Dynamic Special Educator with 14 years of experience in developing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) for diverse student populations, including those with behavioral and emotional challenges. Proven track record of fostering inclusive learning environments through collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, families, and community resources. Adept in crisis management and de-escalation techniques to ensure student safety and well-being. Strong leadership skills demonstrated through mentoring new educators and leading professional development initiatives. Committed to promoting holistic youth development and advocating for equitable access to educational and behavioral services. Seeking to leverage educational expertise and a passion for youth advocacy in a Director of Youth Residential Services role to drive positive outcomes for at-risk youth.
• Develop and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to each student's strengths, needs, and goals. Deliver differentiated instruction in core subjects (e.g., reading, writing, math) based on student learning levels, using specialized instructional techniques and tools.
• Use various strategies to support students with diverse disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral disorders, ADHD).
• Incorporate culturally relevant materials and instructional strategies that reflect the diverse backgrounds of students in an urban environment.
• Use assessment data to track student progress, modify instructional plans, and ensure students are meeting academic and behavioral goals.
• Create a positive, structured, and inclusive learning environment where students feel supported and safe. Use de-escalation techniques and positive behavioral interventions to manage student behavior and promote a culture of respect and responsibility.
Participate in IEP meetings, providing input on student progress and collaborating with parents, caregivers, and multidisciplinary teams (e.g., speech therapists, occupational therapists, social workers).
• Serve as an advocate for students with disabilities, ensuring they have the necessary accommodations, services, and resources to succeed in both academic and non-academic settings.
• Communicate regularly with families, providing updates on student progress, challenges, and strategies for supporting learning at home.
• Develop and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to each student's strengths, needs, and goals. Deliver differentiated instruction in core subjects (e.g., reading, writing, math) based on student learning levels, using specialized instructional techniques and tools.
• Use various strategies to support students with diverse disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral disorders, ADHD).
• Incorporate culturally relevant materials and instructional strategies that reflect the diverse backgrounds of students in an urban environment.
• Create a positive, structured, and inclusive learning environment where students feel supported and safe. Use de-escalation techniques and positive behavioral interventions to manage student behavior and promote a culture of respect and responsibility.
• Collaborate with school counselors, behavior specialists, and other support staff to provide comprehensive behavior support services.
Build relationships with students, families, and the broader school community, demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic diversity present in an urban school setting.
• Implement culturally responsive teaching practices that validate and affirm the identities and experiences of students from marginalized backgrounds.
• Provide direct supervision, guidance, and support to behavioral specialists, direct care staff, and other treatment team members. Conduct regular team meetings and one-on-one supervision sessions to review case progress, address challenges, and ensure staff are meeting clinical and organizational standards.
• Lead training initiatives for staff on behavioral interventions, trauma-informed care, de-escalation techniques, and crisis intervention.
• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities to behavioral specialists and staff to improve the quality of services offered.
• Act as a resource for staff in responding to crisis situations, ensuring that appropriate de-escalation techniques and interventions are utilized. • Oversee the use of behavior management programs, ensuring consistency, fairness, and alignment with each youth's treatment goals.
• Provide hands-on support during emergencies, acting as the lead in crisis intervention situations when needed.