Tamara Anderson

I am a dedicated and experienced paraprofessional with a strong background in elementary education and a passion for fostering student growth. During my time in the Learning Assistance Program (LAP), I provide differentiated academic support, administer assessments, use data to drive curriculum instruction, and facilitate positive social and emotional learning. These skills help address diverse student needs and foster holistic development.

With a strong foundation in family studies and child development, coupled with practical experience in educational settings, I am well-prepared to effectively support student success. CPR/First Aid Certified.

Paraprofessional | LAP Paraeducator, Behavior Specialist, and SCALs Paraeducator - North Thurston Public Schools - Lakes Elementary School - Lacey, WA

(2019-06)

• Provide targeted intervention support in reading and math through the Learning Assistance Program (LAP), including Amplify ECRI, Amplify Boost, Amplify mClass, Reach into Phonics, Reach-4-Reading, Bridges Math, Lexia, IXL, and Read Live, administering assessments to identify student needs and making necessary accommodations per Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Conducted weekly social, emotional, and behavioral skill development groups, reinforcing positive behaviors and social skills through modeling and specialized teaching techniques.
• Collaborated with the administration leadership team to enhance discipline practices and applied proactive behavior management strategies to support a positive classroom environment. Managed the distribution of FORKids food bags to address food insecurity among students.
• Supported the Social Communication and Learning Support (SCALS) program through curriculum implementation and student interactions.
• Prepared instructional materials, maintained classroom cleanliness, and assisted a medically fragile student with their educational needs, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
• Ensured student safety on the playground and implemented positive behavior strategies and restorative practices. Collaborated with staff, and managed volunteers from Komachin Middle School during their school service projects held at Lakes Elementary.

Student Teaching - North Thurston Public Schools - Horizons Elementary School - Lacey, WA

(2024-09-03 - 2024-11-24)

Host Teacher - Alicia Gittins - 5th Grade

• Building strong student relationships
• Planning, writing, and teaching lesson plans differentiated for various student needs, and analyzing data to modify instruction as needed.
• Using Second Step Math Curriculum, Stepping Stones, Reach for Reading curriculum
• Utilize effective classroom management techniques.

Preclinical Experience - North Thurston Public Schools - Mt. View Elementary School - Lacey, WA

(2024-01)

Host Teacher - Tina Ellis - Highly Supported Kindergarten

• Observed instruction, led small groups, planned and taught lesson plans, built trusting relationships with students, and implemented effective classroom management strategies.

Masters in Teaching - Elementary Education - Western Governors University (2024-12-10)

Bachelors of Science - Marriage and Family Studies - Brigham Young University Idaho (2020-07)