Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Darlene Levine

Long Beach,California

Summary

Program Specialist with extensive experience in Special Education within the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District (PVPUSD). Adept at facilitating IEP meetings involving advocates and attorneys, ensuring compliance and collaboration for optimal student outcomes. An expert in developing and implementing inclusive educational programs that promote equity and access for all students, you collaborate closely with staff, students, families, and community agencies to foster environments where every student can thrive. Skilled in observing, consulting, and assisting special education teachers to achieve mutually agreed-upon goals, with a strong focus on implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) frameworks. Proven ability to lead professional development initiatives and serve as a team leader in curriculum and program development. Maintains detailed records and liaises effectively with community agencies and non-public schools. Demonstrates strong interpersonal and communication skills, underpinned by a belief in the potential of every child to learn and succeed. Committed to ongoing professional growth and the application of innovative strategies to support diverse learning needs. Supports day-to-day program operations with expertise in records management and resource coordination. Skillfully meets diverse needs and addresses issues to maintain efficiency and program outreach. Demonstrated success in building long-lasting relationships. Identifies the best course of action for given scenarios. Confident in handling tasks independently and in teams with a highly organized approach to work.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

PROGRAM SPECIALIST

Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District
08.2023 - Current
  • Facilitate IEP meetings involving advocates and attorneys, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and promoting effective collaboration to optimize student outcomes.

5TH GRADE TEACHER

Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District
08.2015 - 06.2023
  • Taught students subject-specific material, learning strategies, and social skills.

RESOURCE TEACHER

RANCHO VISTA ELEMENTARY
08.2013 - 06.2015
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.

RESOURCE TEACHER

POINT VICENTE ELEMENTARY
08.2011 - 06.2013
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.

RESOURCE TEACHER

PALOS VERDES INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
09.2010 - 06.2011
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.

Education

Preliminary Administrative Services Credential -

University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA

Master of Science, Curriculum and Instruction -

Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT

Bachelor of Arts, Liberal Studies and Minor in Child Development -

California State Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA

Skills

  • Mentor for South Bay Induction Program, providing guidance and support to new teachers for the past 7 years
  • English Language Learner (ELL) Lead at Rancho Vista, offering expertise and assistance in supporting ELL students
  • Actively engaged as a member of the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) committee, advocating for the needs and interests of students, families, and educators within the community
  • Experienced in teaching Extended School Year (ESY), providing specialized instruction and support
  • Active member of the Leadership Committee, contributing to decision-making processes and collaborative initiatives
  • Served as a member of the textbook adoption committee for science and language arts, ensuring the selection of appropriate instructional materials
  • Successfully implemented Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) for induction candidates, fostering collaborative growth and enhancing instructional practices
  • Led professional development sessions on Thinking Maps and Inclusion in Special Education, equipping educators with valuable strategies and tools to enhance instruction and support diverse learners
  • Led the 5th grade general education team at Rancho Vista to develop a problem of practice Afterward, we analyzed data to drive instruction, established a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and implemented Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies in the classrooms to enhance student outcomes

Timeline

PROGRAM SPECIALIST

Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District
08.2023 - Current

5TH GRADE TEACHER

Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District
08.2015 - 06.2023

RESOURCE TEACHER

RANCHO VISTA ELEMENTARY
08.2013 - 06.2015

RESOURCE TEACHER

POINT VICENTE ELEMENTARY
08.2011 - 06.2013

RESOURCE TEACHER

PALOS VERDES INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
09.2010 - 06.2011

Preliminary Administrative Services Credential -

University of California, Irvine

Master of Science, Curriculum and Instruction -

Western Governors University

Bachelor of Arts, Liberal Studies and Minor in Child Development -

California State Dominguez Hills
Darlene Levine