April Lyons
Dothan,AL
Summary
Well-rounded and compassionate Special Education Teacher skilled at addressing each student's unique needs and creating effective lesson plans to accommodate special circumstances. Provides appropriate and individualized instruction to build foundations for lifelong learning. Develops, implements and acts as teacher of record of Individualized Education Plans for students with disabilities.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Houston County Bd. of Ed., Ashford Elementary
Dothan, AL
07.2021 - 05.2024
- Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
- Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
- Collaborated with parents, administrators, and other teachers to ensure appropriate services for students with special needs.
- Maintained accurate records of student grades, attendance, assessment results, discipline referrals.
- Implemented assistive technologies into daily instruction when necessary.
- Assessed student progress on IEP goals and objectives through data collection, observation, and informal testing.
- supervised paraprofessionals
Special Education Teacher
Dothan City Schools, Dothan Preparatory Academy
Dothan, AL
08.2019 - 07.2021
- Collaborated with general education teachers to include students in classroom activities.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports and state-specific special education documentation.
- Supported general education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with special needs.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
Special Education Teacher
Dothan City Schools, Dothan High School
Dothan, AL
08.2004 - 08.2019
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Advocated for needs of the students with disabilities.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Solved student behavioral issues according to building expectations and codes of conduct.
- Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
- Established and maintained dynamic working relationships with students and parents to support classroom objectives.
- Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
- Maintained student records in accordance with district standards.
Education
Master of Science - School Library-Media Specialist
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL05-2009
Master of Science - Mild/Learning Behavior Disabilities
Troy University
Dothan, AL12-1997
Skills
- Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Proficient in creating and implementing IEPs tailored to students' needs
- Differentiated Instruction: Skilled in adapting teaching methods and materials to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities
- Behavior Management: Experienced in applying positive behavior support strategies and managing challenging behaviors effectively
- Collaboration: Able to work closely with parents, caregivers, and multidisciplinary teams to support student progress and well-being
- Assessment and Evaluation: Capable of conducting assessments and using data to inform instructional decisions and measure student growth
- Specialized Instructional Techniques: Knowledgeable in using specialized techniques such as multisensory instruction, assistive technology, and adaptive learning tools
- Cultural Competence: Sensitivity and ability to work with students from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds
- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with students, colleagues, and stakeholders
- Empathy and Patience: Ability to connect with students with disabilities, demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding
- Advocacy: Advocate for students with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate services and accommodations
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Houston County Bd. of Ed., Ashford Elementary
07.2021 - 05.2024
Special Education Teacher
Dothan City Schools, Dothan Preparatory Academy
08.2019 - 07.2021
Special Education Teacher
Dothan City Schools, Dothan High School
08.2004 - 08.2019
Master of Science - School Library-Media Specialist
University of West Alabama
Master of Science - Mild/Learning Behavior Disabilities
Troy University
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