Joseph Patrick Norton
Doha
Summary
Dedicated and experienced educational leader specializing in special education, with 17 years of expertise in fostering inclusive and positive school climates, selecting curricula grounded in evidence-based strategies, and overseeing successful program implementation. Passionate about developing innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of students with autism. Collaborative, adaptable, and committed to advancing educational practice in the field of special education.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Curriculum Coordinator
Renad Academy
08.2019 - Current
- Evaluated the effectiveness of curriculum implementation by analyzing student performance data and identifying areas for improvement.
- Provided coaching and mentoring to teachers, nurturing their growth as professionals and contributing to a positive school culture.
- Assisted with teacher recruitment process by participating in interviews and reviewing applicant qualifications against program requirements.
- Facilitated professional development workshops, keeping staff up-to-date with educational best practices.
- Managed resources effectively by overseeing budgeting processes and allocating materials according to needs.
- Coordinated and led department leads to establish best practice of autism in the school.
- Led a school-wide team to obtain National Autistic Society Accreditation.
- Established strong relationships with stakeholders, including parents, community members, and external organizations to support student success.
Lead Teacher
Renad Academy
08.2018 - 07.2019
- In this role I worked as an instructional coach for teachers and assistants
- With teachers, I use cognitive coaching to develop their teaching strategies, as well as their own individual growth as professionals
- For assistants, I am responsible for modeling and coaching in the usage of Discrete Trial Training, and in areas of TEACCH
- I was responsible for the coordination and implementation of Professional Learning Communities for staff
- Additionally, I have worked to develop curriculum and a member of the School Leadership Team
- I was also responsible for working in collaboration with Qatar Academy Sidra to create an inclusion classroom of Renad Students being in a mainstream school
- In addition, I have worked to create a peer mentor group with QA Sidra students mentoring students from Renad
Elementary Autism Teacher
Renad Academy
07.2016 - 06.2018
- During my time as a teacher at Renad Academy, I taught kindergarten and first grade
- I was responsible for daily planning and instruction, as well as leading my team of three instructional assistants
- I developed learning plans for each student, and worked in collaboration with the school psychologist to develop behavior plans
- I was selected as Teacher of the Year for the 2016-2017 school year
Teacher Trainer and Consultant
Kuching Autistic Association
07.2013 - 06.2016
- My main role at Kuching Autistic Association was to develop curriculum, conduct small groups in the development of reading, and social skills, implement behavioral intervention plans, and conducting weekly trainings for teachers in best practices for children diagnosed with Autism
- I was also responsible for conducting parent trainings, as well as community outreach in autism awareness
- Promoted a culture of ongoing learning within the education community through professional development opportunities tailored to individual needs.
- Enhanced professional development by conducting teacher training workshops and seminars.
Intermediate-Grades 3-5, Autism Teacher
Lowry Elementary School
08.2009 - 06.2013
- In charge of daily instruction for students aged 8-12 years old
- Case Manager of student’s Individual Education Plan’s, responsible for daily instruction of curriculum, data collection, taking students out for community-based instruction, and behavior management of students
- Started Puzzle Friends in 2011
- This is a program where students are grouped with typical peers from the general education setting for social interaction
- Selected in 2011 to serve on curriculum committee to develop curriculum for students in the Exceptional Students Education program
- Nominated in 2012 for Excellence in Action Award
- This is an award for an individual that has made an impact in a person’s life living with a disability
- Nominated in 2013 for the CEC Teacher of the year award
One to One Instructor
The Trellis School
04.2009 - 08.2009
- In charge of daily instruction of two students throughout the day
- Trained in the use of Verbal Behavior (VB), behavioral management, PECs, and teaching in the Natural Environment
ESY Teacher’s Assistant
Gorman’s Crossing Elementary School
07.2008 - 08.2008
- Assisted teacher in daily instruction of a class for students in an Alternative Living Skills classroom
Education
Master of Science - Educational Technology
SUNY Buffalo
New York05.2020
Graduate Certificate - Autism Spectrum Disorders
Indian River State College
12.2011
Master of Science - Social Sciences
Frostburg State University
Frostburg, MD05.2009
Skills
- Special education
- Autism Education
- Alternative Assessment
- Curriculum Design
- Educational Technology
- Educational Leadership
Certification and Awards
- Certified to teach in the State of Florida: Exceptional Student Education, Elementary Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ESOL, Prekindergarten/Primary Education.
- Certified in Pictorial Exchange Communication Systems (PECs) and Team Teach.
- Currently enrolled in the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) to finish by 09/30/25.
- Certificate of Achievement for Exceptional Contribution to Collaboration across Schools, Qatar Foundation, 2018-2019.
- Teacher of the Year Award at Renad Academy, 2016-2017.
- Nominated for the Council of Exceptional Children Teacher of the Year Award in 2013.
- Nominated for Excellence in Action Award for Hillsborough County Public Schools in 2012.
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 11/25/87
- Marital Status: Married
- Two children, aged 7 and 10
Timeline
Curriculum Coordinator
Renad Academy
08.2019 - Current
Lead Teacher
Renad Academy
08.2018 - 07.2019
Elementary Autism Teacher
Renad Academy
07.2016 - 06.2018
Teacher Trainer and Consultant
Kuching Autistic Association
07.2013 - 06.2016
Intermediate-Grades 3-5, Autism Teacher
Lowry Elementary School
08.2009 - 06.2013
One to One Instructor
The Trellis School
04.2009 - 08.2009
ESY Teacher’s Assistant
Gorman’s Crossing Elementary School
07.2008 - 08.2008
Master of Science - Educational Technology
SUNY Buffalo
Graduate Certificate - Autism Spectrum Disorders
Indian River State College
Master of Science - Social Sciences
Frostburg State University
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