Versatile and dedicated advocate who focuses on individual needs of students. A flexible, empathetic, and compassionate candidate who thrives on enhancing student success. A professional, who possesses high organizational abilities, as well as outstanding interpersonal and communication skills to develop excellent rapport with students, families, staff, and community members.
Student services professional with proven track record in managing student support programs and improving student outcomes. Known for collaborative approach and reliability in meeting changing needs. Demonstrates proficiency in conflict resolution and program development.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Student Services
Pecatonica CUSD #321
Pecatonica, Illinois
08.2023 - Current
An advocate for students, working to create and promote school programs that not only ensure that students are welcomed, supported, and encouraged, but also that the academic program and related experiences are reflective of the students, their interests and current/future needs
Collaborate with principals, general education teachers, and district leadership to align student services with academic goals and district improvement plans.
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff including special education teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers, and support personnel to ensure effective delivery of services
Develop, implement, and monitor policies and procedures to maintain compliance with IDEA, Section 504, ADA, and state education regulations
Analyze student performance data to identify trends, allocate resources, and drive evidence-based interventions that improve student outcomes
Build strong relationships with families by providing clear communication, resources, and support to foster collaboration and trust
Train staff and administrators on best practices in inclusion, behavior management, crisis response, and equity in student services
Lead district-wide initiatives to promote safe, inclusive, and supportive school environments for all students
High School Principal
West Carroll CUSD #314
West Carroll, Illinois
01.2023 - 03.2023
Oversaw a team of 30+ teachers, school counselors, office personnel, and facilities personnel for a high school with almost 300 students
Evaluated teaching performance, and ensure compliance with school policies and quality standards
Refined curriculum using student-centered learning modalities and implement SAT prep programs
Developed and implement intervention strategies for students with learning disabilities, behavioral disorders, and academic struggles
Interfaced with classroom teachers and parents to discuss academic performance, behavioral conduct, and disciplinary measures
Managed daily operations and annual budget
Lead collaborative meetings to develop education programs and school curriculum, and provided coaching and mentorship to drive professional development, enhance teaching performance, and build inclusive learning environments for students
Dean of Students
Freeport School District #145
Freeport, Illinois
08.2019 - 01.2023
Assisted teachers, parents and students in a team oriented environment to resolve non-academic student issues in the school, such as behavior and attendance problems
Arranged meetings with parents, teachers, support services personnel and students regarding matters of disciplinary problems
Provided mentoring and/or direct intervention 1:1 or small groups within the home, school, and community to students and consultation services to parents
Reported to administrators, teachers, school attendance staff, parents, and students relative to issues affecting student performance
Counseled individual students as needed, making appropriate referrals for testing, guidance or other services; and recommends programs for students to assist them with behavioral problems
Instructed and advises students regarding their responsibility to adhere to school rules and policies, to foster a safe school environment, and to respect other individuals and property
Assisted in the administration of the In-School Suspension Program and co-curricular activities
Coordinated with community and government agencies relating to drug and alcohol abuse, truancy, and other conduct
Assisted in developing policies and practices, collect, analyze and graphs discipline/behavior to assure building security and safety
Assisted in the preparation of student expulsion hearing
Took all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities
Maintained accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy, and administrative regulation
Assists the administration in implementing all policies and rules governing student life and conduct.
Assisted in the supervision of students (cafeteria, before/after school, hallways, co-curriculum activities, etc.)
Special Education Teacher
Freeport School District #145
Freeport, Illinois
01.2013 - 01.2019
Adapted middle school curriculum to teach basic reading and math skills, while incorporating the Common Core Standards
Daily collaboration and communication between general education teachers and myself
Worked with students individually and in small group to enhance learning success
Integrated technology in the classroom through the use of projectors, iPads, and computers
Taught students to advocate for themselves as they move toward academic, social, and career goals
Created and implemented individualized education plans and behavior intervention plans
Was an active participant in CSMS’s PBIS committee, Problem Solving Committee, and Spring Fling Committee
Served, in previous year, as building mentor for other special education teachers
Resource in the building for other special education teachers
Immediate supervisor to 3+ paraprofessionals
Special Education Teacher & First Shift Supervisor
Willowglen Academy
Freeport, Illinois
01.2011 - 01.2013
Helped developmentally disabled and mentally ill students reach their educational goals
Designed and implemented curriculum and multi sensory lesson plans for different subjects
Informed parents about their children's progress and participation in the formulation of educational programs
Created individualized educational plans for each student with goals and objectives
Handled behavioral problems of students and foster positive behavioral patterns
Provided training to students with more severe disabilities like cooking, self care and shopping
Supervised 20+ paraprofessionals daily
Provided a structured safe environment for students in a residential treatment behavioral health facility
Participated in annual trainings to keep up to date on topics including: OSHA, HIPPA, nutrition, and workplace safety
Education
Master of Arts - Educational Leadership
American College of Education
12.2021
Master of Arts - Elementary Education With LBS1 Endorsement
University of Phoenix
05.2011
Bachelors of Arts - Public Relations & Communications
Monmouth College
05.2007
Skills
Collaborative Problem-solving
Multicultural competence
Crisis management
Team Leader
Timeline
Director of Student Services
Pecatonica CUSD #321
08.2023 - Current
High School Principal
West Carroll CUSD #314
01.2023 - 03.2023
Dean of Students
Freeport School District #145
08.2019 - 01.2023
Special Education Teacher
Freeport School District #145
01.2013 - 01.2019
Special Education Teacher & First Shift Supervisor
Willowglen Academy
01.2011 - 01.2013
Master of Arts - Elementary Education With LBS1 Endorsement
University of Phoenix
Bachelors of Arts - Public Relations & Communications