Kathy Bahr
Angola,IN
Summary
Special Education Professional with strong expertise in developing and implementing individualized education plans. Proven track record of effective team collaboration and flexibility to meet evolving needs. Adept at fostering inclusive learning environments, managing case loads, and ensuring compliance with educational standards. Known for reliability, strong communication skills, and results-driven approach. Applied evidence-based strategies, fostering a more inclusive environment and significantly reducing behavioral issues. Skilled in building professional relationships, advocating for student needs, and enhancing staff capabilities through targeted training workshops.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Coordinator
MSD of Steuben County
06.2009 - 06.2025
- Applied evidence-based teaching methods specifically designed for students with disabilities, promoting increased engagement and comprehension across subjects; provided ongoing support and guidance to teachers in the implementation of strategies; advocated for appropriate resources and supports necessary for students to succeed academically and socially.
- Facilitated IEP meetings by using family-centered, strength-based approach; participated in multidisciplinary team meetings focused on identifying unique strengths and challenges faced by each child while developing effective solutions.
- Collaborated with teachers, parents, and school administrators to conduct behavioral assessments and implement intervention plans; led team in creating more inclusive school environment, which resulted in significant decrease in student behavioral issues.
- Organized professional development workshops focused on special education topics, increasing staff knowledge and expertise in the field.
- Developed strong relationships with parents, caregivers, teachers, administrators, and outside service providers to support student progress both in school and at home.
Behavior and Autism Consultant
MSD of Steuben County
07.2006 - 06.2009
- Evaluated district needs and expectations, establishing clear goals and means to measure progress.
- Enhanced communication among team members to foster collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to successfully deliver comprehensive solutions for students.
- Designed tailored training programs for employees at various levels within the district, boosting overall skillsets.
- Developed student/teacher/parent relationships through regular check-ins and updates on behavioral and academic progress.
Special Education Teacher and Team Leader
MSD of Steuben County
08.1987 - 06.2006
- Developed and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support individual academic success and personal growth.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners; modified/accommodated general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies; taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs in general education and resource room settings.
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, teaching staff, and administrators maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress; cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies; conducted functional behavior assessments and designed positive behavior intervention plans.
Education
Director of Exceptional Needs - Special Education Administration
Indiana University
Bloomington, IN12-2008
Master of Science - Special Education - Mild Interventions
University of Saint Francis
Ft. Wayne, IN08-2001
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FLSkills
- Collaborative leadership
- Expertise in special education legal frameworks
- Skilled in behavior analysis techniques
- Behavior management strategies
- Social skills development
- Approaches to sensory integration
- Inclusion strategies
- Proficient in building professional relationships
- Attention to detail; technical troubleshooting
Accomplishments
- Superintendent's Cabinet
- Supervised Team of 26 Special Educators
- Provided Professional Development to Administrators, Teachers and Paraprofessionals across the district
- Liaison between MSD of Steuben County and Northeast Indiana Special Education Cooperative
- Ensured compliant data for state reporting and audits
- During 16 years as District Administrator, there were ZERO Complaints or Due Process Hearings
Affiliations
- Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education Professional Development Committee
- Council for Exceptional Children
- Indiana and Steuben County Autism Leaders
- Indiana Behavior Cohort
- Indiana Transition Cohort
Timeline
Special Education Coordinator
MSD of Steuben County
06.2009 - 06.2025
Behavior and Autism Consultant
MSD of Steuben County
07.2006 - 06.2009
Special Education Teacher and Team Leader
MSD of Steuben County
08.1987 - 06.2006
Director of Exceptional Needs - Special Education Administration
Indiana University
Master of Science - Special Education - Mild Interventions
University of Saint Francis
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
University of North Florida