Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Skills - Leadership Abilities
References
Timeline
Generic

MARIA CULLISON

Pueblo,CO

Summary

Compassionate and results-driven educator with a strong background in individualized education, behavior support, and collaborative family engagement—tailored to meet the unique needs of elementary students. Experienced in proctoring state assessments and implementing PNP accommodations to ensure equity and compliance. Proven leadership as a New Teacher Coordinator and active member of school leadership teams, mentoring both general and special education teachers. Skilled in behavior intervention and case management, with a consistent record of improving student outcomes through restorative practices and positive behavior supports. Eager to bring this expertise to a Dean of Students role, fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where all young learners can thrive.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Education Teacher

Park View Elementary
Pueblo, CO
08.2014 - Current
  • Facilitated IEP meetings to create individualized education plans addressing diverse student needs.
  • Directed site-based programs for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disabilities, and Affective Needs, offering comprehensive educational support.
  • Monitored sensory, academic, social/emotional, and behavioral development of students to identify areas for growth.
  • Coordinated paraprofessional schedules to enhance classroom integration and promote inclusion.

ID/MD Teacher

Heaton Middle School
08.2013 - 06.2014
  • Serviced middle school students with an Intellectual Disability and Multiple Disabilities for one year. I cultivated a rigorous academic program with those students who were center-based and supported those who were in general education. I supported their physical and health needs and was in consistent communication with parents/guardians.

Affective Needs Teacher

Freed Middle School/Heroes Academy
Pueblo, CO
08.2011 - 06.2013
  • Serviced middle school students with emotional disabilities for two years.
    Utilized CPI certification to facilitate behavior modification strategies.
    Supported student integration while providing one-on-one assistance as needed.
    Developed incentive programs to demonstrate academic and behavioral growth.

Education

Master of Education - Educational Administration

Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
07-2024

Master of Education - Special Education

Grand Canyon University
07.2021

Bachelor of Science - Liberal Studies

Colorado State University-Pueblo
05.2011

Skills

  • Mentoring
  • Collaboration and facilitation
  • Decision making
  • Individualized education programs
  • Evaluations and assessments
  • Disability identification
  • Instructional methods
  • Behavior modification strategies
  • Classroom management techniques
  • Case management
  • Support coordination
  • Accommodations planning
  • Scheduling

Skills - Leadership Abilities

  • Mentorship
  • Experienced member of MTSS/RTI teams
  • Experience with SEL
  • Collaborate with administration, parents and teachers
  • Facilitate IEP meetings
  • Make important decisions regarding Individualized Education Programs, Evaluations, Disability Identifications, methods of instruction, interventions, behavior modifications and classroom management
  • Case manage students with disabilities regarding service hours, needs, support and appropriate accommodations.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Special Education Teacher

Park View Elementary
08.2014 - Current

ID/MD Teacher

Heaton Middle School
08.2013 - 06.2014

Affective Needs Teacher

Freed Middle School/Heroes Academy
08.2011 - 06.2013

Master of Education - Educational Administration

Grand Canyon University

Master of Education - Special Education

Grand Canyon University

Bachelor of Science - Liberal Studies

Colorado State University-Pueblo