Education Specialist
- Provide specialized instruction to students with autism, implementing evidence-based practices such as Applied Behavioral Analysis, Augumentative and Alternative Communication Systems, Differential Reinforcement, Task Analysis, Visual Supports/Schedules, Structured Teaching, Social Skills Training, Picture Exchange Communication System, Discrete Trial Training and Video Modeling
- Collaborate with general education teachers to promote inclusion and accommodate diverse learning needs
- Conduct assessments and develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students
- Mentor and support colleagues in the implementation of effective behavior interventions
- Led the creation and development of the Sensory Zone, a dedicated space for sensory regulation
- Implement behavior intervention plans and monitor progress using data-driven methods such as Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence (ABC), Interval, Time Sample, and Duration/Frequency
- Collaborate with parents and create a positive partnership for student success
- Help students with limited communication abilities by assisting in the usage of alternative communication systems including sign language, PECS, nonverbal communication, and AAC systems/devices like Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, and GoTalk
- Focus areas encompass pragmatic language, vocabulary expansion, greetings, intraverbal skills, conversational abilities, speech volume and modulation, expressing emotions, and effectively starting and concluding conversations
- Applied Behavior Analysis strategies and supports to address behaviors such as token boards, priming, first/then cards, timers, provide choices, transitional objects, social stories, modified lessons, task analysis, shaping, visual supports, clear concise directives, routines, structure, and prompting hierarchy
- Apply discrete trial training (DTT) methodology to address students' individualized education program (IEP) goals through one-on-one sessions
- Thorough comprehension and application of various curricula, including Ed Mark, Go Math, Touch Math, Unique Learning Systems (ULS), Handwriting Without Tears, and leveled Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) curriculum for Math, Social Studies, and Science
- Structured classroom environment to facilitate transitions and predictability
- Create and execute a curriculum tailored to students' academic needs, including self-help skills, as well as fine and gross motor skills
- Incorporate comprehensive sensory activities and materials throughout the entire school day
- Obtained funding and established the initial sensory integration room for the district, setting a precedent adopted by other schools in the Fullerton School District and various institutions across Orange County
- Knowledge of assessments used in identifying instructional approaches and formulating data-driven decisions include VB-MAPP, Brigance, Woodcock Johnson, WIAT, and KTEA
- Regular Community-Based Instruction (CBI) excursions, like local community walks to restaurants and stores to focus on teaching students communication, safety skills, play skills, staying in designated areas, and understanding money concepts
- Incorporate mainstreaming opportunities to allow peers in general education to serve as models for appropriate social behavior and communication skills for students
- Apply an evidence-based social skills program such as Zones of Regulation curriculum, to support students in managing their behavior and emotions
- This facilitates the display of acceptable social behaviors, enabling students to seek attention or interact appropriately with others in the educational setting
- Engage in frequent collaboration with Education Specialists from other autism programs in the District and offer continuous mentorship and collaboration with the moderate/severe SDC teacher at Sunset Lane Elementary School
- Management of and ongoing training and mentorship for assigned instructional assistants
- Created an in-person training for Fullerton School District bus drivers to address and support behaviors of students with autism
- Develop presentations aimed at educating students about autism, organize inclusive activities, and foster staff acceptance during Autism Acceptance month.