Rachel Dawson
Madison
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated professional with a strong educational foundation and a creative approach to problem-solving. Committed to fostering collaboration in a team-oriented environment while actively contributing innovative ideas that align with organizational objectives. Passionate about driving success through hard work and a positive attitude, prepared to make a meaningful impact in a forward-thinking organization.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Membership Development Coordinator
Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce
Madison, SD
06.2023 - Current
- Engaged with chamber members to disseminate updates on programs, events, and initiatives.
- Facilitated planning and coordination of chamber events to enhance community engagement.
- Managed sales, tracking, and distribution of Mad Money gift cards, ensuring seamless transactions for participating businesses.
- Conducted in-person business visits to support members and identify opportunities for Chamber assistance
Part Time Library Teacher
St. Thomas of Aquinas Catholic School
Madison, SD
08.2024 - 05.2025
- Managed and organized library materials to maintain an accessible and engaging collection
- Designed and delivered interactive reading lessons to foster student engagement with literature.
- Guided students in locating and leveraging library resources to enhance research and academic success.
- Collaborated with classroom teachers to enhance curriculum integration within library instruction.
2nd Grade Teacher
Madison Elementary
Madison, SD
08.2019 - 05.2023
- Implemented curriculum and instructional strategies for 2nd grade, fostering a supportive learning environment aligned with state standards.
- Developed comprehensive curriculum maps and daily lesson plans to enhance student learning outcomes.
- Managed classroom behavior and routines to create a structured, positive learning environment
- Assessed student progress and adjusted instruction to meet diverse learning needs
- Communicated regularly with parents and staff regarding student performance and classroom expectations
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Flandreau Elementary
Flandreau, SD
08.2017 - 05.2019
- Provided special education instruction in reading, writing, and math at the elementary level
- Assisted with portions of preschool screenings to support early developmental assessments
- Supervised and supported paraprofessionals in implementing instructional and behavioral plans
- Developed and maintained Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and behavior plans
- Conducted IEP meetings and collaborated with parents, teachers, and support staff
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Susan B. Anthony
Sioux Falls, SD
08.2015 - 05.2017
- Delivered resource special education instruction in reading, writing, and math
- Supervised paraprofessionals and coordinated classroom support to meet student needs
- Assessed students and administered evaluations to guide instructional planning
- Developed and implemented IEPs and behavior plans
- Conducted IEP meetings and collaborated with parents, teachers, and support staff
Special Education Long Term Sub
LifeScape
Sioux Falls, SD
01.2015 - 08.2015
- Provided instruction and support to students with high needs using Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
- Supervised and supported 3 paraprofessionals, preparing materials and coordinating instructional tasks
- Developed and implemented individualized learning and behavior plans
- Collaborated with staff to monitor student progress and adjust interventions as needed
Education
Master of Science - Educational Technology
Dakota State University
Madison, SD12.2023
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education, Special Education
The University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD12.2014
High School Diploma -
Gehlen Catholic High School
Le Mars, IA05.2010
Skills
- Lesson planning expertise
- Classroom management & paraprofessional supervision
- IEP development and execution
- Student assessment & progress monitoring
- Nonprofit & community engagement
Timeline
Part Time Library Teacher
St. Thomas of Aquinas Catholic School
08.2024 - 05.2025
Membership Development Coordinator
Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce
06.2023 - Current
2nd Grade Teacher
Madison Elementary
08.2019 - 05.2023
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Flandreau Elementary
08.2017 - 05.2019
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Susan B. Anthony
08.2015 - 05.2017
Special Education Long Term Sub
LifeScape
01.2015 - 08.2015
Master of Science - Educational Technology
Dakota State University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education, Special Education
The University of South Dakota
High School Diploma -
Gehlen Catholic High School