Kara Ozbun
Adel,Iowa
Summary
I am a dedicated special education professional with experience in both direct instruction and coaching educators. Skilled in developing IEPs and implementing evidence-based strategies, I help students with diverse learning needs achieve their academic, social, and emotional goals. As a consultant and coach, I collaborate with teachers to adapt instructional approaches, address individual student challenges, and create inclusive learning environments. My passion lies in empowering both students and educators to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
SPECIAL EDUCATION CONSULTANT
Heartland AEA
Johnston, IOWA
08.2018 - Current
- Provided guidance to teachers on how to differentiate instruction in order to meet the individual needs of each student
- Coached teachers on evidence-based instructional strategies that are effective with students who have disabilities
- Evaluated students to determine their current level of performance and instructional needs in the areas of academics, behavior, and adaptive behavior
- Created behavior plans based on Applied Behavior Analysis principles that promote positive behaviors and reduce challenging behaviors
- Developed IEPs for students with special needs, including assessing student progress and developing appropriate modifications
- Collaborated with teachers, administrators, counselors and parents to ensure the most beneficial educational experience for all students
- Evaluated data from assessments, teacher input, parent input, and other sources to develop interventions tailored to the individual needs of each student
- Conducted observations of classrooms to provide feedback on teaching strategies and classroom management techniques
- Facilitated meetings between school personnel and families in order to build partnerships that support a positive learning environment
- Attended professional development activities to learn best practices in teaching
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Waukee CSD - Prairieview
Waukee, IOWA
08.2015 - 06.2018
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs
- Facilitated annual IEP meetings with parents, teachers, and administrators
- Utilized assistive technology with non-verbal students to build their communication skills
- Evaluated student performance using formative and summative assessments
- Utilized a variety of teaching strategies to support the learning of diverse learners
- Adapted curriculum content as needed based on individual student abilities
- Cultivated relationships with families by providing guidance and resources
- Implemented positive behavior management techniques to foster an effective learning environment
- Maintained records on each student's progress throughout the school year
Teacher and Behavior Coach
Perry CSD - Perry Elementary
Perry, IOWA
08.2001 - 06.2015
- Utilized a range of teaching methods to enhance both individual and group engagement.
- Assessed student academic development, created and maintained progress reports for parents.
- Managed parent and teacher conferences to discuss student progress, behavior issues or any other concerns regarding student development
- Created lesson plans that incorporated educational standards and differentiated instruction for students with diverse needs
- Collaborated with the grade-level team to implement best practices for the success of all learners within the classroom
- Utilized formal and informal assessment strategies to monitor student progress
- Developed and implemented classroom management strategies to ensure a safe, positive learning environment
- Attended and participated in professional development activities and conferences to enhance skill and job knowledge
- Provided social skills instruction to students identified as needing a social skill intervention
- Collaborated with general education teachers to develop behavior interventions for students who were struggling in the area of behavior, but not yet identified for special education
- Facilitated monthly meetings with the behavior response team to review student behavior plans and provide updates to response plans if applicable
Education
MASTER OF ARTS (M.A.) - SPECIAL EDUCATION
Morningside College
Sioux City, IA, US05.2016
BACHELOR OF ARTS (B.A.) - EARLY CHILDHOOD AND ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA, US12.2000
Skills
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Behavioral Evaluation Skills
- Knowledge of Assistive Technologies
- Coaching for Educators
- Proficient in Eligibility Determination
- Individualized Education Plan expertise
- Positive reinforcement methods
- Data-driven decision-making
- Experience utilizing the ACHIEVE system to write evaluation reports and IEPs
References
References available upon request
Timeline
SPECIAL EDUCATION CONSULTANT
Heartland AEA
08.2018 - Current
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Waukee CSD - Prairieview
08.2015 - 06.2018
Teacher and Behavior Coach
Perry CSD - Perry Elementary
08.2001 - 06.2015
MASTER OF ARTS (M.A.) - SPECIAL EDUCATION
Morningside College
BACHELOR OF ARTS (B.A.) - EARLY CHILDHOOD AND ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
University of Northern Iowa
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