Zulaika Hernandez

Elementary Teacher

My Educational Philosophy

I believe that a teacher is should to enter the classroom with only the highest of expectations for each and every one of her students. With dedication, organization, and hard work, her students will be successful. 

The ideal classroom is one where children are free to share their thoughts. All children bring something unique and important to the learning environment. A successful classroom will nurture children’s gifts and give them room to flourish. One of my biggest goals as an educator is to incorporate lessons, which will create students that are technology literate. Incorporating the use of technology in a way that prepares my students for their future profession is especially important to me. 

Teaching is a life-long process of learning from your students, peers, parents, and the community. A teacher should always learn new strategies, seek new ideas, and adapt her philosophy. If I am growing and learning, I am fulfilling my calling as an educator. 

Profile

Creative and patient elementary teacher. Great technological skills and bold approach to creating effective lesson plans in accordance with district and state curricula. Seeking to leverage skills to contribute to high quality teaching at an elementary school. 

Education

B.S. Elementary Education

 University of Central Florida

 Orlando, FL

Fall 2021

Key Skills

Certifications & Training

Awards

President's Honor Roll, UCF

Professional Experience

Fourth Grade ELA Teacher, Lake Como K-8, Orange County Public Schools

August 2023-Present

Dedicated 4th grade ELA teacher committed to enhancing student reading proficiency through targeted instructional strategies and individualized support. Proven ability to foster significant academic growth and reduce performance gaps. 

Fourth Grade ELA Teacher, Aloma E.S., Orange County Public Schools

August 2023-Present

Demonstrated substantial academic growth in my students, with 31.03% improving by one level and 48.28% by two levels. I achieved a significant reduction in low performers, decreasing those at Level 1 from 75.86% to 44.83%. Additionally, I raised the percentage of students scoring proficient (Level 3 or higher) from 10.34% to 34.48% from BOY to MOY, showcasing my ability to enhance student learning outcomes through innovative and individualized instructional approaches. 

Fifth Grade Math/Science Teacher, Baldwin Park E.S., Orange County Public Schools

August 2022-May 2023

Plan, organize and implement an appropriate instructional program in a learning environment that guides and encourages students to develop and fulfill their academic potential.

Tier I Intervention Teacher, Baldwin Park E.S., Orange County Public Schools

January-May 2022

Work with specific student groupings, continually monitoring and assessing student progress and implementing needed strategies to support the students and their progress. 

Senior Intern, Baldwin Park E.S., Orange County Public Schools

August-December 2021

Help with creating lesson plans that align with district and state standards. Instruct whole group and small groups of students, and participate in planning and data meetings. 

Tutor 

April-May 2021 

Reviewing classroom or curricula topics and assignments. Assisting students with homework, projects, test preparation, papers, research and other academic tasks. Working with students to help them understand key concepts, especially those learned in the classroom.

Junior Intern, Catalina E.S., Orange County Public Schools 

January-April 2021

Help with creating lesson plans that align with district and state standards. Instruct whole group and small groups of students, and participate in planning and data meetings. 

Substitute Teacher, Kelly Educational Staffing

February 2016 - December 2017 

Take on the responsibilities of teachers in Orange County Public Schools during their absence, including creating and administering lessons in various subjects.