María E. Octaviani
Springfield
Summary
Dedicated and student-centered Middle School General Science Teacher with a strong commitment to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and academic growth in diverse learners. Experienced in designing engaging, standards-aligned lessons that promote inquiry-based learning and real-world application of scientific concepts. Proven collaborator who actively contributes to multiple school committees, supporting initiatives that enhance school culture, equity, and student achievement. Skilled in building positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues while maintaining a structured and inclusive classroom environment. Passionate about continuous professional growth and creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire lifelong learners.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Science Teacher
South End Middle School, Springfield Public Schools
Springfield, MA
08.2022 - Current
- Design and implemented engaging 6th and 7th grade science lessons aligned with state standards, incorporating hands-on experiments and real-world connections to deepen understanding.
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving through inquiry-based learning, classroom discussions, and interdisciplinary projects integrating science, math, and technology.
- Assess student progress using a variety of evaluation methods and provided individualized support to improve comprehension and academic performance.
- Apply differentiated instruction strategies to meet diverse learning needs and ensure all students could access and engage with content.
- Built strong relationships with students, families, and staff while maintaining a positive classroom environment through consistent expectations, collaboration, and communication.
Mock Trial Co- Coordinator
South End Middle School
Springfield, MA
08.2022 - Current
- Coordinate and co-led a middle school mock trial program, organizing meetings, timelines, and case preparation to ensure student readiness for competitions.
- Guide students in analyzing legal cases, developing arguments, and practicing courtroom procedures to strengthen public speaking and critical thinking skills.
- Assist with coordinating judge visits, including scheduling, preparing students for feedback sessions, and facilitating meaningful interactions with legal professionals.
- Foster a supportive and inclusive environment that encouraged student confidence, teamwork, and active participation in all aspects of the mock trial process.
Academic Intervention Teacher (Saturday School)
South End Middle School
Springfield, MA
10.2022 - Current
- Provide targeted academic intervention during Saturday School, supporting middle school students in strengthening skills in core subject areas.
- Deliver small-group and individualized instruction based on student needs to improve understanding and academic performance.
- Monitor and assessed student progress, adjusting instructional strategies to ensure growth and mastery of key concepts.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers and staff to align interventions with classroom instruction and support overall student success.
Science Department Chair
South End Middle School
Springfield, MA
08.2023 - Current
- Lead the middle school science department in curriculum planning and alignment with state standards to ensure rigorous and cohesive instruction across grade levels.
- Facilitate regular team meetings to analyze student data, share best practices, and support continuous instructional improvement.
- Mentor and supported science teachers through coaching, collaboration, and professional development opportunities.
- Coordinate department initiatives, resources, and assessments while collaborating with administration to enhance student achievement and program effectiveness.
D.I.R.E. Team Member
South End Middle School
Springfield, MA
08.2024 - Current
- Collaborate with the D.I.R.E. (Diversity, Inclusion, Respect, and Equity) team to design and implement initiatives that promote an inclusive and culturally responsive school environment.
- Facilitate staff and student discussions on topics such as racial equity, identity, and belonging to foster awareness and meaningful dialogue.
- Organize school-wide activities and events, including heritage month celebrations and community-building initiatives, to honor and uplift diverse perspectives.
- Partner with staff, students, and families to support equitable practices, strengthen relationships, and enhance a positive school climate.
6th Grade Team Lead
South End Middle School
Springfield, MA
08.2025 - 02.2026
- Led the 6th grade team by facilitating regular meetings, setting goals, and ensuring alignment of instructional practices across content areas.
- Collaborated with teachers to analyze student data, address academic and behavioral needs, and implement targeted interventions.
- Served as a liaison between administration and staff, communicating key information and supporting school-wide initiatives.
- Conducted parent-teacher conferences to communicate student progress, address concerns, and strengthen partnerships between school and families while fostering a positive, collaborative team culture.
PBIS Team Member
South End Middle School
Springfield, MA
08.2022 - 09.2023
- Collaborated with the PBIS team to develop and implement school-wide behavior expectations and interventions that promote a positive and supportive school climate.
- Analyzed student behavior data to identify trends, inform decision-making, and adjust strategies to improve student outcomes.
- Supported the creation and implementation of incentive programs and recognition systems to reinforce positive student behavior.
- Partnered with staff, students, and families to ensure consistent expectations, provide support, and foster a culture of respect, accountability, and engagement.
Paraprofessional
STEM Middle Academy
Springfield, MA
08.2021 - 06.2022
- Collaborated with teachers to support instructional activities and enhance student learning experiences.
- Facilitated small group instruction, promoting active engagement and skill mastery among students.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to foster a positive classroom environment.
- Coordinated with special education staff to ensure compliance with educational regulations and standards.
Education
Master of Arts - Education
Springfield College
Springfield, Massachusetts05-2025
Bachelor’s Degree - Communications
Universidad del Sagrado Corazón
Santurce, Puerto Rico01-2004
Skills
- Certified healthcare interpreter
- Experienced with Microsoft Office
- Online Language & Learning Academy through CORE learning
- UnboundEd Training – Springfield Public Schools
- Participated in professional learning focused on equitable instruction and grade-level, engaging, affirming, and meaningful (GLEAM) teaching practices
- Applied strategies to support rigorous instruction and improve learning outcomes for diverse students
Certification
- Certified Medical Interpreter (Spanish English)
- SEI Endorsement – Sheltered English Immersion Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
- Massachusetts Educator License – In Progress
- Passed MTEL Communication & Literacy - Reading
- Working toward full Massachusetts teacher licensure
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
6th Grade Team Lead
South End Middle School
08.2025 - 02.2026
D.I.R.E. Team Member
South End Middle School
08.2024 - Current
Science Department Chair
South End Middle School
08.2023 - Current
Academic Intervention Teacher (Saturday School)
South End Middle School
10.2022 - Current
Mock Trial Co- Coordinator
South End Middle School
08.2022 - Current
PBIS Team Member
South End Middle School
08.2022 - 09.2023
General Science Teacher
South End Middle School, Springfield Public Schools
08.2022 - Current
Paraprofessional
STEM Middle Academy
08.2021 - 06.2022
Bachelor’s Degree - Communications
Universidad del Sagrado Corazón
Master of Arts - Education
Springfield College
Awards and Recognition
Surprise Spotlight Recognition, Springfield Public Schools — May 15, 2025, Awarded in recognition of inspirational dedication to students and a strong belief in the power of education.
Leadership and School Involvement
- Mock Trial Program – Discovering Justice
- South End Middle School | 2023–Present
- Guide middle school students in preparing and presenting legal cases through the Discovering Justice Mock Trial program.
- Support students in analyzing evidence, questioning witnesses, and presenting arguments before a judge and jury.
- D.I.R.E. Team (Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Equity)
- South End Middle School
- Collaborate with colleagues to support school initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and equity.
- Help develop activities that encourage respect and inclusion for all students.
- Saturday School Program
- Provide additional academic support to students during Saturday sessions.
- Help students complete assignments and strengthen their understanding of classroom material.