Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Certification
HOBBIES
Timeline
Generic

Mark R. Gonzalez

Summary

School Psychologist eager to work with students of all backgrounds and all types of emotional, behavioral and academic needs. Friendly, adaptable and relatable professional. Successful at helping students cope with academic and social pressures. Excellent communication, problem-solving and relationship building skills. Offering 28 years in education.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Sharyland ISD
08.2008 - 12.2023
  • Improved student well-being by conducting comprehensive psychological assessments and creating tailored intervention plans.
  • Collaborated with teachers and parents to implement effective strategies for addressing students'' unique learning needs.
  • Enhanced school climate by developing and implementing prevention programs focused on positive behavior support.
  • Reduced instances of bullying through the implementation of school-wide anti-bullying initiatives and training sessions for staff members.
  • Assisted in crisis response efforts, ensuring timely interventions for at-risk students while maintaining a safe learning environment.
  • Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to monitor progress and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for continuous improvement.
  • Provided professional development opportunities for staff members on topics related to mental health awareness, classroom management, and social-emotional learning.
  • Contributed to increased graduation rates by identifying barriers to success and providing targeted support services for struggling students.
  • Facilitated group counseling sessions, promoting healthy communication skills and peer relationships among participants.
  • Increased parent involvement by hosting workshops and informational events focused on supporting children''s academic success and emotional wellbeing.
  • Promoted inclusivity within schools by collaborating with administrators to develop policies that foster diversity and cultural competence among staff members.
  • Conducted functional behavioral assessments to identify underlying causes of challenging behaviors and create effective behavior intervention plans accordingly.
  • Served as a liaison between families, school personnel, community agencies, and other professionals involved in the care of students with special needs or disabilities.
  • Advocated for equitable access to educational opportunities by assessing potential accommodations or modifications required for diverse learners within the general education curriculum.
  • Enhanced student-teacher relationships through consultation services aimed at fostering empathetic understanding of individual student needs and experiences.
  • Supported the transition process for students entering new educational settings, ensuring smooth integration and appropriate accommodations.
  • Developed social skills training programs to increase positive peer interactions and decrease instances of conflict among students.
  • Utilized research-based practices to inform decision-making processes related to school-wide mental health initiatives and intervention strategies.
  • Maintained accurate records and documentation in accordance with state regulations, ensuring confidentiality and ethical practices across all professional activities.
  • Built positive and productive relationships with students, parents, educators and community resources.
  • Facilitated interdisciplinary meetings to assess goals and progress.
  • Collaborated with educators, school administrators and external professionals in development of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
  • Met with students to conduct individual assessments and determine academic and mental health needs.
  • Utilized formal and established testing protocols to evaluate educational, emotional and behavioral needs of students.
  • Provided crisis intervention in response to emergencies, employing existing trust, and rapport to deescalate situations.
  • Completed required documentation and reports for compliance and treatment planning.
  • Collaborated with social workers to help students grow in social and emotional capacities.
  • Observed students in classroom and play environments.
  • Consulted with teachers and parents to gain in-depth understanding of students.
  • Conducted group and individual counseling sessions for key issues.
  • Led staff and faculty training and development to support program objectives.
  • Compiled and interpreted students' test results along with information from teachers and parents to diagnose conditions and assess eligibility for special services.
  • Selected, administered and scored psychological tests.
  • Provided social skills training in groups to students with autism.
  • Provided parent training in parenting skills on topics such as managing anxiety, bullying, student success, drug awareness, etc.
  • Provided in-home training for parents of children with autism by creating visual schedules, setting up routines, and managing behavior.
  • Provided CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) Training for district staff to provide for the best possible Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security of everyone involved in a crisis situation by using verbal intervention skills to de-escalate disruptive behaviors and non-violent physical crisis interventions.
  • Certified as a Special Olympics Coach for the sports of bocce, bowling, basketball, soccer, and track & field and attended local and state competitions.
  • Participated in presenting at Career Day activities

Behavior Specialist

Sharyland ISD
08.2008 - 05.2013
  • Improved student behavior by implementing individualized behavior support plans and strategies.
  • Reduced classroom disruptions through careful observation and analysis of student behaviors, leading to tailored interventions.
  • Enhanced teacher-student relationships by providing guidance on effective communication and rapport-building techniques.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive, effective treatment plans for students with behavioral challenges.
  • Trained staff in evidence-based practices for addressing challenging behaviors and promoting positive outcomes.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of behavior interventions using data-driven approaches, making adjustments as needed to ensure success.
  • Conducted functional behavior assessments to identify root causes of challenging behaviors and inform intervention planning.
  • Provided crisis intervention support during critical incidents, deescalating situations and ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
  • Educated parents on best practices for managing difficult behaviors at home, fostering consistency across settings.
  • Developed social skills curricula tailored to individual student needs, enhancing peer interactions and fostering positive relationships.
  • Designed visual supports and environmental modifications to promote optimal learning environments for students with behavioral challenges.
  • Coached teachers in proactive classroom management techniques, reducing instances of disruptive behavior during instructional time.
  • Worked closely with school administrators to address systemic issues contributing to problem behaviors within the school setting.
  • Implemented data collection systems for monitoring student progress toward behavioral goals, providing regular updates to stakeholders on achievements made over time.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions targeting social-emotional skill development among students experiencing social difficulties in school settings.
  • Served as a liaison between families and schools regarding concerns about student behavior, working collaboratively towards mutually beneficial solutions.
  • Presented professional development workshops for educators on topics related to classroom management, behavior modification strategies, and understanding the needs of students with emotional and behavioral disorders.
  • Conducted ongoing professional development in evidence-based practices for behavior intervention, staying current with industry trends and best practices.
  • Promoted a positive school climate by fostering collaborative relationships between staff members, families, and community partners in support of student success.
  • Supervised student behavior during daily academic routines to secure safety of students and staff.
  • Crafted Behavioral Intervention Plans for individual students.
  • Consulted regular education classroom teachers to develop curriculum modifications and intervention strategies.
  • Utilized positive reinforcement to maximize desired behavior and educational outcomes.
  • Maintained accurate and confidential records of assigned students.
  • Oversaw proactive crisis intervention training for campus employees.
  • Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
  • Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
  • Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.
  • Provided emotional support to students and families.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
  • Conducted assessments of students to determine individual needs.
  • Developed Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
  • Provided classroom and school-wide behavior management strategies.
  • Assisted staff in: defining and measuring behavior; understanding principles of reinforcement; teaching new behavior; implementing strategies for weakening behavior; and identifying antecedents.
  • Worked cooperatively with administrators to promote positive student behavior by providing professional development that targeted research, strategies, and modeling of instructional practices to support teachers in their implementation of positive behavior support in their classrooms.

Educational Diagnostician/LSSP Intern

Harlingen CISD
08.2007 - 05.2008
  • Enhanced student learning outcomes by recommending individualized educational plans and interventions.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive assessments for students with diverse needs.
  • Improved student success rates by identifying specific learning challenges and creating targeted intervention strategies.
  • Conducted thorough evaluations, accurately pinpointing areas requiring additional support or intervention.
  • Provided expert guidance to parents and educators on appropriate accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities.
  • Developed strong relationships with students, fostering trust and open communication during evaluations and consultations.
  • Served as liaison between school staff, families, and outside service providers, coordinating efforts to maximize student success.
  • Facilitated regular meetings with stakeholders to review progress towards goals and make necessary adjustments to educational plans.
  • Contributed positively to the overall functioning of the special education department as part of a collaborative team.
  • Deployed various assessment instruments and techniques to assist in identifying students eligible for special education services.
  • Selected, administered and interpreted appropriate formal and informal assessments and evaluations.
  • Assisted school personnel in identification and understanding of students with disabilities.
  • Collaborated with educators, school administrators and external professionals in development of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
  • Met with students to conduct individual assessments and determine academic and mental health needs.
  • Compiled and interpreted students' test results along with information from teachers and parents to diagnose conditions and assess eligibility for special services.
  • Completed required documentation and reports for compliance and treatment planning.
  • Utilized formal and established testing protocols to evaluate educational, emotional and behavioral needs of students.
  • Consulted with teachers and parents to gain in-depth understanding of students.
  • Selected, administered and scored psychological tests.
  • Contributed to a positive team environment by collaborating with fellow interns on group projects and presentations.
  • Prepared comprehensive reports summarizing data analysis findings, informing key decision-makers of important trends and patterns.
  • Developed organizational skills through managing multiple tasks simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines.
  • Provided CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) Training for district staff to provide for the best possible Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security of everyone involved in a crisis situation by using verbal intervention skills to de-escalate disruptive behaviors and non-violent physical crisis interventions.

Special Education/Jr. High General Ed. Counselor

Valley View ISD
08.2002 - 05.2007
  • Enhanced student progress by utilizing evidence-based counseling techniques and individualized counseling plans.
  • Improved student satisfaction through consistent communication, empathy, and understanding of their unique challenges.
  • Developed and facilitated individual therapy sessions for increased social support and skill-building opportunities.
  • Assisted students in setting realistic goals, developing action plans, and monitoring progress towards achievement.
  • Conducted thorough assessments to identify student needs and appropriate intervention strategies.
  • Provided crisis intervention services to students experiencing acute distress or dangerous situations.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of student interactions, assessments, and progress notes for effective case management.
  • Implemented behavioral modification strategies to help students develop healthier coping mechanisms.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development trainings to remain current on best practices within the counseling field.
  • Established trusting therapeutic alliances with students through empathetic listening, validation, and unconditional positive regard.
  • Promoted mental health awareness within the community through participation in educational events and presentations.
  • Contributed to a supportive work environment by sharing knowledge, resources, and new findings within the counseling field.
  • Maintained confidentiality of records relating to students' plans.
  • Guided students in developing skills and strategies for dealing with problems.
  • Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions to promote positive behavior change.
  • Communicated closely with other counselors to devise programs and activities based on developmental and academic levels.
  • Listened to students' concerns and provided encouragement and support.
  • Supported students dealing with mental health and emotional issues.
  • Determined students' risk of self-harm or other dangerous behaviors.
  • Guidance & counseling of special education students.
  • Develop BIPs, counseling IEPs goals & objectives, and functional behavior assessments.
  • Administer behavior evaluations & academic assessments.
  • Present monthly topics to students on anger management, organizational & study skills, bullying, sexual harassment, assertiveness training.
  • Provide staff training in Texas School Behavior Initiative (TSBI - SB 1196).
  • Provide parent training in parenting skills.
  • Provide staff training in behavior and classroom management.
  • Organized Red Ribbon Week - Drug-free school activities, Career Day activities, and Transition Fair for student awareness in college and job opportunities.
  • Special Olympics Coach - Bocce, Bowling, Basketball, and Track & Field. Trainer of Trainers in CPI.

Counselor Intern

Hidalgo County Juvenile Probation - Boot Camp
06.2002 - 07.2002
  • Individual counseling with juvenile offenders on issues dealing with drug awareness, substance abuse, self-esteem, family conflicts, school and career interests, and making positive choices.


Special Education Teacher (Social Adjustment Unit)

La Joya ISD
08.2001 - 05.2002
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Instruct students with emotional and learning disabilities in the core subjects and social skills.
  • Trained staff in CPI non-violent physical crisis intervention prevention, participated and held ARD/IEP meetings.
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices in special education instruction and classroom management techniques.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
  • Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
  • Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
  • Led activities that developed students' physical, emotional, and social growth.
  • Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
  • Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
  • Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
  • Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
  • Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.

Counselor Intern - Central Middle School

Pinnacle Program With Boys & Girls Club
02.2002 - 04.2002
  • Individual counseling with middle school students on issues dealing with academic achievement, self-esteem, career interests and choices, drug awareness, and gang resistance.

Special Ed. Teacher-Content Mastery/Behavior Unit

La Joya ISD
08.2000 - 05.2001
  • Instructed students with learning disabilities in different subjects such as English, History, Science, and Math.
  • Instructed students with emotional disturbance in the behavioral unit.
  • Reduced disruptive behavior in the classroom by establishing clear expectations and implementing effective classroom management strategies.
  • Created a safe and inclusive learning environment that promoted respect, empathy, and understanding among students.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
  • Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
  • Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
  • Led activities that developed students' physical, emotional, and social growth.
  • Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
  • Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
  • Facilitated small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
  • Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
  • Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
  • Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
  • Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.

Special Education Teacher (Content Mastery)

Donna ISD
08.1999 - 05.2000
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Provided one-on-one support for students with learning disabilities, enabling them to excel in their coursework.
  • Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
  • Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
  • Taught multiple subjects to students with intellectual or emotional disabilities.
  • Led activities that developed students' physical, emotional, and social growth.
  • Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
  • Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
  • Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
  • Implemented behavior modification techniques to improve student social and academic performance.
  • Developed Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
  • Improved behavior by modeling positive choices and teaching socially-acceptable options.
  • Instructed students with learning disabilities in various subjects such as English, Math, History, and Science.

Special Education Teacher (Life Skills)

Weslaco ISD
08.1996 - 05.1999
  • Enhanced students'' communication skills by implementing group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
  • Organized field trips and community-based experiences that enriched students'' understanding of real-world applications for their skills.
  • Enhanced learning experiences by incorporating specialized tools and resources tailored to the needs of special education students.
  • Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
  • Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
  • Instructed students with physical and cognitive disabilities.
  • Instructed students according to their respective IEPs
  • Supervised teacher assistants on the instruction of students.
  • Prepared lesson plans.
  • Conducted Annual ARD/IEP meetings.
  • Developed and implemented IEP goals and objectives
  • Consulted with PTs, OTs, STs, and other professionals servicing the students.
  • Supervised arrival and dismissal of students.
  • Performed feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene duties.
  • Requested purchase orders for consumable and instructional supplies.
  • Scheduled parent conferences.
  • Participated in professional development workshops.
  • Assisted with supervising students at Special Olympics events.

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

Health South Rehabilitation Institute Of San Anton
01.1996 - 05.1996
  • Conducted initial interviews
  • Administered mental aptitude tests and COPS and COPES tests
  • Scored the mental aptitude tests and COPS and COPES tests
  • Assisted the job coach in job development and placement for patients with traumatic brain injuries in settings such as food stores, welding, assembly, restaurants, etc.
  • Assisted patients with traumatic brain injuries in developing job resumes
  • Supervised and cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries at a transitional living house
  • Participated in occupational and physical treatment sessions and support groups for patients with traumatic brain injuries
  • Led a work adjustment group
  • Served on head injury prevention committee with the city of San Antonio

Education

Master of Arts - School Psychology

The University of Texas - Pan American
Edinburg, TX
05.2008

Master of Education - Special Education in CLD Students

The University of Texas - Pan American
Edinburg, TX
05.2004

Master of Education - Guidance And Counseling

The University of Texas - Pan American
Edinburg, TX
08.2002

Bachelor of Science - Rehabilitative Services

The University of Texas - Pan American
Edinburg, TX
05.1996

Skills

  • Autism Spectrum Support (Social Skills Training and Behavior Compliance)
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Individual Counseling (Elementary, Jr High, High School students)
  • Group Counseling with young adolescents (Anger management, Coping Skills, Organizational and Study skills, Bullying, Sexual Harassment, Assertiveness Training)
  • Grief and Loss Counseling
  • Psychoeducational
  • Multicultural Competence
  • Crisis Intervention - CPI Training
  • Behavioral Intervention
  • Diagnostic Interviewing
  • Case Management
  • Psychosocial Evaluation
  • Anger Management
  • Suicide Risk Assessment
  • Career Counseling
  • Proficient in Microsoft 365 Applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook)
  • Staff Development Training for Teachers and Administrators
  • Consultation
  • Scoring and Interpretation of psychological evaluation tools
  • Coach for Special Olympics (Bocce, Bowling, Basketball, Soccer, Track & Field)

Affiliations

  • TASP Member
  • TFT/AFT Member
  • Knights of Columbus Member

Certification


Certified Behavior Strategist Training - Region One ESC

Certified CPI Trainer of Trainers (20 yrs.)

Texas Guidance & Counseling School Counselor/Special Ed. Counselor Certificate (K-12) - Expired

Texas Teaching Certificate - Generic Special Education (K-12) - Lifetime

Certified Trainer of Trainers in Building Communities (Search Institute)

HOBBIES

Playing golf, bicycling, weightlifting, collecting Dallas Cowboys memorabilia, collecting Jeep items

Timeline

Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Sharyland ISD
08.2008 - 12.2023

Behavior Specialist

Sharyland ISD
08.2008 - 05.2013

Educational Diagnostician/LSSP Intern

Harlingen CISD
08.2007 - 05.2008

Special Education/Jr. High General Ed. Counselor

Valley View ISD
08.2002 - 05.2007

Counselor Intern

Hidalgo County Juvenile Probation - Boot Camp
06.2002 - 07.2002

Counselor Intern - Central Middle School

Pinnacle Program With Boys & Girls Club
02.2002 - 04.2002

Special Education Teacher (Social Adjustment Unit)

La Joya ISD
08.2001 - 05.2002

Special Ed. Teacher-Content Mastery/Behavior Unit

La Joya ISD
08.2000 - 05.2001

Special Education Teacher (Content Mastery)

Donna ISD
08.1999 - 05.2000

Special Education Teacher (Life Skills)

Weslaco ISD
08.1996 - 05.1999

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist

Health South Rehabilitation Institute Of San Anton
01.1996 - 05.1996

Master of Arts - School Psychology

The University of Texas - Pan American

Master of Education - Special Education in CLD Students

The University of Texas - Pan American

Master of Education - Guidance And Counseling

The University of Texas - Pan American

Bachelor of Science - Rehabilitative Services

The University of Texas - Pan American

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Mark R. Gonzalez