Lori Althoff
East Berlin,PA
Summary
Results-driven and detail-oriented professional with over 31 years of experience supporting and guiding special needs and at-risk students within the public education system. Proven track record in fostering growth and development among college students pursuing degrees in education and related fields, while creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that enhance student success. Expertise in delivering high-quality educational content and engaging students through interactive teaching methods. Strong communication skills and critical thinking abilities foster a stimulating atmosphere conducive to learning. Committed to excellence in education, with a passion for mentoring aspiring educators throughout their academic journeys.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Adjunct Professor
Gettysburg College
01.2019 - Current
- Instructed Teaching Students with Diverse Needs, emphasizing understanding and addressing the diverse learning needs of students with disabilities.
- Instructed Educational Methods for Math, Science, English, and Social Studies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of effective teaching strategies.
- Instructed 8 students in the online Classroom Climate and Culture course in the Educational Design and Theory graduate program.
- Supervised and mentored 20 student teachers, providing guidance and support throughout their practical teaching experiences.
- Instructed Student Teacher Seminar, enhancing students’ research and reflective skills through Action Research.
- Designed and implemented professional development opportunities and career readiness workshops in Student Teacher Internship, preparing future educators for success in their careers.
- Incorporated a variety of technologies and instructional methodologies to create engaging and interactive learning experiences for students.
- Offered individualized support to students, assisting in improving comprehension of course material and aiding in future classroom planning.
- Established collaborative partnerships with 9 local school districts to facilitate valuable field experiences and student teacher placements, enhancing practical learning opportunities.
Intervention Specialist
New Oxford High School
08.2015 - Current
- Designed and implemented a comprehensive program for at-risk students at the high school level, incorporating credit recovery, remediation, and tutoring services.
- Established and managed a testing center accessible to all high school students, enhancing their academic support resources.
- Prepared and analyzed weekly data to identify and implement targeted interventions for struggling students, contributing to improved academic outcomes.
- Served as a key member of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) team, specializing in interventions to support student success.
- Assumed responsibilities as an assistant principal throughout the academic year, effectively managing administrative duties.
- Collaborated with Gettysburg College to facilitate field experience placements and evaluations for students within the school building.
- Invited as a guest speaker for five semesters in the EDU 340 "Teaching Students with Diverse Needs" course at Gettysburg College, sharing practical insights and experiences.
- Actively participated as a committee member in the pre-apprenticeship/apprenticeship program initiative, focusing on opportunities for students entering the education field.
Interim Director of Special Education
Conewago Valley School District
01.2015 - 06.2015
- Collaborated with key stakeholders to ensure the consistent and faithful implementation of special education policies and procedures.
- Supervised and provided leadership to 30 special education teachers and 3 school psychologists, utilizing the Pennsylvania Teacher Effectiveness - Differentiated Supervision Plan to enhance professional development and growth.
- Ensured the individual needs of all special education students were met through effective program planning and resource allocation.
- Conducted professional development sessions on special education topics for teachers and district administration, fostering a comprehensive understanding of best practices and compliance with relevant regulations.
Special Education Teacher
New Oxford High School
08.2001 - 01.2015
- Provided and adapted instruction for high school students with learning disabilities, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
- Designed and implemented a front-loading program for core curricular areas in grades 9-12, enabling learning support students to actively participate in general education classrooms successfully.
- Developed and executed comprehensive Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for learning support students, ensuring personalized and effective educational plans.
- Facilitated meetings with parents, students, and key stakeholders to collaboratively address and meet the unique needs of students with learning disabilities.
- Assumed the responsibilities of an assistant principal at various times throughout the academic year, contributing to effective school administration.
- Played a key role in the development of the Adams County Transition Council and served as Co-chair on numerous occasions, demonstrating leadership in fostering collaborative efforts within the community.
Special Education Teacher
Northern York County High School
09.1998 - 06.2001
- Provided specialized instruction and modifications within the regular education classroom through a co-teaching model, ensuring inclusivity for students with learning disabilities.
- Collaborated closely with regular education teachers to modify and adapt instructional methods, materials, and assessments to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.
- Developed and implemented Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with learning disabilities, ensuring tailored and effective educational strategies.
- Facilitated IEP meetings, fostering communication and collaboration among parents, educators, and other stakeholders to address students’ individual needs.
- Contributed as an active member of the Student Assistance Program, offering support and insights to promote the overall well-being of students.
Special Education Teacher
Bermudian Spring Middle School
08.1996 - 06.1998
- Provided specialized instruction to 7th and 8th-grade learning support students in a supplemental, self-contained setting, utilizing an adapted curriculum to meet individual learning needs.
- Delivered instruction with adaptations and modifications in the regular classroom setting, employing a co teaching model specifically for language arts.
- Developed and executed Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students, ensuring personalized educational strategies aligned with their unique requirements.
- Facilitated IEP meetings, fostering collaborative communication among parents, educators, and relevant stakeholders to address and support students’ individualized learning goals.
Special Education Teacher
New Oxford High School
08.1995 - 06.1995
- Delivered specialized instruction using a modified curriculum for English and math to high school students with learning disabilities in grades 9-12, fostering a supportive self-contained classroom environment.
- Developed and implemented Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students, ensuring tailored and effective educational strategies aligned with their unique learning needs.
- Facilitated IEP meetings, promoting collaboration among parents, educators, and relevant stakeholders to address and support students’ individualized learning goals.
Education
Special Education Supervisory Certification -
Immaculata University
Immaculata, PA05.2014
Master’s - Educational Leadership - Principal’s Certification
Immaculata University
Immaculata, PA05.2009
Bachelor’s - Special Education and Elementary Education
Slippery Rock University
Slippery Rock, PA05.1995
Skills
- Academic and behavior intervention expertise
- Proficient in digital education delivery
- Technology strategist
- Experienced with Moodle, Google Classroom, and Schoology
- Experienced in utilizing collaborative platforms for learning
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite
- Adaptive educational methods for inclusive learning environments
- Educational program design
Accomplishments
- Developed a program for high school at-risk students that won the Shippensburg University Exemplary Program Award.
- Disney's Teacher of the Year Nominee
Certification
K-12 Special Education Certification
K-8 Elementary Education Certification
Principal's Certification
Supervisory of Special Education Certification
Apple Certified Teacher
Timeline
Adjunct Professor
Gettysburg College
01.2019 - Current
Intervention Specialist
New Oxford High School
08.2015 - Current
Interim Director of Special Education
Conewago Valley School District
01.2015 - 06.2015
Special Education Teacher
New Oxford High School
08.2001 - 01.2015
Special Education Teacher
Northern York County High School
09.1998 - 06.2001
Special Education Teacher
Bermudian Spring Middle School
08.1996 - 06.1998
Special Education Teacher
New Oxford High School
08.1995 - 06.1995
Master’s - Educational Leadership - Principal’s Certification
Immaculata University
Bachelor’s - Special Education and Elementary Education
Slippery Rock University
Special Education Supervisory Certification -
Immaculata University