Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Donna Richards

Groton,CT

Summary

Accomplished Special Education Teacher at Pond Hill Elementary School in Wallingford, excelling in differentiated instruction and classroom management. Spearheaded the development of IEPs, enhancing academic success and personal growth for diverse learners. Demonstrated expertise in fostering collaborative relationships and implementing evidence-based teaching methodologies, significantly improving student behavior and educational outcomes. Led the Early Intervention Process at Pond Hill School for many years.

Overview

36
36
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Teacher

Wallingford Board of Education
08.2001 - 06.2022
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
  • Collaborated with teachers and therapists to develop individualized educational plans for each student, ensuring optimal progress.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.

Special Education Teacher

City Of Hartford BOE
08.1986 - 06.2001
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.

Education

Master of Science - Elementary Reading And Math

Walden University
Minneapolis, MN
2012

Master of Arts - Remedial Reading

Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT
1993

Bachelor of Arts - Special Education, Dual Certification

St. Joseph College
West Hartford, CT
05.1986

Skills

  • Differentiated Instruction
  • Classroom Management
  • Individual Education Plans IEPs
  • Small Group Instruction

Timeline

Special Education Teacher

Wallingford Board of Education
08.2001 - 06.2022

Special Education Teacher

City Of Hartford BOE
08.1986 - 06.2001

Master of Science - Elementary Reading And Math

Walden University

Master of Arts - Remedial Reading

Central Connecticut State University

Bachelor of Arts - Special Education, Dual Certification

St. Joseph College
Donna Richards