About me
I have created this website as a collection of my Graduate Studies work and my future professional portfolio. This site is still under construction - My anticipated graduation date is December 2023.
Sara novak
My Highlighted Skills:
15 years of experience in Curriculum Development.
Proven track record in working with ESL, ELL, SPED and socioeconomically disadvantaged students.
Strong management skills in developing, organizing, and implementing special programs for learning-challenged students.
Four years of experience developing, implementing and teaching in a virtual classroom.
Experience in recruiting, training, mentoring and supervising staff and volunteers.
Develops rapport with families that supports a growth mindset.
Years of Experience
Below you will find a cumulative breakdown of my total years of work experience:
15+ years of working with neurodivergent individuals.
10 years of teaching Birth-TK.
9 years of teaching K-12th.
6 years of teaching English Language Learners.
3 years experience working with 6 weeks - 24 months.
Education
2021-2023
Masters of Science in Childhood and Adolescent Development, Concentration in Early Childhood
University of La Verne
Studied: Psychology, Attachment Studies, Motivational Education, Research Methods, Anticipated Graduation Date: Dec 2023.
2010-2012
Irvine Valley College
I completed my early childhood education units and was able to apply for my Master Teacher Permit and upgrade to my Site Supervisor Permit from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I currently still hold the Site Supervisor Permit and also hold a 30-Day Emergency Substitute Permit.
2005-2007
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies University of La Verne
The focus was on Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education.
2002-2005
Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts Marymount College
After graduating from a very small private high school that specialized in working with learning disabilities; I decided to further my educational goals of becoming an educator/counselor to help guide and support individuals like myself. My first stop in this journey was to attend the small junior college located in Rancho Palos Verde, CA. Unfortunately, Marymount College closed down in recent years.
Getting a Bit more personal
I relate to the terminology of (she/her) and am a neurodivergent individual. Due to my neurodivergence, I think outside of the box. I strive to make meaningful connections with all that I meet. My passion has always been to help others overcome their struggles, empower others to take charge, and explore whom they are by creating positive achievable goals.