DONNA FERRELL
Brooklyn,NY
Summary
Detail-oriented educational leader with over seven years of experience managing academic compliance and special education systems. Skilled in student data management, high-stakes testing coordination, and platform administration across multiple systems, including PowerSchool, SESIS, and SchoolRunner. Proven ability to improve workflow efficiency, ensure compliance with federal and state mandates, and support instructional excellence through strategic data analysis and operations oversight. Strong communicator and collaborator who builds systems that support students, staff, and schools.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Dean of Special Education
Coney Island Prep Upper Elementary School
Brooklyn, NY
07.2022 - Current
- Designed and managed testing accommodations across three grade levels, including systems integration with Nextera, Great Minds, and Illuminate platforms.
- Oversaw NYSITELL and NYSESLAT testing logistics, including schedules, materials management, and test security protocols.
- Maintained accurate SESIS records, and supported compliance with IEP timelines, RSAs, and provider attendance tracking.
- Collaborated on project plans for mClass DIBELS, MAP, and other standardized assessments, including accommodations tracking, and translator scheduling.
- Supported data collection and compliance reporting needs related to MLL and IEP status, in coordination with the Academics teams.
- Trained special education staff and academic leaders to deliver professional development and build capacity for compliance-focused instructional practices.
Related Services Coordinator
Coney Island Prep
Brooklyn, NY
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Acted as the primary liaison between the Committee on Special Education (CSE), related services agencies, and all four Coney Island Prep campuses.
- Coordinated the scheduling and delivery of related services, including speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and counseling.
- Ensured timely communication and resolution of service-related issues across campuses and external agencies.
Special Education Teacher
Coney Island Prep Upper Elementary School
Brooklyn, NY
08.2021 - 07.2022
- Instructed and oversaw individualized education programs for 21 third-grade students in ELA and Math.
- Implemented customized teaching strategies for small groups and individual students, and monitored progress to inform instructional planning and RTI processes.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to deliver inclusive instruction for all students.
Special Education Teacher Case Manager
Dolores T. Aaron Academy
New Orleans, LA
07.2017 - 07.2021
- Maintained detailed IEP records and progress-monitoring systems to ensure data-informed instructional planning and compliance.
- Collaborated with families, external providers, and general education staff to align instructional strategies and services.
- Developed spreadsheets and trackers to support reporting, goal tracking, and case management across student cohorts.
- Led compliance processes for eligibility and reevaluation meetings, ensuring alignment with state timelines and documentation.
Operations Associate
Grand Isle Group
New Orleans, LA
02.2016 - 05.2017
- Contributed to the strategic expansion of K-12 charter and public school programs throughout the United States.
- Designed and maintained databases to support service provider assignments and school operational tracking systems.
Education
Special Education Leader Fellow 2019-2021 (Cohort 5) -
Special Education Leader Fellowship (SELF)
New Orleans, LAAlternative Teaching Certification 2017-2018 -
The New Teacher Project (TNTP) - TeachNOLA
New Orleans, LABachelor of Science - Digital Filmmaking - May 2015
Loyola University New Orleans
New Orleans, LASkills
- Student Data Systems and Reporting (PowerSchool, SESIS, SchoolRunner, ATS)
- High-Stakes Testing Administration (NYSITELL, NYSESLAT, MAP, DIBELS)
- Special Education Policy and IEP Compliance
- Project Management and Workflow Optimization
- Cross-Team Communication and Training
- Data Analysis and Tracker Development
Technical Skills
- Excel (Formulas, Pivot Tables, Data Cleaning)
- Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms)
- Illuminate DnA, SESIS, SchoolRunner, PowerSchool
- Nextera, Clever
- DataCamp (currently enrolled)
Accomplishments
NSNO 2019 Excellence in Teaching Award Nominee
ReNEW Schools 2018-2019 Feature Teacher: Excellence in Inclusion Instruction - 2nd Grade Wit & Wisdom
Timeline
Related Services Coordinator
Coney Island Prep
08.2023 - 06.2024
Dean of Special Education
Coney Island Prep Upper Elementary School
07.2022 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Coney Island Prep Upper Elementary School
08.2021 - 07.2022
Special Education Teacher Case Manager
Dolores T. Aaron Academy
07.2017 - 07.2021
Operations Associate
Grand Isle Group
02.2016 - 05.2017
Special Education Leader Fellow 2019-2021 (Cohort 5) -
Special Education Leader Fellowship (SELF)
Alternative Teaching Certification 2017-2018 -
The New Teacher Project (TNTP) - TeachNOLA
Bachelor of Science - Digital Filmmaking - May 2015
Loyola University New Orleans
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