FIONA M.

CONNAGHAN
8930 Meade Avenue - Oak Lawn, IL 60453 Mobile: (630)747-4238 fconnaghan@gmail.com _____________________________________________________________________________________________
OBJECTIVE: EDUCATION: To secure a teaching position as a 6 -8 grade math educator. National Louis University, Chicago, IL Master of Education, June 2013 Major: Urban Education Cumulative GPA to date: 4.00/4.00 Saint Xavier University, Chicago, IL Bachelor of Science, May 2011 Major: Elementary Education Cumulative GPA to date: 3.92/4.00 (Summa Cum Laude) CERTIFICATION: Illinois Type 03 Initial Teaching Certificate Illinois Middle Level Math Endorsement Special Education (LBS1) (anticipated: June 2013) Member of National Society of Collegiate Scholars Campus Ministry: Chapel Choir, Eucharistic Minister and Lector, Participant in 3 Spring Break Service Trips 2011 Recipient of Saint Xaviers Merwick Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award Deans List of Honor Students: 6 semesters Recipient of Illinois PTA Lillian E. Glover Scholarship Award Morton School of Excellence Chicago, IL AUSL Resident Teacher (August 2012-Present) th th th Designed and taught middle school math lessons at the 6 , 7 and 8 grade levels. Was observed and coached by experienced veteran teachers on a daily basis in the areas of classroom and behavior management, lesson implementation, and teaching strategies in the realm of math education. Adopted and practiced Doug Lemovs champion teacher techniques with the intention of improving my performance in all four of Danielsons domains. Created and implemented math stations and lessons designed to challenge students in the development of their critical thinking and problem solving skills. Gained experience in the utilization of classroom data to plan future lessons and assist in the grouping of students. Assisted in the proctoring and administration of NWEA and ISAT testing. Attended a variety of Professional Development meetings which enhanced my understanding of the most effective ways of educating students in mathematics.
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HONORS & ACTIVITIES:

TEACHING EXPERIENCE:

Concord Elementary Darien, IL Full-Time Teacher Assistant (Aug. 2011-June 2012) Assisted two primary special needs students. Worked one-on-one with these students in assisting in their comprehension and mastery of new skills. Attended all inclusion meetings for two IEP students. Worked with team on devising new strategies, techniques and support systems to help students succeed in classroom. Helped implement the new strategies devised in inclusion meetings. Assisted classroom teachers with different classroom procedures (eg. Morning work, short lessons, spelling tests etc.). Offered additional support by working with small groups of students who may be struggling with Attended all teacher in-service days, training and workshops required by school.

Hannum Elementary School Oak Lawn, IL Student Teacher (Jan. 2011-May 2011) Developed and implemented interactive and student-centered lessons for a diverse second grade class. Differentiated instruction and modified lessons in all subject areas in order to meet individual needs (4 ESL students, 2 students on IEP). Administered Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA2) for winter benchmark testing to second grade class. Planned and presented intervention reading lessons for tier 1, 2 and 3 groups. Designed and taught in-depth units in Math, Science and Social Studies. Implemented classroom management skills using positive reinforcement (PBIS). Utilized Smartboard and other technology in classroom to enhance student learning experience and understanding. Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Chicago, IL Method Experience (Jan. 2010-May 2010) th Developed interactive and hands-on Math lessons for 8 grade classroom learning data analysis. Devised projects for small group collaboration and investigative activities to enhance student learning and understanding. Our Lady of the Snow Chicago, IL Method Experience (Sept. 2010-Dec. 2010) Tutored fourth grade student in Reading once a week. Observed an increase in students reading comprehension, automaticity (WCPM), and fluency. Used 3-Minute Reading Assessment and The Basic Reading Inventory as diagnostic tests before designing instruction for student (Pre- and Post-Tests used to evaluate student growth)

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE:

Buschbach Insurance Agency Oak Lawn, IL (Aug. 2005-July 2012) Trained all employees on how to use new computer system during transition period. Developed computer, collaboration and communication skills in a professional environment. Assisted in billing and processing, and worked as an underwriter in auto department.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

Moraine Valleys Literacy Program (Sept. 2011-May 2012) State funded program where tutors are assigned an adult ESL, Literacy or GED student who must be tutored two hours a week for a minimum commitment of one year. Completed 12 hours of training for program. Tutored an adult ESL student in the area of reading, writing and spelling over the course of one school year. Assisted student in her mastery of English language rules, writing and spelling.

REFERENCES:

Mentor Teacher Rosalind Ali (773)416-0088 rali1913@gmail.com

Mentor Resident Coach Kai Murray (773) 805-7849 kaimurray.ausl@gmail.com

Supervisor at Buschbach Insurance Joan Buschbach (708)423-2350

Fiona Connaghan 8930 Meade Avenue Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (630) 747-4238 fconnaghan@gmail.com January 14, 2013 AUSL Principal 4100 N. Austin Ave. Chicago, IL 60634

Dear Principal: It is with great interest that I present my resume to you for consideration for a teaching position at an AUSL school. As a recent graduate of Saint Xavier University, and a current graduate student at National Louis University, I understand the need to provide a positive and safe learning environment to help students soar and succeed. Having completed numerous clinicals in a multitude of settings, and having completed training as an AUSL resident, I have a unique understanding of the different needs students have. I have obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, and have a middle school endorsement in mathematics from Saint Xavier University. I graduated summa cum-laude from Saint Xaviers education program in May of 2011. I am currently in the process of obtaining my Masters of Education in Urban Education at National Louis University. My education and classroom experience has provided me with insights into the world of teaching, and has instilled in me the qualities and skills needed to be an effective and efficient teacher. My yearlong residency at Morton School of Excellence has been an inspiring experience that has prepared me to be an urban school educator. Through my training, I have learned a variety of strategies that will help students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills necessary to help them become lifelong independent learners. My residency has provided me with the opportunity to practice and develop: Classroom management skills, effective transitions, and utilization of incentive programs Differentiated Instruction to accommodate all ability levels Utilization of data to design interactive and exploratory math lessons

As an educator, it is my goal to see all students grow and progress in their studies. It is my desire to provide all students with an excellent education. My yearlong residency at an AUSL training academy has given me the tools and knowledge necessary to make these goals a reality. I have attached my resume and would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss the many ways I can make a significant contribution to your educational program. I look forward to hearing from you and thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Sincerely,

Fiona M. Connaghan