Deborah Cunningham
Summary
Dynamic Special Education Teacher with a proven track record at Clark County School District, adept at developing individualized education plans and fostering inclusive environments. Skilled in implementing assistive technology and engaging parents effectively, enhancing student progress and behavior management. Committed to creating culturally responsive classrooms that celebrate diversity and promote academic success.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Clark County School District, CCSD
08.1992 - 09.2025
- Implemented behavior management strategies to support student learning and engagement.
- Monitored student progress and provided feedback to enhance educational outcomes.
- Adapted lesson plans and materials to meet diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Utilized assistive technology tools to facilitate learning for students with disabilities.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining consistent and open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, positive reinforcement strategies and individualized behavior plans.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching strategies.
- Organized parent engagement activities and community-based experiences that enriched students' understanding of real-world experiences and enabled them to generalize their skills in different environments.
- Integrated social skills training into curriculum, facilitating improved peer interactions and social integration.
- Fostered positive learning environment, reducing classroom disruptions through effective behavior management strategies.
- Enhanced communication skills in non-verbal students through integration of alternative and augmentative communication systems.
- Created culturally responsive classroom environment, acknowledging and celebrating diversity among students.
Education
Master of Science - Autism Spectrum Disorder
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZMaster of Science - Curriculum And Instruction
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NVBachelor of Science - Business Management
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NVSkills
- Tailored teaching methods to individual students' needs
- Proficient in managing classroom dynamics
- Development of individual educational plans
- Implementation of assistive technology
- Effective small group teaching
- Proficient in parent engagement
- Clear communication with parents
- Development of individualized behavior intervention plans
- Maintain data on students' goals and progress
Accomplishments
Nominated for CCSD Educator of the Year 2023-2024
Nominated for CCSD Educator of the Year 2024-2025
Adam S. Kutner Teacher of the Game 2024
Starlight Award Myrtle Tate Teacher of the Year 2025 Honoree
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Clark County School District, CCSD
08.1992 - 09.2025
Master of Science - Autism Spectrum Disorder
Grand Canyon University
Master of Science - Curriculum And Instruction
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
University of Nevada, Las Vegas