Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Volunteer/Recreational Activities
Timeline
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Debra Townsend

Hopewell,New Jersey

Summary

Special Education Teacher and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with expertise in applied behavior analysis, functional behavioral assessments, parent, and staff training. Demonstrated success in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement strategies that enhance student engagement and behavior. Achievements include measurable improvements in student outcomes through targeted interventions.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Mercer County Special Services School District
Hamilton, New Jersey
08.2017 - 10.2025
  • Developed individualized behavior intervention plans for students with diverse needs.
  • Conducted functional behavior assessments
  • Trained staff on best practices in applied behavior analysis methodologies.
  • Monitored student progress and adjusted interventions as needed for effectiveness.
  • Facilitated parent meetings to discuss student behavior and intervention outcomes.
  • Documented behavioral data to track trends and inform future planning.
  • Collaborated with parents and caregivers in developing strategies for implementing ABA techniques at home or in the community setting.
  • Facilitated communication between family members, caregivers, teachers, therapists, physicians and other professionals involved in a client's care plan.
  • Implemented evidence-based treatments according to current research standards for best practice in ABA therapy services.
  • 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, schools, and other professionals regarding best practices in ABA intervention methods.
  • Attended IEP meetings and provided feedback on student performance when requested by school personnel.

Special Education Teacher

Mercer County Special Services School District
Hamilton , NJ
06.1998 - 10.2025
  • Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance student learning experiences.
  • Adapted instructional materials to accommodate varying learning styles and abilities.
  • Monitored student progress through assessments and feedback sessions.
  • Facilitated communication between parents and educators regarding student development.
  • Organized inclusive classroom activities to promote social interaction among students.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
  • Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
  • Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
  • Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
  • Conducted assessments of student performance and provided feedback to parents.
  • Collaborated closely with related service providers, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers.
  • Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
  • Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
  • Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
  • Advocated for needs of the students with disabilities.
  • Established positive relationships with students and their families.
  • Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system..
  • Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
  • Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
  • Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices.
  • Offered hands-on learning opportunities to develop life skills.
  • Enhanced students' physical, behavioral and social skills through class activities.

Education

Master of Science - Criminal Justice

Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA
05-2016

Bachelor of Science - Special Education

The College of New Jersey
Trenton, NJ
05-1998

Skills

  • Functional behavioral assessment
  • Data collection methods
  • Positive behavior support
  • Visual support design
  • Classroom management
  • Parent and caregiver support and training
  • Performance supervision and feedback
  • Crisis management training
  • Social skills development
  • Staff training and support

Volunteer/Recreational Activities

  • Raising puppy for The Seeing Eye
  • Early morning exercise class
  • Farming: Chickens, Gardening, Goats

Timeline

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Mercer County Special Services School District
08.2017 - 10.2025

Special Education Teacher

Mercer County Special Services School District
06.1998 - 10.2025

Master of Science - Criminal Justice

Saint Joseph's University

Bachelor of Science - Special Education

The College of New Jersey

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