Sandy Ballentine-Benson
Memphis,TN
Summary
Passionate and dedicated professional with more than 20 years of combined experience in education, public service, and community advocacy. Driven by a lifelong commitment to helping students learn, grow, and reach their full potential, she first discovered her passion for teaching through Junior Achievement student teaching experiences. She later served as a Permanent Substitute Teacher with Shelby County Schools from 2001 to 2007 before transitioning to the Tennessee Department of Human Services, where she developed extensive expertise in leadership, training, mentoring, communication, family engagement, and advocacy while serving children, families, and communities for more than 17 years. Recognized for building positive relationships, fostering collaboration, and creating supportive learning environments, she is eager to return to the classroom and inspire students through engaging instruction, compassion, and real-world experience.
Overview
1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Teacher
Junior Achievement
Memphis, Tennessee
- Developed a passion for education through early classroom teaching experiences.
- Assisted with lesson delivery, student engagement, and interactive learning activities.
- Inspired students through hands-on learning and career readiness experiences.
Eligibility Counselor II / Team Lead
Tennessee Department of Human Services
Memphis,Tennessee
04.2008 - 07.2026
- Trained, coached, and mentored new and experienced employees through individualized instruction, modeling, and ongoing professional support.
- Planned and facilitated in-person and virtual training sessions to strengthen employee knowledge and performance.
- Developed instructional materials, job aids, and learning resources to support adult learners.
- Communicated complex policies clearly to diverse audiences while building trust and understanding.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams across Tennessee to solve problems and improve services.
- Built positive relationships with children, families, and community partners while advocating for client success.
- Reviewed work, provided constructive feedback, and supported continuous improvement.
- Served as the department's EBMS Subject Matter Expert and instructional resource.
- Led onboarding initiatives and mentored new employees.
- Maintained detailed records while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
- Coordinated special projects and demonstrated strong leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills.
Permanent Substitute Teacher
Shelby County Schools
Memphis, Tennessee
01.2001 - 01.2007
- Delivered instruction across multiple grade levels and subject areas.
- Maintained positive classroom environments that promoted learning and respect.
- Implemented teacher lesson plans while adapting instruction to meet diverse student needs.
- Managed classroom behavior using positive reinforcement.
- Collaborated with teachers and administrators to support student success.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University of Memphis
05-2006
Skills
- Classroom Management
- Student & Family Engagement
- Instruction & Training
- Differentiated Support
- Positive Behavior Support
- Parent Communication
- Conflict Resolution
- Team Leadership
- Coaching & Mentoring
- Data Analysis
- Organization & Time Management
- Microsoft Office & Google Workspace
Certification
- DHS Data Security Awareness (2024)
- DHS Records Management (2024)
- Cybersecurity Training (2024)
- Human Services Civil Rights (2024)
- Domestic Violence for Family Assistance (2024)
- SNAP Certification (2021)
- Windows 10 Training (2017)
Timeline
Eligibility Counselor II / Team Lead
Tennessee Department of Human Services
04.2008 - 07.2026
Permanent Substitute Teacher
Shelby County Schools
01.2001 - 01.2007
Student Teacher
Junior Achievement
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University of Memphis
Awards & Recognition
Tennessee Department of Human Services – Excellent Performance Award, Certificate of Appreciation – S.M.I.L.E. Program, DHS Honors – 99% Timely Renewals Project