Madison Wade
Fort Atkinson,WI
Summary
Accomplished Program Director with advanced certification as a Certified Autism Specialist. Develops innovative, evidence-based programs to enhance social-emotional regulation and communication in nature-based therapeutic settings. Collaborates effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams, focusing on strengths-based approaches to create inclusive environments for neurodiverse individuals.
Overview
1
1
Certification
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Director Little Oaks
Oak Tree Child and Family Services
Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin
09.2025 - Current
- Designed and implemented innovative, evidence-based programming integrating Trauma-Informed Care, DIR/Floortime, Nurtured Heart Approach, and UCLA PEERS®, adapted into experiential, outdoor environments
- Created and launched diverse program offerings, including therapeutic day services, respite programming, social skills groups, sibling support groups, and caregiver-focused psychoeducational programs, expanding support options for families
- Develop individualized and group programming targeting social-emotional regulation, communication, and adaptive functioning through movement-rich, sensory-integrated, and nature-based experiences
- Supervised and coached staff, delivering ongoing training in behavior support, de-escalation, and relationship-based, neurodiversity-affirming practices to enhance staff effectiveness
- Collaborated with families, school teams, and community providers to ensure continuity of care, advocate for student needs, and align with IEP goals and services for improved student outcomes
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Barrie Elementary
Fort Atkinson, USA
01.2019 - 05.2024
- Developed individualized education plans and implemented tailored instruction for each student.
- Identified and evaluated students with diverse abilities to tailor interventions for those falling below grade level.
- Delivered evidence-based reading instruction using Orton-Gillingham philosophies and Wilson Reading System.
- Coordinated multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support services for students.
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Genesee Lake School
Oconomowoc, USA
04.2018 - 01.2019
- Provided individualized instruction for neurodiverse students with significant cognitive, behavioral, and adaptive needs in a therapeutic school setting
- Educated neurodiverse students with intellectual and adaptive behavioral needs through Floortime, SCERTS, and CoreWords, enhancing their learning and communication skills.
- Supported students in developing functional communication, emotional regulation, and daily living skills, leading to increased independence and improved classroom interactions.
- Collaborated closely with therapists, behavior specialists, and support staff to create cohesive, individualized programming
- Utilized proactive behavior supports and de-escalation strategies to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment
- Fostered student engagement with structured routines, sensory-informed supports, and individualized learning approaches, resulting in heightened participation and motivation.
Education
TEACHING LICENSE -
Wisconsin01-2023
Master of Science - SPECIAL EDUCATION
University Wisconsin-Whitewater
01-2019
BACHELOR OF ARTS - COMMUNICATIONS
Cardinal Stritch University
01-2016
Skills
- Program development
- Individualized programming
- Behavior support
- Individualized education plans
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Trauma-informed programming
- Student advocacy
- Staff training
Certification
- Certified Autism Specialist, CAS
- TEACHING LICENSE, T001 - #1001417804, Wisconsin, 05/23
- Nonviolent Crisis Intervention
- Wilson Reading System Intervention
- Certified Sibshop Facilitator
- The Mandt System
Professional Overview
Program Director and Licensed Special Education Teacher with a Master’s in Special Education and certification as a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS). Experienced in designing and leading innovative, evidence-based programming that supports neurodiverse individuals and their families across home, school, and community settings. Skilled in integrating trauma-informed care, relationship-based approaches, and nature-based therapeutic environments to promote social-emotional and behavioral growth through meaningful, real-world experiences and play. Proven ability to develop programs, lead teams, collaborate with families and interdisciplinary providers, and drive positive outcomes through strengths-based, individualized support.
Timeline
Program Director Little Oaks
Oak Tree Child and Family Services
09.2025 - Current
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Barrie Elementary
01.2019 - 05.2024
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Genesee Lake School
04.2018 - 01.2019
TEACHING LICENSE -
Master of Science - SPECIAL EDUCATION
University Wisconsin-Whitewater
BACHELOR OF ARTS - COMMUNICATIONS
Cardinal Stritch University