Dedicated and compassionate Special Education Teacher with over a decade of experience supporting diverse learners across grades 3–8 in inclusive settings. Expertise in behavior analysis, IEP development, co-teaching, curriculum adaptation, and paraprofessional mentorship. Brings strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and student-first oriented mindset. Committed to fostering inclusive learning environments and empowering students with a range of abilities.
Hi, I’m
Lauren A. Blackshere
Reseda,CA
Summary
Overview
12
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
STARS Academy
K-6 Humanities Teacher
08.2024 - Current
Job overview
- Elementary school Humanities teacher, grades K-6.
- Developed the elementary humanities curriculum.
- Developed and implemented variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse needs of students.
- Built a variety of formative and summative assessments to measure student progress.
- Managed classroom efficiently by establishing clear expectations and routines while maintaining a safe, respectful learning environment for all students.
- Supported students in development of skills and strategies to become independent and successful learners.
- Developed and implemented behavior management plans to address student issues.
- Supported development of individualized education plans for students with special needs.
- Developed strong relationships with students and parents, fostering a positive learning environment in the classroom.
- Co-lead an SEL curriculum.
- Collaborated and planned with partner teachers.
CHIME Charter Institute
Teacher on Special Assignment
06.2023 - 06.2024
Job overview
- Lead Welligent compliance and IEP process monitoring.
- Developed and manage paraprofessional training and mentorship programs.
- Supported onboarding of new special education teachers.
- Conducted Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs).
- Facilitated team meetings and collaboration across middle school special education.
- Provided strategic planning, scheduling, and leadership within the special education department.
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Mentored new teachers, sharing best practices and providing guidance to help them adapt to their new roles successfully.
CHIME Charter Institute
Special Education Teacher (Grades 3–4 & 6–8)
10.2015 - 06.2024
Job overview
- Managed caseloads of up to 18 students with mild to severe disabilities in an inclusive setting.
- Developed individualized programs and IEPs with annual goals.
- Designed curriculum materials for special education students, facilitating inclusive learning.
- Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student had an equal opportunity for success.
- Co-taught general education classes, lead behavior and academic interventions.
- Trained and supervised paraprofessionals and collaborated with families and service providers.
- Integrated assistive technology and adapted curriculum for students with visual, motor, and other physical disabilities.
- Created transition plans and built routines supporting social-emotional and vocational development.
- Participated in teaching a weekly paraprofessional training class.
CHIME Charter Institute
Special Education Department Modification Specialist & Paraprofessional
08.2013 - 10.2015
Job overview
- Modified and adapted curriculum per IEPs and 504 plans.
- Collected academic and behavioral data to inform instruction.
- Provided individualized student support and general education assistance.
- Regularly trained and supervised paraprofessionals.
- Assisted in teaching a paraprofessional training class.
Education
UCLA ExtensionLos Angeles
Education Specialist Instruction Credential
08-2024
University Overview
valid through 9/1/2029
National UniversitySan Diego, CA
Master of Science from Special Education Mild to Moderate Disabilities
01.2020
University Overview
National UniversitySan Diego, CA
Master of Arts from Teaching Specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis
01.2017
University Overview
California State University, NorthridgeNorthridge, CA
Bachelor of Science from Psychology
01.2012
University Overview
Minor in Family Studies
Skills
- Proficient in Google Workspace, Welligent and Canva
- Behavior management, ABA, and FBA
- Experienced with AAC devices and assistive technology
- Strong background in modifying curriculum for visual, motor, and cognitive accessibility
- Expert in fostering peer interactions and social-emotional learning
- Collaborative learning
- Cultural awareness
- Reading comprehension
- Verbal and written communication
- Positive role model and mentor
- Small group instruction and differentiated instruction
- Student rapport
Certification
CPI Training – Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Certification, November 2023
Timeline
K-6 Humanities Teacher
STARS Academy
08.2024 - Current
Teacher on Special Assignment
CHIME Charter Institute
06.2023 - 06.2024
Special Education Teacher (Grades 3–4 & 6–8)
CHIME Charter Institute
10.2015 - 06.2024
Special Education Department Modification Specialist & Paraprofessional
CHIME Charter Institute
08.2013 - 10.2015
UCLA Extension
Education Specialist Instruction Credential
National University
Master of Science from Special Education Mild to Moderate Disabilities
National University
Master of Arts from Teaching Specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis
California State University, Northridge
Bachelor of Science from Psychology
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