Paulina Bonilla

Adaptable educator with experience in student teaching and childcare settings serving students from early childhood through upper elementary. Skilled in standards-aligned instruction, differentiation, data-driven interventions, and fostering inclusive, student-centered learning environments. Strong collaborator with experience supporting diverse learners and working closely with mentor teachers, colleagues, and families.

5th Grade Student Teacher at John C. Mack Elementary School (2025-01 – 2025-05)

• Planned and taught a multi-day, standards-based language arts unit integrating educational technology and inquiry-based, student-centered activities that improved engagement.
• Co-taught with mentor teacher and independently managed classroom instruction for three consecutive weeks, maintaining student engagement and a positive learning environment.
• Designed and implemented a differentiated, data-driven intervention, increasing a student's task initiation within 2 minutes from 20% to 83%.

Kindergarten Student Teacher at Vermont Avenue Elementary School (2024-08 – 2024-12)

• Implemented a differentiated, data-driven intervention improving fine motor skills and correct pencil grip from 40% to 75%, supporting handwriting fluency.
• Provided small group literacy instruction using differentiated strategies, enabling three students to master alphabet recognition by semester's end.
• Designed and taught a hands-on, inquiry-based science lesson that increased student engagement and curiosity through guided exploration.

Assistant Substitute Teacher at ChildCare Careers (2023-11 – 2024-05)

• Adapted to classrooms for children ages 8 months - 6 years using collaborative teaching and effective classroom management to foster inclusive, positive learning environments.
• Supported lead teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities for up to 20 children, fostering curiosity, motor development, and social-emotional growth.

Volunteer Tutor at SmashHigh (2021-02 – 2021-06)

• Provided individualized homework support in math, science, and social studies for two 5th grade students, using differentiated strategies to reinforce classroom learning.
• Communicated with parents via email as needed, providing updates and technical assistance to maintain consistent engagement and communication.

Volunteer Transitional Kindergarten Teaching Assistant at Barron Park Elementary School (2019-08 – 2020-06)

• Assisted in planning and implementing standards-based lessons aligned with state early learning standards, supporting curriculum development and instruction.
• Set up and facilitated learning centers with developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities that supported engagement, exploration, and a positive learning environment.

MA in Elementary Education + Gifted Education – University of Southern California (2024-06 – 2025-08)

BA in Integrated Educational Studies with Honors & BA, Psychology – Chapman University (2021-08 – 2024-05)

Child Development Pathway – Foothill College (2019-08 – 2021-06)