
Hello
With over two decades of experience and training, I have learned the best practices for teaching diverse learners. I am confident my expertise, passion, and professionalism will positively impact your students and school community.
About Me
I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Special Education from the University of Delaware and am a certified reading teacher. My commitment to education is reflected in the certifications I’ve obtained throughout my teaching career, including Wilson Reading System Level I and Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator. Furthermore, I will be receiving my SBL/SDL diploma from Manhattanville University at the end of Summer 2025, and I am eager to apply these leadership skills to support teachers in their professional growth and daily responsibilities of educating students.
Over the course of my 21 years of experience and training, I have learned and implemented best practices for teaching struggling students in grades K–6. Utilizing technology, instructional materials, and strategies that motivate students and improve their reading and math skills is a key component of my teaching philosophy. I have successfully implemented interventions such as Fundations, Orton-Gillingham, and the Wilson Reading System in the elementary grades. I am skilled in tracking student progress and using both formal and informal assessments—including i-Ready, aimswebPlus, DIBELS, the Developmental Reading Assessment, the Gallistel-Ellis Test of Coding Skills, and the Barnell Loft Diagnostic Spelling Test—to collect data and inform instruction.
Throughout my career, I have taken on leadership responsibilities that mirror administrative duties, such as mentoring teachers, coordinating schoolwide initiatives, collaborating with student support teams to address academic and behavioral needs, and analyzing student performance data. These experiences have provided me with a strong foundation in fostering a positive school culture, supporting educators, and making data-driven, student-centered decisions.
As a future school leader, I will strive to act responsibly and ethically, always making decisions that prioritize the best interests of students and staff. I have demonstrated my commitment to students in my current school district by continually fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. I firmly believe that being reflective and embracing lifelong learning have enabled me to grow as a professional in the field of education, positively impacting student achievement.
Contact
Email: je_mcdermott@yahoo.com
Phone: 917-886-8257