Detail-oriented psychology research rater and special education teacher with 15+ years of experience in educational and clinical settings. Expertise in administering psychological assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to enhance student outcomes. Proven leadership in mentoring educators and implementing evidence-based interventions, ensuring compliance with regulations and fostering inclusive environments. Committed to advancing mental health and educational practices through data-driven strategies and continuous professional development. Willing to relocate: Anywhere Authorized to work in the US for any employer
Hi, I’m
Cynthia Spencer
Myrtle Beach,SC
Summary
Overview
41
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
A&E Research
Psychology Research Rater
03.2022 - 12.2024
Job overview
- Administered and interpreted psychological assessments to participants during various clinical phases(either 1, 2 or 3) to assess safety and efficacy of a new drug
- Evaluated cognitive abilities, personality traits, and personality disorders of participants
- Conducted psychological assessments to determine participants eligibility for the research
- Assessed risk factors for violence, self-harm, and suicide through thorough evaluation of participant's history and current presenting symptoms
- Continued to administer and monitor participants throughout the duration and completion of the clinical research trial
- Carefully monitored participants for changes in health, documenting any side effects throughout the research trial and analyzed the collected data through intakes and observations to determine efficacy and safety of the new medicine/drug
- Submitted all data for each participant after the completion of the clinical trial to regulatory agencies
Horry County Schools
Special Education Teacher (Inclusion)
08.2008 - 08.2017
Job overview
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations
- Collaborated with general education teachers to modify curriculum and instructional materials to meet the unique learning needs of students
- Differentiated instruction based on student abilities and learning styles utilizing a variety of teaching strategies
- Conducted ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instructional strategies accordingly
- Collaborated with other members of the school team, such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists, to develop comprehensive intervention plans for students requiring additional services
- Provided one-on-one or small group instruction for students who required specialized attention or remediation in specific academic areas
- Served as an advocate for students with special needs during Individual Education Program (IEP) meetings by presenting assessment data, progress reports, and recommendations for accommodations/modifications
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance, behavior incidents/interventions, academic progress/achievements using electronic systems/software provided by the school district/organization
- Fostered a supportive classroom environment that promoted inclusivity and respect among all students regardless of their abilities/disabilities
- Participated in professional development opportunities, workshops, and conferences to stay updated on the latest research-based practices in special education
- Developed positive relationships with students' families by maintaining open lines of communication and actively involving them in their child's educational journey
- Supported students during standardized testing by providing accommodations/modifications as outlined in their IEPs/504 plans
- Served as a resource person for colleagues regarding best practices in inclusive education and differentiated instruction techniques
- Exhibited strong knowledge of federal laws/regulations related to special education, including Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- Mentored new/special education teachers by sharing expertise, resources, and effective instructional strategies tailored to meet individual student needs
Horry County Schools
Autism Specialist
09.2007 - 08.2008
Job overview
- Developed and implemented comprehensive treatment plans based on the specific needs of each child, utilizing evidence-based interventions such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists to ensure coordinated care for clients
- Monitored progress regularly through data collection and analysis, adjusting treatment strategies as needed to maximize outcomes
- Worked closely with parents/caregivers to provide training and support in implementing therapeutic techniques at home
- Implemented behavior intervention plans (BIPs) designed to address challenging behaviors using positive reinforcement techniques
- Utilized assistive technology tools such as communication devices or apps to enhance language development in non-verbal individuals with autism
- Participated in professional development workshops/conferences regularly to stay updated on the latest research findings in autism therapy
- Provided guidance and support during school meetings or Individualized Education Program (IEP) planning
Kanawha County Board of Education
Special Educator; Autism Consultant
08.1983 - 08.2007
Job overview
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
- Coordinated specialized services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and counseling for students requiring additional support.
- Delivered differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom setting.
- Attended professional development workshops to stay current on innovative teaching practices in special education settings.
- Served as a resource for other educators seeking information on specific disabilities or accommodations necessary to meet individual learner needs effectively.
- Supported the development of social skills in students through group activities and peer interactions.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to identify specific learning needs and inform instructional strategies.
- Facilitated positive behavior support systems to enhance classroom management and promote a conducive learning environment.
- Mentored new special education teachers by sharing best practices, providing feedback on lesson plans, and offering guidance on classroom management techniques.
- Enhanced individualized learning plans by incorporating student interests and developing customized activities.
- Monitored ongoing performance of students through regular evaluations, adjusting interventions as needed to address gaps in understanding or skill acquisition.
- Aligned curriculum standards with instructional objectives, ensuring that all students had opportunities to achieve academic success within their capabilities.
- Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Kanawha County Schools
Curriculum Specialist
08.2002 - 08.2007
Job overview
- Provided guidance and support to general education teachers regarding strategies for inclusion of students with special needs within the mainstream classroom setting.
- Developed and implemented curriculum plans for multiple grade levels, ensuring alignment with state standards and educational objectives
- Collaborated with teachers to design instructional materials and resources that supported differentiated instruction and met the needs of diverse learners
- Conducted regular assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of curriculum implementation and made necessary adjustments based on data analysis
- Led professional development workshops for teachers on best practices in curriculum delivery, assessment strategies, and instructional technology integration
- Coordinated textbook adoption process, reviewing options, soliciting input from stakeholders, and making recommendations for final selection
- Collaborated with special education teachers to develop accommodations and modifications within the curriculum framework for students with diverse learning needs
- Researched emerging trends in education pedagogy and incorporated innovative teaching methods into the curriculum design process
- Provided ongoing support to teachers by answering questions related to lesson planning, instructional strategies, or resource selection within the established curriculum framework
- Collaborated with school administrators to develop and implement school-wide initiatives that aligned with the curriculum goals
Vecchio & Vecchio
Counselor
05.2002 - 08.2007
Job overview
- Facilitated group therapy sessions for diverse populations, focusing on topics such as anxiety management, stress reduction, and interpersonal relationships
- Utilized evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to support clients in achieving their mental health goals
- Supported adolescents in navigating challenges related to identity development, peer pressure management, and academic stress through individual counseling sessions
- Maintained accurate and confidential client records in compliance with ethical guidelines and legal regulations
Office of Professional Preparations; WV State Dept of Education
Coordinator for Teacher Certification
01.1996 - 08.2002
Job overview
- Teacher Recruitment
- Teacher Recognition
- Teacher of the Year Selection Commitee
- Educator Certification
- Educator Services
- Initial Certification and License
- Certificate Renewal
- Endorsements
Education
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown, WV
Master's Degree from Counseling
05.2002
University Overview
Marshall UniversityHuntington, WV
Masters Degree from Special Education
12.1987
University Overview
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown, WV
Bachelor's degree from Elementary Education
05.1982
University Overview
Skills
- Consultant (10 years)
- Curriculum (10 years)
- Teacher coaching (10 years)
- Mediation (10 years)
- Teaching
- Time management (10 years)
- Leadership (10 years)
- Special education (10 years)
Certification
- Masters in Counseling May 2002 to Present
- Autism December 1990 to Present
- Specialization in Learning Disabilities K-12 December 1987 to Present
- Behavior Disorders K-12 December 1987 to Present
- Specialialization in Behavior Disorders K-12 December 1987 to Present
- Masters Degree in Special Education December 1987 to Present
- Bachelor of Science Elementary Education May 1982 to Present
- Special Education K-12 May 1982 to Present
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
As a Curriculum Coorfinator, coached and mentored teachers to raise test scores within 2 years which removed 14 schools from probation.
Developed a County wide special education plan that revamped the department and removed a total of 24 schools from probation within 4 years.
Coached and implemented a county wide reading program for all grade levels of students with disabilities which enabled all students to advance in reading skills.
Timeline
Psychology Research Rater
A&E Research
03.2022 - 12.2024
Special Education Teacher (Inclusion)
Horry County Schools
08.2008 - 08.2017
Autism Specialist
Horry County Schools
09.2007 - 08.2008
Curriculum Specialist
Kanawha County Schools
08.2002 - 08.2007
Counselor
Vecchio & Vecchio
05.2002 - 08.2007
Coordinator for Teacher Certification
Office of Professional Preparations; WV State Dept of Education
01.1996 - 08.2002
Special Educator; Autism Consultant
Kanawha County Board of Education
08.1983 - 08.2007
West Virginia University
Master's Degree from Counseling
Marshall University
Masters Degree from Special Education
West Virginia University
Bachelor's degree from Elementary Education
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