative June 2009-Present (summers only)
• Administered Discrete Trials to students with Autism and Down Syndrome ages 5-10
• Assisted children in sensory activities, lunch time, bathroom time, and Adaptive P.E
Practicum Experience (1st grade ESL), Perez Elementary School October 2009-April 2010
• Worked with students in small groups for extra practice on concepts being learned
• Created and implemented science inquiry lessons on states of matter
• Conducted read alouds to teach text-to-self connections
Field Observer (Preschool, 2nd grade ESL & 5th grade ESL) January 2007- March 2008
Galileo Science and Math Academy
• Actively observed, monitored, and analyzed student learning environment
• Facilitated ISAT test taking skills for reading passages
• Taught the concept of print and fluency using a language experience approach to ESL students
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Receptionist, State Street Dance Studio June 2009-Present
• Manage customer relations; assist in recruiting and register customers for dance classes
• Orchestrate studios’ special events as backstage assistant during recitals
• Complete administrative tasks; balance cash drawer, answer phone calls, open and close studio
ACTIVITIES
• UIC Dancing Flames Member, UIC, 2007-2008
• UIC Community Literacy Event: The Fairy Tale Festival, Book Mark Center Leader, March 2008
• Red Steppers Dance Team Member, Indiana University, 2006-2007
SKILLS
Language: Fluent in oral speaking of German, literate in writing and reading.
Computer: Frequent usage with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and usage with an ELMO. Familiar with Adobe Acrobat, Smart board, and voice thread.
