Natalina B.

Focarelli
18 Sunflower Lane, Hamilton, NJ 08620
609-439-9627
focarellin@rider.edu

Objectives
To proactively instruct and enhance the learning of students K-12; To provide a safe, nurturing
environment where students feel their knowledge, opinions, and growth are valued; To leave an
everlasting impression on those around me, by building strong relationships with students,
colleagues, and parents/guardians in the district.

Education
Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ
Pursuing Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and English
Minoring in Elementary Special Education and Middle School Education
Cumulative GPA: 3.525/4.0; Deans List (7 out of 8 semesters)
Centenary College, Hackettstown, NJ
Fall 2012-Spring 2013
Cumulative GPA: 4.0/4.0; Deans List

Pending Certifications
Elementary Teaching Certification
Students with Disabilities Certification
Middle School with Subject Matter Specialization: English Language Arts/Literacy Certification

Honors
Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education at Rider University
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) at Rider University

Professional Experience
Practicum Assignment: Bordentown Regional Middle School, Bordentown, NJ. Spring 2017.
Student Teacher in both a general education classroom and special education classroom
Used Power School to record student progress and stay connected with parents/guardians
and colleagues in the district
Engaged in the Language Arts Professional Learning Community (PLC) with colleagues
Implemented the Read For Real program to engage students in both reading and writing
of non-fiction texts, and bridging the gap between these skills and the real world
Led a Balanced Literacy Program, including both Fiction and Non-fiction texts, as well
as both reading and writing across the core curriculum
Worked with students who have Individual Learning Plans: IEPs, 504 Plans, English-
Language-Learners, and Emergency 504 Plans (specified for children who have
suffered/are suffering from concussions)
Differentiated instruction for students who are both above grade level standards as well
as struggling students who need accommodations and modifications
Promoted a safe environment for students to learn and grow, where kindness comes first.
Practicum Assignment: Indian Fields Elementary School, Dayton, NJ. Spring 2015.
Observed and assisted in a first grade classroom
Developed and implemented Math and English lesson plans using Common Core
Standards
Implemented manipulatives for students to better understand mathematical concepts
Practicum Assignment: Grover Middle School, West Windsor, NJ. Fall 2015.
Observed and assisted in a seventh grade classroom
Developed and implemented English lesson plans using Common Core Standards
Facilitated Morning Meeting daily
Practicum Assignment: Regional Day School, Trenton, NJ. Spring 2014.
Observed and assisted in a Kindergarten through second grade special education class.
Developed and implemented strategies for supporting children with behavioral and
emotional needs using tiered learning activities for students of differing learning levels
Assisted struggling students by implementing individualized plans, based on student-
specified needs
Developed and taught Literacy and Math lesson plans using Common Core Standards
Practicum Assignment: Eldridge Park Elementary School, Lawrence Twp., NJ. Spring 2014.
Observed and assisted in a first grade classroom
Provided extra assistance for struggling students based on individual needs
Practicum Assignment: Millstone River School, Plainsboro Township, NJ. Fall 2014.
Observed and assisted in a fifth grade classroom
Developed and implemented lesson plans and management strategies
Implemented the use of Chrome books and online research
Assistant Teacher: The Goddard School, Hamilton, NJ. Spring 2012 - Spring 2013.
Taught children in classrooms ranging in age from infants to Pre-Kindergarten
Facilitated and monitored childrens work and play time
Developed and taught lesson plans and activities
Developed a relationship with each parent/guardian of every student in my classroom, and
communicated weekly with each students parent/guardian

Service
Zeta Tau Alpha- Zeta Lambda Chapter (Rider University)
Developed leadership skills and actively worked in groups and teams in order to solve a
problem or accomplish a goal.
Attended seminars in collaborative team-building and public speaking.
Special Olympics Volunteer: 2010-Present
Differentiating instruction for children having behavioral/emotional, intellectual/cognitive,
and/or physical disabilities
Planning events for children with disabilities in order to build their confidence and actively
engage them in both group and individual activities.
Creating a safe environment for students to feel comfortable and capable of learning and
growing.
My online portfolio can be accessed through: http://missnatalinafocarelli.weebly.com/