Deborah Castro

Experience

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  Volunteers of America

  Jul 2008 - Jun 2011

  English Teacher

  ∙ Created and implemented 9-12 grade lessons, activities, and games on English literature, grammar, and composition for a diverse student population in north Orange County ∙ Taught studying and test-taking strategies

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  California State University, Long Beach

  Jan 2011 - Dec 2011

  Spanish Instructor

  ∙ Made and carried out introductory Spanish lessons, activities, games, quizzes, and exams

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  Sogang University

  May 2013 - Jun 2014

  ∙ Trained new teachers on K-8 ESL/English literature curriculum and school policies∙ Checked and edited teachers’ monthly lesson plans∙ Advised teachers on classroom management, individual time management, and teaching methods∙ Met regularly with supervisor and teachers to discuss and solve any problems that arose with a given class∙ Developed additional activities and games for teachers to use in classrooms∙ Created lesson plan templates ∙ Implemented K-8 lessons, activities, and games on English literature, grammar, and composition

  • Head Teacher

    Feb 2014 - Jun 2014

  • ESL/English Literature Teacher

    May 2013 - Jun 2014
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  Bullis Charter School

  Aug 2015 - Jul 2016

  Spanish Teacher

  ∙ Created and implemented Spanish lessons, activities, games, quizzes and exams for grades 6-8∙ Used collaborative and communicative methodologies in the classroom∙ Regularly encouraged empathetic reflection and interpersonal intelligence growth by reviewing character pillars and leading classroom meditation sessions∙ Managed classrooms of as many as 30 students positively by regularly having them participate in team building activities and game-based learning

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  Magnolia Public Schools (MPS)

  Aug 2016 - Dec 2016

  Spanish Teacher

  • Effectively managed classrooms of up to 30 students through regular participation in team-building activities and the integration of game-based learning• Trained and mentored newcomers and effectively ensured their smooth transition by guiding and training them in their onboarding, curriculum development, and learner success strategy and measurement.• Created formative and summative assessments using state standards, designated curriculum, and learner performance data to identify mastery and needs to increase learning outcomes.• Undertook the initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, adjustment, and closure of projects, educational programs, lessons, and school-wide activities in adherence to industry best practices.• Established clear lines of communication with over 30+ stakeholders, colleagues, and parents by maintaining regular contact, engaging in active listening, seeking, and implementing feedback, and managing expectations over email, phone, and LMS.• Conducted weekly progress monitoring assessments for 20+ students, analyzing data and adjusting interventions, accordingly, leading to a 25% increase in overall student achievement.• Regularly coordinated with Subject Matter Experts (SME) to assess and update training materials, ensuring that they align with organizational goals and meet learners' needs.• Handled and resolved complaints and conflicts, utilizing excellent problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills to de-escalate situations and ensure satisfaction.• Efficiently handled paperwork, scheduled, and conducted eligibility meetings in accordance with district and state guidelines. Show less

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  Autism Spectrum Interventions

  Nov 2018 - Mar 2020

  Program Manager and Parent Trainer

  • Trained and oversaw a diverse team of 15+ therapists, parents, and teachers, ensuring the implementation of ABA techniques and data-driven progress analysis. Maintained regular communication with BCBAs to provide updates on progress• Analyzed collected data on teacher, parent, and student progress, and made necessary adjustments to programming goals• Created and delivered presentations on new technologies and communicated changes in reporting and documentation practices• Conducted training programs for parents and staff members to enhance skill transfer and maximize treatment effectiveness.• Developed resources to support therapists, parents, and teachers in fostering the client's social and daily living skills• Authored comprehensive functional behavior assessments and progress reports evaluating the achievement of goals by clients, parents, and teachers Show less

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  Aspire Public Schools

  Aug 2020 - Dec 2021

  Spanish Teacher

  • Utilized excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with students, parents, and colleagues daily• Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills by identifying and addressing student learning gaps to ensure academic success• Built and maintained positive relationships with students and parents, resulting in a high level of trust and satisfaction• Led extracurricular activities, including events and community service projects, to promote student engagement and success• Analyzed data to evaluate student progress and adjust teaching strategies as necessary to maximize student learning outcomes• Conducted regular performance evaluations and assessments and provided feedback to students to encourage growth and development. Show less

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  Paramount Unified School District

  Aug 2023 - Mar 2024

  Spanish Teacher

  • Developed learning goals for diverse populations, incorporating technology and interactive learning strategies to enhance achievement for over 200 learners annually• Integrated digital solutions using various LMS and eLearning tools to provide learners with an engaging learning curriculum experience• Created an inclusive classroom with a focus on the needs of general education learners, special needs learners, and English language learners• Tracked, monitored, and evaluated learner performance data and tailored a lesson plan to individual strengths and weaknesses to improve academic performance; resulting in a 92% learner passing rate• Facilitate professional development sessions focused on instructional best practices, differentiated instruction, assessment strategies, and data-driven decision-making• Created and maintained accurate and organized learner records, including grades, attendance, and progress reports, using technology to ensure timely and accurate communication with colleagues and stakeholders Show less