Amy Spychalski
Long Grove,IL
Summary
Professional in special education with strong background in supporting diverse learners. Skilled in implementing individualized education plans, behavior management, and differentiated instruction. Strong focus on team collaboration, adapting to changing needs, and ensuring positive outcomes for students. Reliable with effective communication skills and compassionate approach to fostering inclusive learning environment.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Instructional Aide
Woodlawn Middle School
08.2023 - Current
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of special education.
- Documented behaviors, implemented interventions, and treatment results.
- Assisted teachers and worked individually with students with special needs, helping each navigate education system.
- Collaborated with teachers to help with classroom and workload management.
- Promoted social-emotional growth by teaching self-regulation techniques and facilitating peer interactions among students.
- Monitored student progress and adjusted support strategies accordingly, ensuring continuous growth and development of skills.
- Monitored classroom to observe students' progress in developing skills as well as manage distracting or inappropriate behavior.
- Supported students during transition periods between activities, reducing anxiety and ensuring smooth transitions throughout the day.
- Provided one-on-one assistance to students with special needs, reinforcing concepts taught during class time and helping them build confidence in their abilities.
Project Manager
Quicksilver
03.2001 - 02.2002
- Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
- Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
- Achieved project deadlines by coordinating with contractors to manage performance.
- Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management.
- Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
- Developed and initiated projects, managed costs, and monitored performance.
- Coordinated material procurement and required services for projects within budget requirements.
- Developed and implemented strategic project plans to meet business objectives.
- Maintained open communication by presenting regular updates on project status to customers.
- Tracked project and team member performance closely to quickly intervene in mistakes or delays.
Project Manager
Organic
10.1999 - 08.2001
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
- Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
- Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
- Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful project completion.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams and resolved conflicts, maintaining a positive work environment throughout the project lifecycle.
- Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
- Tracked project and team member performance closely to quickly intervene in mistakes or delays.
- Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress, and technical problems.
Education
No Degree - Interior Design
Harrington College of Design
ChicagoBachelor of Arts - Journalism
Ball State University
Muncie, IN05-1995
Skills
- Inclusion strategies
- Classroom management
- Classroom organization
- Positive reinforcement
- Emotional support
- Visual supports
- Social skills training
- Data collection
- Sensory integration
- Educational assistance
- Community integration
- Educational support
- Functional life skills
Timeline
Special Education Instructional Aide
Woodlawn Middle School
08.2023 - Current
Project Manager
Quicksilver
03.2001 - 02.2002
Project Manager
Organic
10.1999 - 08.2001
No Degree - Interior Design
Harrington College of Design
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
Ball State University