April Lyons
Dothan,AL
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate professional with 29 years of experience as a Special Education Teacher supporting vulnerable individuals seeking to transition into nonprofit advocacy work to support victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Brings a life-long and personal commitment to empowerment, crisis intervention, and community engagement.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Geneva County Schools
07.2024 - 05.2025
- Taught all academic subject areas in a self-contained classroom for students with multiple disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional/behavioral disorders, and physical impairments.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) in compliance with federal and state regulations, ensuring student access to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
- Designed and delivered transition-focused curriculum emphasizing life skills, vocational training, self-advocacy, and post-secondary planning for students aged 14–21.
- Conducted regular progress monitoring and maintained detailed documentation for IEP goals, behavior intervention plans (BIPs), and functional behavior assessments (FBAs).
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams including therapists, counselors, job coaches, and families to create holistic educational and behavioral support systems.
- Facilitated community-based instruction (CBI) and work-based learning experiences to prepare students for independent or supported adult living.
- Managed paraprofessionals, providing training in behavior management, safety protocols, and instructional support.
Special Education Teacher
Houston County Schools
07.2021 - 05.2024
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Partnered with standard education teachers from across academic departments.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
- Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
- Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.
Special Education Teacher
Dothan City Schools
01.2003 - 05.2021
- Delivered differentiated instruction in core academic subjects (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) to students with learning disabilities and mild behavior disabilities, ensuring their access to the general education curriculum and preparation for standard high school diplomas.
- Developed and implemented Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to each student's academic and behavioral needs, in alignment with state and federal education requirements.
- Provided direct instruction in small groups or one-on-one settings to enhance comprehension, organizational skills, and self-regulation, fostering academic and social success.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to create inclusive lesson plans, accommodations, and modifications that allowed students to participate fully in the classroom environment.
- Utilized positive behavior support strategies and social-emotional learning techniques to help students develop self-management skills and address mild behavioral challenges.
- Facilitated transition planning for post-graduation, including career readiness, vocational training, and college preparation, to ensure smooth transition into adulthood.
- Collaborated with parents, counselors, and support staff to ensure consistent support across home, school, and community environments.
- Promoted a positive, inclusive classroom environment that encouraged self-advocacy, independence, and a sense of belonging for students with disabilities.
Education
Master's Degree - Library-Media Specialist
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL12-2010
Bachelor of Science - Mild Learning/Behavior Disabilities
Troy University
Dothan, AL12-1996
Skills
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Advocacy & Empowerment
- Confidentiality & Boundaries
- Individualized Support Plans
- Conflict Resolution
- Educational Outreach & Prevention
- Empathetic Communication
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Accomplishments
Houston County Educator of the Year Award, 2010
Certification
- Managing Crisis Safely
- Seizure First Aid
- Transition Leadership, Auburn University
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Geneva County Schools
07.2024 - 05.2025
Special Education Teacher
Houston County Schools
07.2021 - 05.2024
Special Education Teacher
Dothan City Schools
01.2003 - 05.2021
Master's Degree - Library-Media Specialist
University of West Alabama
Bachelor of Science - Mild Learning/Behavior Disabilities
Troy University
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