Kelli Galadza
Hahira
Summary
"I use a data-driven, collaborative approach to improve student outcomes and schoolwide initiatives. By aligning instruction, PBIS, MTSS, and co-teaching practices with assessment and transition data, I ensure equitable access to rigorous learning, meaningful transition goals, and measurable growth for all students, particularly identified subgroups. I also contribute to district- and school-level initiatives, including the implementation of Georgia’s new ELA standards, to strengthen instructional quality and system-wide improvement.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
8th Grade ELA Content Lead (Gen Ed.)/Special Education Teacher
Hahira Middle School
08.2022 - Current
- Served on the School Improvement Team (SIT), where my collaborative teaching practices were highlighted as an exemplar of an effective co-teaching model. Recognized for strong instructional alignment and partnership with my co-teacher, I was designated as a flagship classroom for co-teaching, with colleagues invited to observe our practice. This model has been leveraged to strengthen instructional delivery, support subgroup growth on the GMAS, and foster improved outcomes for students with disabilities within both our classroom and the schoolwide learning community.
- I contributed to the development and implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) strategies at Hahira Middle School, using discipline data to guide decision-making and practice. These efforts supported a 27% reduction in office referrals and a 20% decrease in the number of students impacted between 2023–2024 and 2024–2025, resulting in fewer disruptions, increased classroom engagement, and improved instructional time. This experience illustrates my ability to leverage data-driven interventions to positively influence school culture and align behavioral supports with schoolwide improvement goals.
- I have been actively involved from the inception of the Lowndes County ELA Implementation Team, contributing to the development and rollout of Georgia’s new ELA standards for the 2025–2026 school year. As a special education teacher, I bring a critical perspective on subgroup performance, which aligns directly with Hahira Middle School’s primary school improvement goal of increasing growth among identified subgroups. My expertise has informed both district-level planning and school-based implementation, ensuring that the standards are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all learners.
- Partnered with administration and the Special Education Department to strengthen both the MTSS process and transition planning. I facilitated goal setting, progress monitoring, and intervention adjustments while implementing new procedures to align CTAE goals with student assessments. This dual focus ensured compliance, improved transition goals, and created clearer academic and career pathways for students, while also enhancing schoolwide supports for subgroup growth.
Education
Master of Arts in Teaching - Special Education General Curriculum
University of West Georgia
05.2025
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
Broward College
01.2017
Skills
- Data-Driven Decision Making – Using discipline, assessment, and MTSS data to guide instructional and behavioral interventions
- Collaborative Leadership – Partnering with co-teachers, administrators, and coordinators to implement school- and district-level initiatives
- Special Education Expertise – Aligning IEPs, CTAE goals, and transition planning to meet compliance and student growth objectives
- PBIS & MTSS Implementation – Developing and monitoring behavior and academic support systems for positive student outcomes
- Instructional Alignment & Co-Teaching – Modeling exemplary co-teaching practices to improve subgroup growth and classroom engagement
- Program Development & School Improvement – Contributing to district-level standards implementation and school improvement initiatives to enhance equity and achievement
Certification
- Georgia Clear Renewable Teaching Certificate, Special Education General Curriculum (P-12)
- Sp Ed Language Arts Cognitive (P-5, 4-8)
- Sp Ed Reading Cognitive (P-5, 4-8)
- Sp Ed Social Science (P-5, 4-8)
Leadership & Involvement
- Member, School Improvement Team (2023-Present)
- Chair, Special Education Professional Learning Community (2024-Present)
- PBIS Committee Member (2023-Present)
- ELA Content Lead, 2025-
Timeline
8th Grade ELA Content Lead (Gen Ed.)/Special Education Teacher
Hahira Middle School
08.2022 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
Broward College
Master of Arts in Teaching - Special Education General Curriculum
University of West Georgia
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