Kelly Ford
Kokomo,IN
Summary
Dedicated and accomplished professional with over 24 years of experience in Special Education. Known for dependability, strong leadership, and exceptional communication skills. Highly skilled planner, problem-solver, and analytical leader with a strong attention to detail and sound judgment. Focused on driving continuous improvement initiatives in assessing complex situations, identifying solutions, and implementing effective strategies. Known for decisive, practical, and strategic leadership in both operations and team management. Committed to achieve organizational goals while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Coordinator and EL Coordinator
Goodwill Education Initiatives
01.2017 - Current
- Provided high-quality individualized education programs for students, empowering them to reach their goals.
- Served as the Teacher of Record for all students eligible for services under IDEA and Section 504.
- Planned, developed, and implemented IEPs and 504 Plans for individual students, assessing needs and developing goals, services, and supports accordingly.
- Assessed students eligible for Language Minority services and developed Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs) and Accommodation Plan.
- Monitored student progress through data collection and reporting, ensuring timely and accurate documentation.
- Met deadlines efficiently and effectively to maintain compliance with regulatory standards.
- Communicated effectively with staff about student needs while maintaining confidentiality.
- Developed and delivered necessary professional development opportunities for staff, addressing relevant topics and improving instructional practices.
- Initiated opportunities for community connections for students through planning, organizing, and participating in an onsite Transition Fair.
- Contributed as a member of the school's site-based leadership team, collaborating with colleagues to support school-wide initiatives and improvements.
Special Education Teacher
Western Middle School & Northeast Middle School
08.1998 - 01.2015
- Developed and implemented Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students receiving special education services.
- Scheduled and attended case conferences, prepared and completed necessary documents, reviewed and interpreted evaluation results, and conducted observations and functional behavior assessments.
- Conducted progress monitoring and data collection to assess the needs of individuals and develop goals accordingly.
- Worked collectively with special education teachers, instructional aides, and other related services personnel to develop schedules and responsibilities.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to develop positive learning opportunities for students mainstreamed in their classrooms.
- Communicated effectively with parents/caregivers to establish connections between home and school, fostering a supportive environment for student success.
- Contributed as a member of the school's site-based management team, participating in decision-making processes and supporting school-wide initiatives.
Education
Master of Education -
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, INBachelor of Science - Special Education
Indiana University Bloomington
Bloomington, INSkills
- Data-driven decision-making
- Collaborative Leadership
- Time Management
- Communication
- Organization
- Team Work
- Experience
- Problem-Solving
- Adaptability
Timeline
Special Education Coordinator and EL Coordinator
Goodwill Education Initiatives
01.2017 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Western Middle School & Northeast Middle School
08.1998 - 01.2015
Master of Education -
Indiana Wesleyan University
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Indiana University Bloomington
Similar Profiles
Milan El HakimMilan El Hakim
ESP Facilitator Team Leader & Law Facilitator at Centre of Initiatives in Education, Carleton UniversityESP Facilitator Team Leader & Law Facilitator at Centre of Initiatives in Education, Carleton University
JOSEPH R. GRADILLASJOSEPH R. GRADILLAS
Coordinator, Administrative Services and Office Facilities at CENIC, The Corporation for Education Network InitiativesCoordinator, Administrative Services and Office Facilities at CENIC, The Corporation for Education Network Initiatives
Brian MohanBrian Mohan
Community support worker at Autism InitiativesCommunity support worker at Autism Initiatives
Clarissa KepnerClarissa Kepner
Student Outreach Coordinator at IUK Career and Accessibilities OfficeStudent Outreach Coordinator at IUK Career and Accessibilities Office
David SchmittDavid Schmitt
737 Captain at American Airlines737 Captain at American Airlines