Experienced Special Education Paraprofessional with over 15 years supporting students with autism and hearing impairments. Expertise in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior management strategies, fostering inclusive learning environments. Strong collaboration with interdisciplinary teams enhances student development and well-being, promoting independence and emotional resilience through tailored support.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Paraprofessional
Mukilteo School District
Everett, WA
09.2024 - Current
Provided one-on-one support to students with special needs, assisting them in their academic and social development
Implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) under the guidance of special education teachers, ensuring that students' specific goals and objectives were met
Collaborated with classroom teachers to modify curriculum materials and adapt instructional strategies to meet the diverse learning needs of students
Assisted in the implementation of behavior management techniques, promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students
Utilized assistive technology devices and tools to enhance student engagement and participation in classroom activities
Monitored student progress through data collection and observation, delivering actionable feedback to teachers to inform instructional adjustments and additional support
Facilitated small group instruction sessions, reinforcing concepts taught by the teacher and addressing individual learning gaps to improve student understanding and confidence
Promoted independence skills among students by teaching self-help tasks such as personal hygiene routines or organizational strategies
Assisted with physical accommodations for students with mobility challenges, including wheelchair transfers or positioning aids
Supported communication needs of non-verbal or limited verbal ability students through alternative communication systems such as picture schedules or sign language cues
Collaborated with related service providers (speech therapists, occupational therapists) to implement therapy goals within the classroom setting
Participated in team meetings and parent conferences, providing input on student progress, strengths, challenges, and recommendations for further support at home or school
Developed positive relationships with parents/guardians by maintaining open lines of communication regarding student progress, challenges faced, and strategies implemented
Ensured a safe learning environment for all students by implementing appropriate behavior intervention plans when necessary
Attended professional development workshops/trainings regularly to stay updated on best practices in special education and inclusion strategies
Collaborated with general education teachers to promote inclusive practices and facilitate the successful integration of students with special needs into mainstream classrooms
Provided emotional support to students with behavioral or emotional challenges, implementing de-escalation techniques and promoting self-regulation skills
Maintained accurate records of student progress, behavior incidents, or other relevant data as required by school policies or IEP guidelines
Served as a positive role model for students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and respect for individual differences
Fostered a sense of belonging among students by encouraging peer interactions and fostering friendships within the classroom setting
Collaborated with school administrators on developing strategies for improving overall inclusion practices within the school community
Behavior Technician
The Haven
Bothell, WA
09.2022 - 08.2024
Working with clients whom have been diagnosed with Autism, I work 1:1 with clients on skills and developing behaviors that are appropriate.
Collected and analyzed data to track client progress and inform treatment planning decisions
Collected and analyzed data to track progress and make data-driven decisions for treatment planning
Supported clients in developing social skills through structured activities and interventions
Implemented positive reinforcement strategies to motivate clients during therapy sessions
Adapted therapy techniques based on individual needs and preferences of each client
Implemented positive reinforcement strategies that enhanced client motivation and engagement during therapy sessions
Developed visual supports such as schedules or token boards to assist with task completion
Worked closely with families/caregivers providing guidance on generalization strategies outside therapy sessions
Collaborated with families/caregivers to provide guidance on generalization strategies, fostering client skill application outside therapy sessions
Implemented crisis management procedures to ensure the safety of clients and staff
Behavioral Health Technician
The Madrone School
Redmond, WA
04.2022 - 08.2022
Provided direct care and support to individuals with behavioral health disorders, ensuring their safety and well-being
Assisted in crisis intervention by employing de-escalation techniques and maintaining a calm environment
Monitored and documented client behaviors, progress, and responses to interventions on a daily basis
Monitored and documented client behaviors and progress to inform treatment interventions and enhance client care
Facilitated group therapy sessions focused on developing coping skills and fostering emotional resilience
Supported clients in activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, meal preparation, and medication management
Participated in staff meetings to discuss client progress, share insights from observations, and contribute to treatment planning discussions
Participated in staff meetings to discuss client progress and insights, contributing to collaborative treatment planning and improved outcomes
Responded promptly to emergency situations following established protocols while ensuring the safety of all individuals involved
Attended trainings on therapeutic interventions techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Utilized crisis prevention strategies effectively during challenging situations involving aggressive or self-harming behaviors
Assisted in the development and implementation of individualized behavior support plans to address specific needs and goals
Assisted in developing and implementing individualized behavior support plans to meet clients' specific needs and goals effectively
Bingo Cashier
The Bingo Zone
Baton Rouge, LA
01.2019 - 03.2022
Greet guests and answer questions about game rules, promotions, and other casino or bingo hall information. Provide a positive and friendly experience for all players.
Sold bingo admission packages, cards, and supplies to enhance guest experience and support revenue.
Process cash, debit, and credit card payments accurately using a cash register or point-of-sale (POS) system.
Verified winning bingo cards and issued accurate payouts to ensure player satisfaction and trust.
Reconciled cash banks and inventory at start and end of shift, ensuring accuracy and accountability in financial operations.
Maintain accountability for all bingo cards, pull tabs, and retail merchandise.
Secured and organized inventory in designated areas for efficient transportation.
Fill out forms and reports, such as for large jackpot payouts, or for any cash discrepancies.
Maintained cleanliness and organization of work area to promote a safe environment.
Experience with handling large sums of money, processing transactions, and balancing a cash drawer.
A high level of accuracy is critical to ensure proper accountability for cash and inventory.
Paraprofessional
Louisiana School for the Deaf
Baton Rouge, LA
11.2016 - 03.2022
Provided one-on-one support to students with special needs, including behavioral, academic, and emotional support
Supported classroom teacher in implementing lesson plans and delivering tailored instruction to meet diverse learning needs of elementary students
Implemented behavior management strategies to promote a productive and respectful classroom atmosphere
Partnered with teacher to foster a positive, inclusive learning environment, enhancing student engagement and participation
Applied behavior management strategies to cultivate a productive and respectful classroom atmosphere, improving student interactions
Utilized various instructional materials and resources to reinforce concepts taught by the teacher
Supported students during independent work time, offering guidance and clarification as needed
Assisted in assessing student progress through observation and informal assessments
Maintained accurate records of student attendance, behavior incidents, and academic performance
Communicated regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress or concerns
Participated in team meetings to discuss individual student needs and develop appropriate interventions
Supervised students during lunchtime, recess, field trips, or other non-instructional activities ensuring their safety at all times
Demonstrated patience and empathy when working with students who faced challenges or difficulties
Monitored student progress towards IEP goals under the guidance of special education staff members
Aided in maintaining an organized classroom environment, ensuring materials were readily accessible
Cultivated a safe space where all children felt valued regardless of their background or abilities
Collaborated with the teacher to differentiate instruction based on individual student needs
Implemented accommodations outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities
Supported students with personal care needs such as toileting, feeding, or dressing when necessary
Working with Elementary age children that are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in small groups in their classroom.
Supported students with personal care needs such as toileting, feeding, or dressing.
Paraprofessional
Edmonds School District
Edmonds, WA
03.2001 - 08.2016
Assisted teachers at developmental pre-school, preparing children ages 3-5 for transition to developmental or general education kindergarten.
I then followed one of our students as his Provided one-on-one support. I would help him transition in and out of his wheelchair. He also needed help with writing I was his scribe.
Supported one-on-one with a student for 5 years, then transitioned to a behavioral classroom, instructing small groups of up to 3 students in math, reading, and writing.