Bethany Smith

OCM BOCES SKATE classroom long term substitute classroom teacher

The SKATE (Scaffolding Kids Abilities Through Education) program for students with Autism provides comprehensive education and social-emotional support. The program utilizes the TEACCH model that provides a clearly organized, structured and modified environment with an emphasis on visual learning modalities. Social-emotional and family support is an integral part of the SKATE program. Classroom configuration being 12:1:3:1.

• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance student support services.
• Developed individualized education plans to meet diverse student needs.
• Utilized assistive technology tools to facilitate learning and communication.

• Teaching 7th and 8th grade students with special needs. Including, but not limited to the following: Plan, prepare and deliver lesson plans and instructional materials that facilitate active learning. Develop schemes of work, lesson plans and tests that are in accordance with established procedures, and NYS curriculums.
• Follow the C.A.R.E principles and TCI methods as set out by Cornell University.
• Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse learning styles.
• Fostered a positive classroom environment encouraging student participation and collaboration.

• Assist staff in maintaining files and databases, assigned jobs to office staff as needed, monitored office operations, served as a resource for customer and staff inquiries.

• Designed and taught a Life Skills course to inmates twice weekly as a part of a program to reduce recidivism rates. This was in conjunction with an advocacy program that provided wrap around services to released inmates.
• Collaborated with mental health professionals to create tailored support plans for participants.

• Provided Speech and Language services to a diverse caseload of approximately 50 students per year.

• Provided speech and language services to a high needs caseload of 17 students.

• Developed effective lesson plans for children and adults.
• Tailored lesson plans to the students needs.
• Charted progress by maintaining portfolios.