Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Leslee Kennedy

Topeka

Summary

Dynamic Special Education Teacher with a proven track record at USD 372, adept at developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and fostering strong relationships with students and families. Skilled in differentiated instruction and positive behavior supports, I effectively motivate diverse learners to achieve their academic and personal goals.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Teacher

USD 372
08.2012 - Current
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
  • Monitored student progress closely, intervening proactively when necessary to ensure steady growth and achievement of learning goals.
  • Attended professional development workshops to stay current on best practices in special education teaching methodologies.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistency in enforcing rules.
  • Assessed student performance regularly using various evaluation tools, adjusting instructional strategies as needed.
  • Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, fostering a comprehensive learning experience.
  • Enhanced parent-teacher communication by conducting regular meetings and providing frequent progress updates.
  • Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
  • Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
  • Maintained accurate and complete student records to prepare reports on children and activities.

Special Education Teacher

USD 501
01.2011 - 05.2014
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.

Education

Master of Arts - Adaptive Special Education

Washburn University
Topeka, KS
05-2011

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS
12-2000

Skills

  • Differentiated instruction
  • Individual education plans IEPs
  • Small group instruction
  • Positive behavior supports
  • Executive functioning support
  • Inclusion strategies
  • Math interventions
  • Emotional disorders
  • Parent-teacher communication
  • Progress monitoring
  • Functional behavior assessments
  • Life skills instruction

Timeline

Special Education Teacher

USD 372
08.2012 - Current

Special Education Teacher

USD 501
01.2011 - 05.2014

Master of Arts - Adaptive Special Education

Washburn University

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

University of Kansas