While teaching at Jennings Elementary I have been constantly evaluated by several sources in order to insure my efficacy as an educator. Performance evaluations, both by my mentor and administrator have helped shape and define my areas of improvement. I have worked with my mentor for two years using the Pathwise Mentoring Program to help translate my university experiences into useful classroom practices. Part of the Pathwise system includes several self evaluations, including evaluations on my ability to effectively plan lessons, manage a classroom, and adjust my lessons as needed both during teaching and after. My performance in the classroom has also been evaluated on a number of occasions by my administrator. I am continually noted for having a "strong connections with kids" and creating a "supportive climate, where children felt comfortable helping each other." Below is a link to my most recent performance evaluation.

(click on the image for a PDF copy of my performance evaluation)

In consideration of slower Internet connections and an attempt to make download times faster I have not included all evaluations on the website. I can however send you a copy via e-mail or postal mail upon your request.

Benjamin Joseph Rimes

314 Kingsley Ave.
St. Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 985-0375
E-mail: Ben Rimes

Objective

To encourage and facilitate authentic integration of technology within the classroom curriculum. To accommodate every laerner through the connection of learning goals to real life experiences, and to broaden my own personal understanding through an immersion of diverse experiences.

Education

September 1997 - December 2002 Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, MI

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, cum laude
Science & Math Minor / Group Social Sciences Minor

• Michigan Provisional Certification in Elementary Education K-6
• Social Studies and Science K-8 Endorsed
• Dean's List (Winter 1999 through Winter 2002)

Work Experience

August 2003 - Present Quincy Community Schools Quincy, MI
Technology Teacher

• Taught a variety of grade levels, students, and curricula throughout DK-5 on a daily basis
• Identified needs for technology integration with classroom curricula
• Developed Web Quests and other web based learning materials for students
• Instructed students on the use of MS Office, web development software, and online learning
• Administered AR Database, led building Technology Committee, and maintained school website

December 2002 - 2003 Kalamazoo Public Schools Kalamazoo, MI
Substitute Teacher

• Taught a variety of grade levels, students, and curricula throughout K-6 on a daily basis
• Maintained classroom discipline based on teachers' plans and personal improvisation
• Carried out formal and informal duties of regular classroom teacher in his or her absence
  

August 2002 - December 2002 Intern Teaching Kalamazoo, MI
Intern Teacher - 5th Grade

• Taught students using diverse methods of instruction, accommodation, and assessment
• Created student inquiry driven science stations, demonstrations, and investigations
• Maintained appropriate classroom discipline adapted from mentor teacher's management
• Developed lessons and units for "Academically Talented" Language Arts program

May 1999 - August 1999 Witheral School & Child Care St. Joseph, MI
Teacher's Assistant

• Assisted two primary teachers in the school age summer program of students in 3-6
• Made and taught my own lesson plans for a small group of 6-10 third graders
• Helped create thematic study units including a rainforest study and general nutrition

Volunteer & Professional Experience

MACUL Member (Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning)
MACUL Board Member 2006-2008
Kalamazoo Area Academic Achievement Program Mentor
Miller Auditorium Usher Corps

Interests and Activities

My experience in Boy Scouts was very rewarding and I still enjoy camping to this day. I also enjoy an occasional game of chess, and I am very interested in the theater, whether on stage or just watching from the seats. Web page design is also a growing interest of mine, as is finding ways to work technology into the classroom.

Awards Received

TAPS Award (Using Technology for Authentic Problem Solving)
WMU Medallion Scholarship for Excellence
Eagle Scout Award

References

Available upon request