Jessica Ahlers
Jeffers,Minnesota
Summary
Student-centered educational leader with extensive expertise in special education, instructional leadership, and systems-level problem solving. Proven ability to build strong relationships, establish trust quickly, and lead with clear, consistent communication. Skilled in supporting staff growth and improving student outcomes through data-driven practices while fostering inclusive school environments where all learners thrive. Experienced in MTSS, behavior systems, and compliance, with a strong commitment to collaboration, equity, and continuous improvement.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher, Admin Internship
Windom Public School District
Windom, MN
08.2024 - Current
- Designed and implemented a Setting III program, including development of curriculum, systems, and instructional structures to meet diverse student needs.
- Collaborated with administrators to analyze student data, strengthen MTSS systems, and guide instructional decisions.
- Lead and support school-wide initiatives, including problem solving teams, professional development, and PAC committee.
- Built strong relationships with students, staff, families, and community members.
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Implemented adaptive learning strategies to enhance student engagement and participation.
- Utilized assistive technology tools to support students' learning experiences.
Autism Program Director
Freeman School District
08.2022 - 12.2024
- Built and managed autism programs by aligning district needs with evidence-based practices.
- Supported educators through coaching and relationship-building efforts across multiple schools.
- Led training initiatives on ABA and sensory integration strategies.
- Managed budget allocations for program initiatives, ensuring resource optimization.
- Collaborated with faculty to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Analyzed program effectiveness through data-driven assessments and feedback mechanisms.
- Mentored team members for professional development, resulting in increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Interim Administrator
SWWC Service Cooperative
Windom, MN
01.2024 - 07.2024
- Directed school operations for 50+ students with IEPs, supervising all staff.
- Led behavior intervention programs and ensured IEP and IDEA compliance.
- Managed state/federal reporting (DIRS, assessments, compliance reports).
- Strengthened parent and community engagement and staff capacity.
- Streamlined document management processes, ensuring timely access to critical information.
- Assisted in budgeting and financial reporting, contributing to accurate fiscal oversight.
- Led team initiatives to improve internal communication and collaboration among stakeholders.
Alternate Assessment Coordinator
South Dakota Department of Education
05.2020 - 08.2022
- Managed statewide educational projects and collaborated with national partners (MSAA Cooperative).
- Directed stakeholder meetings to align state goals and monitor compliance.
- Facilitated director calls and served as regional liaison, advising schools on IDEA compliance and assessment practices.
- Developed training materials for educators on assessment tools and data interpretation.
- Coordinated statewide assessment administration, ensuring compliance with regulations and timelines.
- Analyzed assessment data to identify trends and inform instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to enhance assessment processes and improve student outcomes.
- Streamlined reporting procedures, enhancing accuracy and efficiency in data management systems.
Educational Specialist
Black Hills Special Services Cooperative
07.2019 - 05.2020
- Consulted with school districts to identify needs and deliver targeted special education support.
- Created and presented professional development, driving instructional improvement across the state.
- Served as a liaison between the school district and outside agencies to coordinate services for special needs students.
- Organized workshops and presentations for parents to increase involvement in their children''s education.
Special Education Teacher
Dell Rapids School District
Dell Rapids, SD
08.2015 - 06.2019
- Developed individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to student needs and learning goals.
- Implemented adaptive teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and participation.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to support student progress and behavioral challenges.
- Monitored and assessed student performance, adjusting instructional methods as necessary.
- Fostered positive relationships with parents, advocating for student needs and resources.
- Utilized data-driven approaches to track student advancement and inform instructional decisions.
Education
Ed.S - Educational Administration
Concordia University
St. Paul, MN03-2026
M.Ed. - Educational Admin
South Dakota State University
B.S. - Elem & Special Education
Dakota State University
Skills
- Licensed Educator (MN & SD) Level 4 with ASD
- Minnesota Administrative License (In progress of obtaining)
- Professional Crisis Management Instructor
- CPI Certified
- IEP & 504 Development IDEA Compliance
- Applied Behavior Analysis MTSS
- Data Analysis and School Improvement Planning
- MTSS Implementation
- Differentiated instruction
- Classroom management
Certification
CORE Online Language & Literacy Certified
Timeline
Special Education Teacher, Admin Internship
Windom Public School District
08.2024 - Current
Interim Administrator
SWWC Service Cooperative
01.2024 - 07.2024
Autism Program Director
Freeman School District
08.2022 - 12.2024
Alternate Assessment Coordinator
South Dakota Department of Education
05.2020 - 08.2022
Educational Specialist
Black Hills Special Services Cooperative
07.2019 - 05.2020
Special Education Teacher
Dell Rapids School District
08.2015 - 06.2019
M.Ed. - Educational Admin
South Dakota State University
B.S. - Elem & Special Education
Dakota State University
Ed.S - Educational Administration
Concordia University