Valerie Valdes

Dedicated Bilingual Educator with 6 years of experience supporting and nurturing children in home and classroom settings. Skilled in lesson support, behavior guidance, and fostering a safe, engaging learning environment. Passionate about early childhood development and helping children reach their full potential.

Bilingual Paraprofessional at Mendota District #289 (2024-08 – Present)

Assist teachers with lessons, classroom activities, and management for preschool and elementary students. Provide one-on-one and small group support for academic and behavioral development. Translate and communicate between English and Spanish for students, parents, and staff.

• Assist teachers with lessons, classroom activities, and management for preschool and elementary students.
• Provide one-on-one and small group support for academic and behavioral development.
• Translate and communicate between English and Spanish for students, parents, and staff.
• Prepare learning materials and support educational activities to enhance student engagement.
• Supervise and guide students during transitions, recess, and classroom routines.

Childcare Provider at Childcare Provider (2020-08 – Present)

Provide attentive care for children from newborn to school age, including feeding, diapering, and sleep routines. Plan and lead age-appropriate learning activities, crafts, and play to encourage development.

• Provide attentive care for children from newborn to school age, including feeding, diapering, and sleep routines.
• Plan and lead age-appropriate learning activities, crafts, and play to encourage development.
• Support social, emotional, and behavioral growth through guidance and positive reinforcement.
• Maintain safe, organized environments and communicate daily updates to parents.
• Assist with home routines including meals, laundry, and transportation to activities.

Librarian Assistant at Graves-Hume Public Library (2022-10 – 2025-07)

Assisted children in finding books and resources suited to their reading level and interests. Organized and maintained library materials to create a welcoming, easy-to-navigate space.

• Assisted children in finding books and resources suited to their reading level and interests.
• Organized and maintained library materials to create a welcoming, easy-to-navigate space.
• Supported story times, reading programs, and literacy activities for students.
• Checked books in and out and helped students understand library procedures.
• Collaborated with teachers and parents to recommend educational resources for learning projects.

Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education – Illinois Valley Community College (2024-08 – 2026-05)

Bachelor's degree in Bilingual Elementary Education with Early Childhood Education Endorsement – Northern Illinois University (2026-08 – 2028-05)