Orange County Public Schools, Principal of the Year Finalist
Betsy Theis
Orange County Public Schools
ORLANDO,FL
42
years of professional experience
Accomplished educator recognized for strong verbal and written communication skills. Adept at leading strategic initiatives and developing faculty programs, ensuring a positive impact on student achievement and school culture.
Work History
Principal
8 Years 5 Months
Orange County Public Schools | 08.2016 - 01.2025
Led a high-risk elementary school to success, increasing student performance and improving school culture
Supervised and managed four Exceptional Student programs, including 150+ staff
Led strategic planning initiatives to enhance educational outcomes and operational efficiency
Developed and implemented professional development programs for faculty to improve instructional practices to improve student performance
Fostered collaborative relationships with stakeholders to promote community engagement in school activities
Analyzed student performance data to inform curriculum adjustments and targeted intervention strategies
Senior Administrator
9 Years 10 Months
Orange County Public Schools | 09.2006 - 07.2016
Supported administrators throughout the district to ensure exemplary professional development, leading to high student performance
Provided staff development and ongoing support related to school improvement goals
Mentored staff members to maximize curriculum, instruction, and assessment, in alignment with district objectives
Instructional Support Teacher
6 Years 2 Months
Orange County Public Schools | 08.2001 - 10.2007
Developed and implemented instructional strategies and targeted interventions to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes
Led professional development related to instruction and strategic interventions
Collaborated with teachers and families to determine the need for screening and further support
Educational Coordinator
5 Years 4 Months
University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center | 06.1986 - 10.1991
Collaborated with hospital and clinic staff to support students in maintaining their progress in school, while receiving treatment for childhood cancer
Supported students, families, and school staff to maximize school attendance and performance
Exceptional Student Education Teacher
3 Years 9 Months
Klein I.S.D. | 09.1982 - 06.1986
Developed and implemented lesson plans to maximize student engagement and achievement
Developed individualized education plans tailored to student needs
Implemented behavior management techniques to foster a positive classroom environment and improve student efficacy
Conducted assessments to monitor student progress and adjust teaching methods accordingly
Education
Ph.D. - Special Education Leadership
University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 12-2015
Master of Arts - Educational Leadership
Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, Arizona; Online | 05-2010
Master of Arts - Psychology
Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | 12-1991
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Miami University | Oxford, OH | 05-1982
Skills
Community engagement
Student
family
staff
and community collaboration and relationship-building
Employee performance evaluations
Staff management
Training and mentoring
Data analysis
Professional development
Timeline
Principal
Orange County Public Schools
08.2016 - 01.2025Read More
Senior Administrator
Orange County Public Schools
09.2006 - 07.2016Read More
Instructional Support Teacher
Orange County Public Schools
08.2001 - 10.2007Read More
Educational Coordinator
University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
06.1986 - 10.1991Read More
Exceptional Student Education Teacher
Klein I.S.D.
09.1982 - 06.1986Read More
University of Central Florida
Ph.D. from Special Education Leadership
Read More
Grand Canyon University
Master of Arts from Educational Leadership
Read More
Sam Houston State University
Master of Arts from Psychology
Read More
Miami University
Bachelor of Science from Special Education
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Orange County Public Schools, Principal of the Year Finalist
Recognized by district leaders as an exceptional leader who values student success and wellness