Special education professional and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with expertise in developing legally compliant IEPs. Strong collaboration skills with families, outside providers, and educators to enhance student support. Proficient in problem-solving and adapting strategies for diverse learners, resulting in improved educational outcomes.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
SECEP-Chesapeake/Virginia Beach/Suffolk
09.2011 - Current
Facilitated communication between family members, caregivers, teachers, therapists, physicians, and other professionals involved in a student's IEP.
Utilized effective problem-solving skills when responding quickly and appropriately to challenging situations within the school setting.
Created data collection systems to track progress toward IEP goals.
Developed visual supports such as schedules, cues, flashcards, and other visuals to help clients understand instructions more effectively.
Provided consultation and training services to families and other professionals regarding best practices in ABA intervention methods.
Implemented evidence-based treatments according to current research standards for best practice in ABA therapy services.
Participated in IEP meetings and provided feedback on student performance.
Principal
SECEP-Chesapeake/Virginia Beach/Suffolk
07.2008 - Current
Supervised 11 -17 classrooms annually, with approximately 60-100 students, across classrooms housed within the comprehensive schools.
Oversaw compliance with state and federal laws related to special education programs.
Designed professional development activities that focused on improving teacher performance (i.e., Virginia Literacy Act, Community-Based Instruction, Communication 101/102, etc.).
Worked closely with division personnel to develop individualized learning plans tailored to meet each student's needs, and support student reintegration.
Managed the budgeting process for school operations.
Assessed current teaching methods and techniques used by paraprofessionals in order to provide feedback on their effectiveness.
Facilitated communication between teachers, administrators, families and other stakeholders in order to promote collaboration among all participants in the educational process.
Reviewed data in order to track academic progress over time.
Created an environment where all students feel valued, regardless of their background or ability.
Provided coaching sessions for teachers on best practices for classroom organization and management as well as effective instructional strategies.
Directed the implementation of division and SECEP initiatives.
Cultivated strong relationships with parents, students and members of the community to ensure a safe learning environment.
Served as a liaison between school administration, local government agencies and external organizations involved in providing educational services.
Directed school human resources including hiring, training, policy enforcement, and legal compliance.
Frequently assisted in classrooms to evaluate teacher instructional techniques as part of the annual evaluation cycle.
Education Specialist
SECEP-Norfolk
04.2008 - 07.2011
Assisted teachers in the creation of lesson plans based on curriculum standards and objectives.
Modeled how to engage students through activities designed to promote active learning experiences.
Assisted teachers in developing behavior management plans for students exhibiting challenging behaviors.
Attended IEP meetings, parent conferences, and professional development workshops.
Collaborated with various stakeholders to ensure best practices were being followed.
Provided guidance and support for general education staff in understanding the unique needs of special education students.
Adapted materials as needed to accommodate individual student needs while adhering to established guidelines.
Monitored student performance and progress data.
Special Education Teacher
Wake County Public Schools
Knightdale, NC
08.2007 - 04.2008
Developed Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans in both the inclusive and self-contained settings.
Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
Special Education Teacher
SECEP-Virginia Beach
08.2003 - 06.2007
Developed individual educational plans designed to promote educational, physical and social development for students at Salem High School and Pembroke Elementary School.
Cultivated classroom environment focused on building independence, fostering both social and academic development.
Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
Offered hands-on learning opportunities and community-based instruction to build important life skills.
Collaborated with other educational personnel within my school building to provide inclusive activities or programs for children with disabilities.
Teamed with general education teachers to plan and implement curriculum, state and district-wide assessments.
Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events.
Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
School Community Trainer
SECEP-Virginia Beach
05.2002 - 06.2003
Collaborated with special education departments at both sending and receiving schools to ensure smooth transitions for students with special needs or disabilities.
Provided transition support to students and families during the transition process from elementary to middle school.
Conducted follow up visits with former transitioning students after they have been placed in new programs or settings.
Education
Education Specialist - Education Administration
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
08-2013
Master of Science - Special Education
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
12-2007
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
College of William And Mary
Williamsburg, VA
05-2001
Affiliations
Vacation Bible School Director for Oak Grove Baptist Church
Middle School/High School Youth Group Leader
Parent Volunteer 4H Virginia Beach
Certification
Education Specialist in Administration
Masters in Special Education (Endorsements in Emotional Disabilities and Intellectual Disabilities)
Certified in Handle with Care Crisis Management Training
CPR/First Aid/AED Certification
Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analysis
Trained in Human Trafficking Awareness, Tittle IX, Bloodborne Pathogens, Seizure Awareness