Actively contributed to a Professional Learning Community (PLC) by sharing strategies, analyzing data, and implementing innovative practices to support a culture of shared accountability and collective responsibility for student learning.
Served as a Special Education Team Leader for multiple years, cultivating collaboration among administrators, educators, and specialists, and recently redesigned a data tracking tool and process to support a special education PLC, driving informed decision-making and continuous improvement
Supported the implementation of a school-wide improvement plan by contributing to strategic planning sessions, collaborating with administrators and educators, and supporting the integration of innovative instructional strategies to enhance student outcomes
Initial member of the School Climate Committee; developed targeted interview questions, analyzed feedback, and supported strategic planning to address school climate and culture concerns, thereby enhancing the overall student experience and fostering a positive educational environment
Supported district administrators in evaluating and selecting research-based special education curricula in order to ensure that all special education teachers have high-quality, evidence-based materials
Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs)and maintained detailed documentation and confidential records, ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements
Actively contributed as an MTSS team member by identifying student needs, setting intervention goals, supporting staff with tiered interventions, and evaluating outcomes
Participated as a member of the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) team, collaborating to develop Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and assess their effectiveness
Acted as a case manager by coordinating services among related service providers, paraprofessionals, and other support staff
Director of Special Education- Internship
Kildeer Countryside 96
08.2020 - 08.2021
Contributed to an internal audit of IEP records to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the district and verify compliance with state and federal regulations
Developed a district-wide IEP process checklist that guides case managers through initial evaluations, re-evaluations, and annual reviews, ensuring standardized procedures and enhanced consistency throughout the IEP process
Observed and provided input during the drafting and finalization of the IDEA Part B Grant, securing essential funding and aligning initiatives with federal guidelines
Shadowed and learned the prioritization and management of special education budgets to optimize resource allocation and maintain fiscal accountability
Assisted in the coordination of Extended School Year (ESY) programs to provide continuity of services for eligible students
Observed and provided input during staff recruitment, interviews, and hiring processes to build and maintain a highly qualified special education team
Assisted in maintaining detailed, confidential records and documentation, reinforcing adherence to state and federal requirements
Supported the development and implementation of training initiatives for staff, enhancing knowledge and skills in special education practices
Special Education Teacher
Skokie District 73.5
08.2013 - 08.2020
Taught grades 3-5 in resource, instructional, self-contained behavior, and Autism classrooms
Conducted comprehensive assessments, including Play Based Assessments, for Early Childhood Intervention, guiding early diagnosis and intervention strategies
Led a team of special education staff for three years, enhancing communication with administration, streamlining processes, and implementing key initiatives to improve service delivery
Collaborated in a co-teaching model for grade-level Science and Social Studies, integrating special education practices into general education
Founded and directed the Student Leadership Program, promoting leadership skills among special education students
Served as Enrichment Coordinator, overseeing the development and execution of enrichment programs for diverse learners
Presented at professional conferences on critical thinking and the integration of computer science in special education
Crisis Counselor
Quantum Learning Network
06.2012 - 07.2018
Oversaw and managed all staff (30+) to ensure adherence to program policies and procedures
Enforced and upheld program rules and regulations to maintain a safe and structured environment
Developed and implemented crisis intervention strategies to handle emergency situations
Conducted regular staff meetings to discuss camper progress, address issues, and provide training
Documented and reported incidents and resolutions to ensure proper record-keeping and follow-up
Provided emotional support and guidance to campers (100+) and staff, helping them navigate personal and social challenges
Education
Administrative Endorsement - Director of Special Education
Northern Illinois University
2021
Masters - Advanced Special Education Practices
Northern Illinois University
2021
Endorsement - Teacher Leadership
National Louis
2018
Masters - School Social Work
Loyola University Chicago
2013
Bachelors - Special Education & Elementary Education
Bradley University
2011
Certifications
Wilson® Dyslexia Practitioner
Quantum Learning Educator
Lindamood-Bell
Google CS First
Early Childhood Endorsement
Timeline
Director of Special Education- Internship
Kildeer Countryside 96
08.2020 - 08.2021
Special Education Teacher
Kildeer Countryside 96
08.2020 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Skokie District 73.5
08.2013 - 08.2020
Crisis Counselor
Quantum Learning Network
06.2012 - 07.2018
Administrative Endorsement - Director of Special Education
Northern Illinois University
Masters - Advanced Special Education Practices
Northern Illinois University
Endorsement - Teacher Leadership
National Louis
Masters - School Social Work
Loyola University Chicago
Bachelors - Special Education & Elementary Education
Special Education Teacher at Ivy Hall Elementary School - Kildeer-Countryside School District 96Special Education Teacher at Ivy Hall Elementary School - Kildeer-Countryside School District 96
Curriculum Development Specialist - Social Studies at Kildeer Countryside School District 96Curriculum Development Specialist - Social Studies at Kildeer Countryside School District 96
Special Education Teacher/Emotional Support Classroom/ Special Education Teacher/Therapeutic Classroom/Special Education Teacher Learning Support and Emotional Teacher at PITTSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOLSSpecial Education Teacher/Emotional Support Classroom/ Special Education Teacher/Therapeutic Classroom/Special Education Teacher Learning Support and Emotional Teacher at PITTSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) and Special Education Teacher Support Services(SETTS) at Bilingual Care Inc, New York Therapy Placement Services (NYTPS), TEAM ESTEEM, Access to SuccessSpecial Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) and Special Education Teacher Support Services(SETTS) at Bilingual Care Inc, New York Therapy Placement Services (NYTPS), TEAM ESTEEM, Access to Success