Karen Dorgan
Thornton,CO
Summary
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher with a proven track who is skilled in developing individualized education plans and fostering inclusive environments. I incorporate sensory integration techniques, collaborate, and enhance student outcomes through tailored interventions and strong teamwork. Committed to empowering diverse learners and engaging families in the educational process.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Adams 12 Five Star School District
08.2022 - Current
- Developed individualized education plans (IEPs) to meet unique needs of students with disabilities.
- Implemented evidence-based teaching strategies to enhance learning outcomes for diverse learners.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess student progress and adjust instructional methods.
- Conducted regular assessments to monitor student performance and inform instructional adjustments.
- Supported inclusion efforts by differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of students with special needs.
- Engaged families through regular communication, fostering partnerships in supporting student development.
- Facilitated inclusive classroom environments that promote social interaction and peer relationships.
Early Childhood Special Educator
Brighton27J School Distict
08.2012 - 05.2023
- Developed individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to diverse learning needs of students.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance educational strategies and support services.
- Implemented evidence-based interventions, promoting skill development in communication and socialization.
- Monitored student progress through assessments, adapting teaching methods accordingly for optimal outcomes.
- Facilitated small group instruction for differentiated learning opportunities, addressing various skill levels and learning styles.
- Enhanced student learning outcomes by implementing individualized education plans and tailored interventions for children with special needs.
- Engaged students with specialized play and educational activities to boost learning.
Early Childhood Special Educator
Weld County School District 6
08.2009 - 05.2012
- Trained staff on best practices for supporting children with special needs in inclusive settings.
- Facilitated workshops for parents, providing resources and strategies for effective home support.
- Monitored student progress closely using both formal and informal assessment tools, adjusting instructional approaches as needed to ensure success.
- Integrated play-based learning techniques to promote cognitive development and social skills in young children.
- Increased parent involvement in their child''s education through regular communication, progress updates, and collaborative goal setting.
- Prepared, scheduled and led IEPs to provide right help to meet child's present needs.
Early Intervention Specialist
Nationwide Children's Hospital
03.2003 - 08.2009
- Developed and implemented individualized intervention plans for children with developmental delays.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess children's needs and progress.
- Trained families on effective techniques to support child development at home.
- Conducted regular evaluations to adjust strategies and ensure optimal outcomes.
- Supported families in navigating complex systems of care by offering information on available resources and facilitating connections with appropriate providers.
- Advocated for children''s needs within various settings such as schools or community programs to promote inclusion and accessibility of services.
- Facilitated smooth transitions for children from early intervention programs into school settings by collaborating closely with educational teams.
Early Childhood Educator
Oregon State University
01.2000 - 06.2001
- Designed and implemented engaging lesson plans to foster early childhood development.
- Developed individualized learning strategies tailored to diverse student needs and abilities.
- Facilitated positive interactions among children, enhancing social skills and emotional intelligence.
- Mentored junior educators, providing guidance on classroom management techniques and best practices.
- Collaborated with parents to support children's educational progress and address concerns.
Early Childhood Educator
Montana State University
09.1995 - 12.1999
- Conducted assessments to evaluate student progress and adapt teaching methods accordingly.
- Organized age-appropriate activities that promote cognitive, physical, and emotional growth in children.
- Maintained and fostered positive and constructive interactions with staff, families, and children.
- Boosted children''s social skills development through group projects and collaborative games.
- Fostered creativity in the classroom through art projects, dramatic play, storytelling exercises, and other imaginative pursuits.
- Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
Education
Master of Science - Special Education And Teaching
Portland State University
Portland, OR12-2002
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama, AL06-1992
Skills
- Individualized education plans
- Sensory integration techniques
- Teamwork and cooperation
- Inclusive teaching practices
Timeline
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Adams 12 Five Star School District
08.2022 - Current
Early Childhood Special Educator
Brighton27J School Distict
08.2012 - 05.2023
Early Childhood Special Educator
Weld County School District 6
08.2009 - 05.2012
Early Intervention Specialist
Nationwide Children's Hospital
03.2003 - 08.2009
Early Childhood Educator
Oregon State University
01.2000 - 06.2001
Early Childhood Educator
Montana State University
09.1995 - 12.1999
Master of Science - Special Education And Teaching
Portland State University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Auburn University