ASHLEY M. HETHERTON
Swartz Creek,MI
Summary
Certified Special Education Teacher and Educational Specialist with over 15 years of experience supporting students with cognitive impairments and intensive behavioral needs. Skilled in delivering differentiated instruction, managing IEPs, and implementing functional life skills programming. Demonstrated leadership in restorative practices, MTSS, and trauma-informed approaches, committed to collaborative, inclusive education and improving outcomes for all learners.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher Consultant
Swartz Creek High School
02.2018 - Current
- Serve as case manager for students with various impairments and behavior plans.
- Collaborate with general education staff, case managers, and social workers to implement effective instruction and accommodations.
- Facilitate IEPs, re-evaluations, and MET meetings with legal compliance and family partnership.
- Provide coaching and training for staff on trauma-informed practices, restorative justice, and MTSS implementation.
- Partner with community agencies (e.g., The Lion’s Club) to fund student programs, securing nearly $2,000 in donations.
- Coordinate Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) testing and transitional programming across K–12.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Internal Substitute Principal
Morrish Elementary School
04.2024 - 06.2024
- Provided building leadership and oversaw daily school operations.
- Managed student discipline and implemented behavior supports in elementary settings.
- Collaborated with instructional staff to support academic and behavioral student needs.
- Maintained communication with families and school personnel.
- Monitored student behavior and enforced discipline policies.
Internal Administrative Substitute
Swartz Creek High School
02.2022 - 06.2022
- Supported 11th–12th grade students and all students in special education with behavioral, academic, and emotional needs.
- Facilitated restorative practices and behavior interventions aligned with student IEPs.
- Monitored attendance and supported truancy processes.
- Assisted with student scheduling and operational needs.
Special Education Teacher – Cognitive Impairment
Swartz Creek High School / International Academy of Flint
08.2010 - 02.2018
- Delivered academic and life skills instruction to students with mild to moderate cognitive impairments (grades 7–12).
- Developed and implemented individualized behavior plans and classroom supports.
- Participated in Genesee County Transition Committee to improve post-secondary access.
- Integrated assistive technology and AAC supports into classroom learning.
3rd Grade Teacher
International Academy of Flint
08.2007 - 06.2010
- Taught 3rd grade Language Arts and Social Studies to ~100 students.
- Planned and delivered differentiated instruction.
- Contributed to school improvement and led after-school tutoring programs.
Education
ED.S - Educational Leadership And Management
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI05-2020
Master of Arts - Special Education - Cognitive Impairments
University of Michigan, Flint
Flint, MI12-2012
Bachelor of Arts - Language Arts
Siena Heights University
Adrian, MI05-2006
Skills
- Cognitive and behavioral development
- Conflict resolution techniques
- Excellent classroom management
- Motivating students
Timeline
Internal Substitute Principal
Morrish Elementary School
04.2024 - 06.2024
Internal Administrative Substitute
Swartz Creek High School
02.2022 - 06.2022
Special Education Teacher Consultant
Swartz Creek High School
02.2018 - Current
Special Education Teacher – Cognitive Impairment
Swartz Creek High School / International Academy of Flint
08.2010 - 02.2018
3rd Grade Teacher
International Academy of Flint
08.2007 - 06.2010
ED.S - Educational Leadership And Management
Central Michigan University
Master of Arts - Special Education - Cognitive Impairments
University of Michigan, Flint
Bachelor of Arts - Language Arts
Siena Heights University
Similar Profiles
Jerrod MullinsJerrod Mullins
Wrestling Coach at Swartz Creek High SchoolWrestling Coach at Swartz Creek High School
William LoderWilliam Loder
Electrician at Swartz Creek Community School DistrictElectrician at Swartz Creek Community School District
Becky S. WellsBecky S. Wells
Life Coach - Secondary Education at Swartz Creek Community SchoolsLife Coach - Secondary Education at Swartz Creek Community Schools
Jamie JohnstonJamie Johnston
Curriculum Director / CTE Coordinator / Human Resources / Principal at Corunna Public SchoolsCurriculum Director / CTE Coordinator / Human Resources / Principal at Corunna Public Schools
Aiden BrushaberAiden Brushaber
Valet at Encore Service GroupValet at Encore Service Group