Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Andrea Dakuras

Naperville,IL

Summary

Dedicated and compassionate Special Education professional with a strong commitment to supporting diverse learners. Experienced in creating inclusive, student-centered environments that foster growth in academic, social, and emotional skills. Passionate about empowering students through individualized support, collaboration with families and staff, and promoting self-advocacy and independence.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

LBS1

West Chicago School District 33
West Chicago, IL
09.2022 - Current

Teaching Experiences in District 33

  • Co-Taught 8th grade ELA and Social Studies
  • Taught 8th Grade Self-Contained ELA, Social Studies and Social Skills
  • Taught in an ED Self-Contained 6-8th grade classroom
  • Co-Taught 6th Grade Math and Science

Extra Curricular Activities in District 33

  • Cheerleading coach
  • PBIS Committee
  • Special Ed Committee
  • Craft Club Sponsor
  • Volunteer Regularly for extra curricular activities

Highlights

  • Cultivated a proactive approach to responsibilities, ensuring high standards of performance and reliability.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.

Behavioral Therapist

Giant Steps School
Lisle
04.2022 - 09.2022

Managed approximately 30 adults on the Autism Spectrum and 10 staff members

  • Developed individualized treatment plans based on client assessments and behavioral analysis.
  • Implemented evidence-based interventions to promote behavioral and emotional growth in clients.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care and monitor progress effectively.
  • Trained and mentored junior therapists on therapeutic techniques and client management strategies.

Family Liason / Register Behavioral Therapist

Behavioral Perspective Inc
Aurora
10.2013 - 05.2022
  • Facilitated communication between families and school staff to enhance student support.
  • Coordinated family engagement initiatives to foster positive school-community relationships.
  • Developed resources and workshops for families to improve educational outcomes.
  • Implemented feedback systems for families to voice concerns and suggestions effectively.
  • Assisted in crisis intervention strategies, ensuring timely support for families in need.
  • Organized events that promote parental involvement and strengthen community ties.
  • Trained new staff members on family liaison protocols and best practices.
  • Served as a liaison between families and school personnel, facilitating open lines of communication to enhance student outcomes.
  • Managed behavioral programs for approximately 15 individuals with autism
  • Managed a staff of 6-8 Registered Behavioral Technicians

Education

Master of Arts - Special Education/ Applied Behavior Analysis

Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
08-2021

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Benedictine University
Lisle, IL
12-1989

Skills

  • Data entry and reporting
  • Cultural sensitivity
  • Case tracking and follow up
  • Effective communication
  • Relationship building
  • Behavioral management
  • Relationships and rapport
  • Data collection
  • Case management

Timeline

LBS1

West Chicago School District 33
09.2022 - Current

Behavioral Therapist

Giant Steps School
04.2022 - 09.2022

Family Liason / Register Behavioral Therapist

Behavioral Perspective Inc
10.2013 - 05.2022

Master of Arts - Special Education/ Applied Behavior Analysis

Arizona State University

Bachelor of Arts - Elementary Education

Benedictine University