Elisa Taysom
Provo,Utah
Summary
Special Education Teacher with 17 years of experience providing exceptional education services to students with academic and behavioral challenges. Skilled in mentoring, training, and supervising special educators, paraeducators, and related service providers, ensuring cohesive teamwork and excellent service delivery. Committed to utilizing a strengths-based approach to mentorship to foster continuous improvement and deliver outstanding support in diverse special education settings.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher Leader
Provo School District
2023.07 - Current
- Provided expert coaching, mentorship, and professional development to a team of four special education teachers, fostering their growth and enhancing instructional practices.
- Successfully oversaw the delivery of special education services for a diverse student population of over 100 students, ensuring individualized support and meaningful educational access.
- Acted as a dedicated liaison and advocate for the special education department, effectively communicating with school and district administration to address the needs of students with disabilities.
- Maintained compliance records according to State and federal regulations.
- Skillfully managed high-conflict IEP meetings, navigating complex discussions and facilitating constructive resolutions.
Special Education Teacher
Canyons School District
2018.08 - 2023.05
- Recognized as Union Middle School Teacher of the Year 2022. Top 7 Finalist for Canyons District Teacher of the Year.
- Served as Special Education Team Leader, utilizing a strengths-based approach to mentor and coach team members, ensuring cohesive collaboration and excellent service delivery.
- Collected and analyzed data to make decisions that enhanced the classroom environment improve student outcomes.
- Evaluated math curriculums to ensure they aligned with Utah Core Standards and optimally addressed student IEP goals.
- Significantly improved student’s Reading Inventory Scores through exceptional implementation of district reading curriculum.
- Delivered comprehensive training to special and general education staff and teachers on accommodations, modifications, and fostering meaningful inclusion.
- Advocated and collaborated with administration and counselors to optimize student schedules and meet service minutes.
- Observed students during the MTSS and LRE processes and provided specific feedback for academic and behavioral concerns to teachers and administration.
Special Education Teacher
Adams 12 Five Star Schools – McElwain Elementary
2016.08 - 2018.05
- Student Support Needs (Severe/Profound)
- Successfully revitalized a special education classroom facing significant challenges, implementing effective strategies to improve the learning environment and student outcomes.
- Led of a team of special education teachers and related service providers, delivering high-quality education to an underserved population of students.
- Proactively obtained and integrated assistive technology into classroom to increase student engagement and success.
- Developed IEP’s that enhanced student’s academic, behavioral, and daily living skills.
- Developed and implemented classroom and individual behavioral plans to foster inclusion and keep students in their least restrictive environment.
Special Education Teacher
Provo School District
2006.08 - 2016.05
- Severe and profound needs, Elementary/Post-High.
- Developed and implemented effective behavioral plans resulting in a reduction of serious behaviors and improved student learning outcomes.
- Employed a range of instructional strategies to meet the diverse learning needs of students.
- Designed and delivered a comprehensive life-skills curriculum for Post-High School students, equipping them with essential skills for independent living.
- Collaborated with related service providers to ensure comprehensive support for students' educational access.
Special Education Facilitator
Provo School District
2006.08 - 2008.05
- Provided expert coaching, mentorship, and professional development to a team of four special education teachers, fostering their growth and enhancing instructional practices.
- Successfully oversaw the delivery of special education services for a diverse student population of over 60 students, ensuring individualized support and meaningful educational access.
- Acted as a dedicated liaison and advocate for the special education department, effectively communicating with school and district administration to address the needs of students with disabilities.
- Maintained compliance records according to State and federal regulations.
- Skillfully managed high-conflict IEP meetings, navigating complex discussions and facilitating constructive resolutions.
Education
Master of Arts - Curriculum And Instruction
University of Phoenix
2009
Endorsement - Special Education Severe/Profound
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT2005
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Utah Valley State College
2005
Skills
- Teacher Mentorship and Coaching
- IDEA Policies and Regulations
- Behavior Management
- Instructional Strategy and Implementation
- Student and Teacher Advocacy
- Data-based Decision Making
Timeline
Special Education Teacher Leader
Provo School District
2023.07 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Canyons School District
2018.08 - 2023.05
Special Education Teacher
Adams 12 Five Star Schools – McElwain Elementary
2016.08 - 2018.05
Special Education Teacher
Provo School District
2006.08 - 2016.05
Special Education Facilitator
Provo School District
2006.08 - 2008.05
Master of Arts - Curriculum And Instruction
University of Phoenix
Endorsement - Special Education Severe/Profound
Brigham Young University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Utah Valley State College
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