Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Leadership And Involvement
Licensing And Certifications
Timeline
Generic

Ricarla Shotwell

Apple Valley

Summary

Dedicated and passionate early childhood educator with a strong commitment to fostering a safe, nurturing, and stimulating learning environment. Skilled in creating engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans that inspire curiosity and a love for learning.ing. Adept at implementing diverse curricula, differentiating instruction, and utilizing innovative teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of each learner. Experienced in managing classroom behavior effectively, integrating social-emotional learning, and promoting a culturally responsive environment. Strong ability to collaborate with families, staff, and administration to support student growth and academic success. A dynamic and adaptable team player with a growth mindset, eager to contribute expertise to an educational setting that prioritizes inclusivity, creativity, and high-quality early childhood education. Enthusiastic professional committed to fostering students' academic, social and emotional growth. Experienced teaching several and several grades with differentiated instruction. Exceptional communication skills with parents, administrators and other educators.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience

Work History

3rd Grade Teacher

Excell Academy
Brooklyn Park
08.2023 - Current
  • Crafted lesson plans based on curriculum standards to enhance student participation.
  • Monitored educational progress and tailored instructional strategies to address distinct needs.
  • Created a supportive classroom atmosphere to foster academic and social development.
  • Engaged in regular discussions with parents and guardians regarding student achievements.

2nd Grade Teacher

Hennepin Schools
  • Created engaging lesson plans to meet academic goals and accommodate diverse learning styles
  • Provided individualized support and interventions for students needing additional assistance
  • Encouraged a collaborative and respectful classroom culture through positive behavior management techniques
  • Maintained accurate records of student performance and progress

In-House Substitute Teacher

Excell Academy
  • Provided classroom coverage across multiple grade levels, ensuring seamless instruction and student engagement
  • Adapted to different classroom settings, maintaining continuity in lesson delivery and behavior management
  • Supported students with individualized instruction and facilitated smooth classroom transitions

Teacher

West Side Head Start
  • Developed and implemented age-appropriate lesson plans to foster student engagement and academic growth
  • Created interactive and hands-on learning activities tailored to meet the diverse needs of young learners
  • Established a nurturing and structured classroom environment to support both academic and social development
  • Assessed student progress and adapted instructional methods to accommodate individual learning needs
  • Maintained comprehensive records of student performance and communicated progress with families

Aftercare Teacher

Kaleidoscope of Learning
  • Ensured a safe and welcoming play environment for infants and toddlers
  • Interacted with children in structured and free play settings, supporting their cognitive and social development
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment to maintain hygiene standards
  • Read to children and engaged them in educational activities to support literacy skills

Research Student (Childcare)

Alcorn State University
  • Maintained a safe and nurturing environment for young children
  • Assisted with diapering, laundry, and cleaning to ensure a hygienic space
  • Observed and documented children’s daily activities and developmental milestones
  • Engaged children in physical fitness activities and interactive play
  • Attended weekly and monthly meetings to discuss child development strategies

Education

B.A. - Early Childhood Development

Alcorn State University

Associate of Arts - General Studies

Copiah-Lincoln Community College

Master of Arts - Elementary Education

Natchez High School

Skills

  • Active listening & communication skills
  • Classroom & behavior management
  • Lesson planning & curriculum implementation
  • Understanding of health & safety protocols
  • Time management & multitasking
  • Engaging and interactive storytelling
  • Play-based learning strategies
  • Creative arts & hands-on activities
  • Adaptability in diverse learning environments
  • Culturally responsive teaching practices
  • Social-emotional learning integration
  • Technology integration in instruction
  • Conflict resolution & de-escalation strategies
  • Collaboration with families & stakeholders
  • Differentiated instruction for diverse learners
  • Data-driven assessment & progress monitoring
  • Strong problem-solving & decision-making skills
  • Classroom leadership & student advocacy
  • Encouraging critical thinking & inquiry-based learning

References

Available upon request.

Leadership And Involvement

Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society, Secretary

Licensing And Certifications

  • CPR Certified
  • Health & Safety Training
  • Tier 3

Timeline

3rd Grade Teacher

Excell Academy
08.2023 - Current

2nd Grade Teacher

Hennepin Schools

In-House Substitute Teacher

Excell Academy

Teacher

West Side Head Start

Aftercare Teacher

Kaleidoscope of Learning

Research Student (Childcare)

Alcorn State University

B.A. - Early Childhood Development

Alcorn State University

Associate of Arts - General Studies

Copiah-Lincoln Community College

Master of Arts - Elementary Education

Natchez High School
Ricarla Shotwell