ABOUT DENISE

I chose the name de-learning because it takes determination to learn.

Mine is not a unique story, but it is mine...
As a child I was told that I was not smart enough to go to college, so I should pick a trade. I have been in the restaurant business for over 25 years. I've learned along my way that you go to college to learn, not because you are smart. I am learning, and I love to teach.

At the age of 39, I returned to college and received my BS in Human Services, Summa Cum Laude from the Boston Campus of the Springfield College, School of Human Service. At the age of 40, I entered my first classroom as a Teacher. This was a dream come true for me... I finally became the person I believe, I was meant to be.

All of life lessons have lead me to this point in my journey, and I am truly grateful for all the support I have received from my God, my family, co-workers, professors and friends. We can not do this alone, they say it takes a village to raise a child, and at heart, I am still a child. I want to thank my sister Kelly Ann, who is my rock, her support and love has kept me grounded and focused. I look forward to growing old with her.

At the age of 43, I was chosen as 1 of 5, Telamon Insurance & Financial Network 2006 Charitable Foundation Awardees of $1000.00 scholarship.

The article states:
"Ms. McCall's journey to becoming a teacher was fraught with personal challenges. With a compassion and empathy learned from her own disadvantaged childhood, she now provides education, counseling and support services to adolescents with learning disabilities and behavior disorders. Her goal is a Masters Degree in Human Services, Leadership and Management from Springfield College, Boston campus."

I am very humbled to be chosen as one of the 2006 Telamon Insurance & Financial Network Charitable Foundation Awardees and as I continue my education I will do my best to make you all proud.

I changed my focus from management to technology in education. I took one class at the Harvard Extension School in Information Technology in September 2006. I did not feel Harvard was right for me, so I transferred to a college that is involved in their community and supports their students.

I graduated from Cambridge College's Master of Education program in June 2009, with a concentration in Instructional Technologies. I have moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, to be near my family and friends. My long-term goal is to teach educators at the college level and to work in a DSS program with at-risk youth. I see technology being used poorly, and I want to be able to teach educators to allow the technology to enhance their teaching, not replace it. There are too many free tools available for educators not to use them.

My personal philosophy on education is that we need to teach our children more than just academics. Teachers have become parent, counselor and educator to today's youth. An education is a right in this country for everyone, not for only white people. We need to be culturally responsive to all students. We need to meet the student where they're at, find out what is good about each child, and begin with that.

The tools of the 21st century should enhance education, not replace it. I can teach my students to use a computer, but what use is it, if they do not use it in the context of their subjects taught?


Professional Profile

Enthusiastic, resourceful teaching professional with a genuine interest in students' cognitive and social growth.

Actively involved in all areas of education, including curriculum development, teacher training, student career preparation, and community work.

Strong passion for transitional services and technology to motivate and inspire students, while creating a fun and challenging learning environment.

A self-driven leader with excellent communication and interpersonal skills who effectively collaborates with all levels of staff members and fosters quality relationships.

Solid experience in integrating technology into daily instruction.

Clear communications skills; strong desire to improve current skills; people oriented; highly reliable; motivated by a fast challenging atmosphere.

Computer System Manager: Manage 50-80 user accounts on file server. (networked computers) Manage computer files, troubleshoot school network, set up distribution, set up securities, maintain 25 desktop computers, remote administrator, in-house I.T.

Engage in continuing education in the areas of: computer hardware, including upgrades and new technologies,and computer software, including new versions and products.

Education:

Master of Education, 2009 Concentration in Instructional Technology, Cambridge College, Cambridge, MA

Bachelor of Science, 2005 Concentration in Human Services, Springfield College School of Human Services, Boston, MA

Disney College, Internship Program, 1985 Kissimmee, FLA

Studies of Hotel Restaurant Management, 1983 Quincy Jr. College, Quincy, MA

Diploma Culinary Arts, 1981 Quincy Vocational Technical High School, Quincy, MA


Teaching History:

Statesville Road Elementary, Charlotte, North Carolina 2011
Teacher and Technology Contact, IB World School K-5 Computer teacher , instruct students in using the Internet, Microsoft Office 2003, 2007, and how to create personal portfolios.

In house tech contact, manage and maintain 150 desktop computers, printers, manage user accounts, set-up securities and register students and staff accounts on network.
The Holden School, Charlestown, Massachusetts 2001 - 2009

Computer Teacher
Multimedia Teacher
Digital Photography Teacher
Culinary Arts Teacher
Exchange Server Administrator
In-house Tech Coordinator
Professional Trainer for Integrating Technology into the Curriculum
Assistive Tchnology Specialist


Instruction:
Develop lesson plans, identify instructional objectives, determine instructional strategies, decide upon computer software to be used, plan individualized or group lesson assignments, determine instructional aids or materials needed.

Career exploration: work ethics/job attitudes, interview skills, developing a digital portfolio, MS Office, computer graphics, office skills.

Behavior Management:
Disruptive behavior techniques, CPI certified, CPR certified, crisis intervention skills, controlling aggressive behavior, and rewarding Positive classroom behavior.

Tech Coordinator:
In-service trainer; Inspiration Software, Text Reader's, Write: OutLoud Software, Web design, First Class Client Server, Webquests, Computer set-up, Microsoft Office 2003/2007

Culinary Arts Instructor:
Plans menus and teach students to shop, prepare food, bake and cook full meals. Demonstrate work values, such as self-improvement, independence, dependability, productivity, and pride in work.

Cambridge College Cambridge, Ma
Teaching Assistant, Professional Semester
Instruction: Assist Masters students in creating graphs in Microsoft Office 2003/ 2007

Professional Development:
Easter Seals Assistive Technology Training, 2008
Intel Teach to the Future, Certified Pre-Service Teacher 2007
Massachusetts Department of Education, Special Education Laws (MDOE)
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
UMASS Boston, Alternative Strategies for Transitions from School to Adult Life
Roxbury Community College, Web Design
Behavioral Management and Sensitivity Training
Trauma Recovery and Empowerment Program (TREM)
Culturally Responsive Teaching

(MAAPS) Massachusetts Association of 766 Approved Private Schools Conference 2001- 2008:

Internet Safety & Usage in Special Needs Environments
Developing Therapeutic Relationships with Hard to Reach Students
Using Evidence – Based Social Skills to Improve Classroom Management
Science and Technology – Strategies for Engaging Upper Level Students Effective Transition Process
Tools for Learning – Technology for Diverse Learners
Survive & Thrive! Burnout and Renewal in the Helping Professional
Anger, Rage and Trauma: Communication and Intervention Strategies
Instructional Strategies in Literacy for Students with Moderate to Severe Developmental Disabilities
Understanding Bullying: Practical and Effective Interventions
The Transition Planning Process
Mentoring & Conflict Resolution Skills
Creating Electronic Portfolios for Students with Disabilities
Computer Access: What Everyone Should Know
Effective Communication: Listening to Students with Skill and Intention
Consistency across the Curriculum for Language - Based Learning Disabled Students Grades 7-12
Strong at the Broken Places: Resiliency in the Lives of Survivors
Positive Classroom Behavior Management
Activities for teaching Challenging Topics in Sexuality Education
Infusing Critical and Creative Thinking Into Content Instruction
The Psycho-educational Approach: Strength-based Interventions Part I & II
Transitioning to technology: Integrating Technology Into the Curriculum
"I Am Bad, So I DO Bad Things": The Power of Shame
Identifying, Understanding and Working with Student Learning Styles: For Teachers
IDEA-Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Volunteer:
N. Tryon Job Link Center, Charlotte, NC
F.I.R.S.T. Academy, Dorchester, Ma
Healthcare Dimensions Hospice, Waltham, Ma
The Holden School Technical Committee, Charlestown, Ma
Mishawum Park Computer Learning Center, Charlestown, Ma


Email Contact: denisemccall@carolina.rr.com

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