Dedicated educator with a commitment to creating safe, nurturing learning environments that enhance student development. Strong work ethic and adaptability drive success in challenging situations. Proven capability in mastering new skills and working independently to support educational goals.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Special Education Teacher
Rochester City School District
Rochester
09.2006 - Current
Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs.
Conducted assessments to track student progress and identify challenges.
Implemented behavior management strategies that improved student engagement and learning outcomes.
Created positive learning environments that promoted social-emotional growth and academic achievement for diverse learners.
Collaborated with general education teachers on differentiated instruction strategies to meet the needs of all learners.
Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
Coordinated support services for students with disabilities.
Collaborated with teachers to implement effective teaching strategies.
Facilitated communication between parents and educational staff regularly.
Advocated for resources, securing support that expanded educational opportunities for students with disabilities.
Participated in professional development activities related to special education best practices.
Served as a mentor for student-teachers entering the Special Education profession.
TOA & Intervention Prevention Teacher
Rochester City School District
Rochester
09.2017 - 06.2024
Lead Educator in the building for Really Great Reading
Turnkey's Really Great Reading programs to grade level teams 1-5
Implemented Blast and HD Word in whole class and small group settings
Demonstrated extensive knowledge of the Grouping Matrix platform through effective application in classrooms.
Assessed students utilizing the HD Word Skills Assessments book
Analyzed school/grade level data in order to organize/implement a school wide Walk to Intervention
Delivered targeted Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions, addressing specific student learning needs.
Developed and maintained Response to Intervention plans to address diverse student requirements
Collaborated with staff to enhance instructional strategies alongside General Education Teachers, improving student engagement and learning outcomes
Consulted and Advocated for students needing Special Education Services
Assessment Coordinator: NYS Exams, NWEA, i-Ready, CFAs, Really Great Reading, Pre and Post Assessments
Coordinated state test proctoring, scheduling, and administration grades 3-6 in ELA and Math, and Science
Support school administration with creating and implementing SCEP plans
Participated in multiple teams including CSE, Data, School Based Planning, and Instructional Leadership to improve educational outcomes.
Collaborated with grade level teachers, special education teachers, and other service providers
Created and Maintained Special Education professional documents and reports: IEPs, FBAs, BIPs, Progress Notes
Implemented IEPs and BIPs on a daily basis
Actively advocated for the needs and rights of students receiving Special Education Services to ensure appropriate support.
Implemented lessons in correlation with Common Core & NYS Next Generation Standards
Differentiated Instruction/small group setting
Managed and Supervised Teacher Aides, Paraprofessionals, and 1:1 Aides within my classroom
Facilitated professional development sessions for staff and parents on NWEA, NYS testing, and cultural relevance, fostering a more inclusive educational environment
Piloted Wonders Reading Program
Resource/Consultant Special Education Teacher
Rochester City School District
Rochester
09.2011 - 06.2019
Taught small groups of identified students according to their IEPs.
Assisted in implementing individualized education plans to address specific student needs.
Collaborated with educators to identify student needs and resources.
Provided guidance on special education services and support options.
Evaluated resource effectiveness by collecting and analyzing feedback from educators and students.
Developed and maintained resource databases to enhance staff access to instructional materials.
Managed cases for students with special needs
Education
Master of Science - Education, Inclusive Early Childhood Program
Nazareth College of Rochester
Rochester, New York
05-2013
Bachelor of Science - Inclusive Education, Childhood/Students with Disabilities
Roberts Wesleyan College
Rochester, New York
05-2006
Skills
Special education advocacy
Individualized education plans
Behavior management strategies
Progress assessments
Data analysis
Collaboration with educators
Resource coordination
Professional development organization
Affiliations
CSE Team
Data Team
School Based Planning Team
Instructional Leadership Team
Data Wise (Harvard) School Improvement Team
Problem Solving Team - MTSS
Certification
New York State Professional Certification: Inclusive Early Childhood (Birth – Gr. 2) Early Childhood Education (Birth – Gr. 2) Childhood Education (Gr. 1-6) Teaching Students with Disabilities at the Childhood Level (Gr. 1-6)
References
References and Letters of Recommendations Furnished Upon Request
Timeline
TOA & Intervention Prevention Teacher
Rochester City School District
09.2017 - 06.2024
Resource/Consultant Special Education Teacher
Rochester City School District
09.2011 - 06.2019
Lead Special Education Teacher
Rochester City School District
09.2006 - Current
Master of Science - Education, Inclusive Early Childhood Program
Nazareth College of Rochester
Bachelor of Science - Inclusive Education, Childhood/Students with Disabilities
Special Education Teacher - Autism Support (LEAD) at Chesapeake Public Schools - Deep Creek High SchoolSpecial Education Teacher - Autism Support (LEAD) at Chesapeake Public Schools - Deep Creek High School