Debbie Zielinski
Keyport,NJ
Summary
Dedicated and results-driven professional with extensive experience in special services, adoption, and professional training. Committed to building up the next generation of social workers through education and mentoring, with emphasis on using faith-based values and social work values to develop professionals grounded in a Biblical worldview.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Social Worker/Special Services Coordinator
Calvary Christian High School
Old Bridge, NJ
09.2022 - Current
- Coordinated special services for students with diverse learning needs.
- Facilitated communication and meetings between students, parents, faculty members, and other professionals.
- Coordinated and implemented professional development activities related to special education topics, both in person and virtually.
- Evaluated student progress and adjusted services accordingly.
- Researched new evidence-based intervention strategies that could be used by teachers when working with students who have disabilities and learning challenges.
- Participated in team meetings focused on developing Individual Service Plans, both in person and virtually.
- Monitored the implementation of ISPs within classrooms, and provided feedback as needed.
- Trained and supported teachers on strategies for accommodating or modifying instruction in order to meet the needs of all students.
- Provided guidance and resources to teachers, parents, and administrators regarding special education regulations.
- Provided and coordinated support services, such as counseling or tutoring, for identified students who are at risk academically or socially.
- Prepared students for later educational experiences by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and persevere with challenging tasks.
- Provided counseling and support to students facing personal challenges.
- Provide mentoring for alumni students in college and graduate social work programs.
Regional Administrator
Sunny Days Early Childhood Services
Manalapan, NJ
01.2003 - Current
- Coordinated services for children within the Early Intervention system, in compliance with the Individual Family Service Plan.
- Oversaw compliance with regulatory standards in state and federal early intervention services.
- Planned and led professional development activities for direct service professionals (i.e., social workers, teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists).
- Coordinated training programs for staff members to enhance their skills and knowledge base.
- Recommended changes in operations or staffing levels, based on an analysis of available resources.
- Conducted regular meetings with staff to discuss operational issues, performance goals, and strategies for improvement.
- Responded promptly to family concerns or inquiries regarding regional services.
- Served as a liaison between the corporate agency office and the direct service staff throughout the state.
- Represented the organization at conferences and meetings throughout the state.
- Collaborated closely with other regional administrators to share best practices.
- Presented resources and opportunities to staff for further professional development.
Adoption Social Worker
A Loving Choice Adoption Agency
Shrewsbury, New Jersey
09.2009 - 08.2024
- Facilitated comprehensive assessments for prospective adoptive families.
- Provided guidance and support throughout the adoption process.
- Coordinated home visits to evaluate family readiness for adoption.
- Educated clients on their rights and responsibilities under state law regarding adoptions.
- Assessed family dynamics, financial stability, and other factors related to the adoption process.
- Prepared documents required for legal proceedings related to adoptions.
- Collaborated with attorneys, social workers, and healthcare professionals involved in the adoption process.
- Monitored placement of adopted children in their homes after they have been placed there.
Education
Master of Arts - Social Work
Monmouth University
West Long Branch, NJ12-2002
Skills
- Professional development coordination and implementation
- Curriculum development
- In-person and virtual training and service delivery
- Effective communication
- Conflict resolution
- Team collaboration
- Critical thinking
- Differentiated instruction
- Student counseling
- Mentoring students
- Evidence-based interventions
- Compliance oversight
- Mentoring and coaching
- Advanced Microsoft Office 365 experience
Affiliations
- Director of parent-teacher partnership program
Certification
- Licensed Social Worker December 2002
Timeline
Social Worker/Special Services Coordinator
Calvary Christian High School
09.2022 - Current
Adoption Social Worker
A Loving Choice Adoption Agency
09.2009 - 08.2024
Regional Administrator
Sunny Days Early Childhood Services
01.2003 - Current
Master of Arts - Social Work
Monmouth University