MICHELE GAMBESCIA
Newtown,PA
Summary
Special education professional, with a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, specializing in autism support and individualized instruction. Focuses heavily on communication needs. Drives student independence through targeted behavior interventions and effective IEP implementation. Collaborates with educators and therapists to create inclusive environments that promote engagement and real-world learning opportunities.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Instructional Assistant – Life Skills, Autistic Support
Council Rock School District
Newtown, PA
01.2018 - Current
- Implementing individualized instruction aligned with student IEP goals in functional academics, communication, social skills, daily living skills, and vocational readiness.
- Supporting positive behavior strategies and assisting with behavior intervention plans to promote independence and self-regulation.
- Collecting student performance data, communicating progress to educational teams, facilitating informed decision-making and targeted support.
- Collaborating with special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other related service providers.
- Supporting inclusion activities and community-based instruction to promote student independence and engagement in real-world settings.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Moorestown School District
Moorestown, NJ
09.2000 - 06.2001
- Managed comprehensive caseload of 80+ students with diverse speech, language, and developmental needs, tailoring interventions for individual progress.
- Conducted screenings, evaluations, diagnoses, and developed individualized treatment plans.
- Provided therapy in individual, small-group, large-group, and classroom settings.
- Collaborated with educators, families, and service providers in IEP meetings to ensure cohesive support for student communication goals.
- Maintained detailed documentation and progress monitoring in accordance with special education requirements.
- Educated and consulted with staff on effective communication strategies and classroom adaptations to enhance student learning outcomes.
Behavior Modification Therapist | Instructional Assistant
Colonial School District
Plymouth Meeting, PA
05.1996 - 10.1999
- Delivered tailored academic, behavioral, and social support to enhance learning outcomes for students with autism and developmental disabilities.
- Applied behavior modification strategies to foster communication, independence, and active classroom participation among students.
- Facilitated support for students in both inclusive general education and special education settings to promote engagement and learning.
- Collaborated with teachers, therapists, case managers, and families to reinforce educational goals.
- Assisted students during Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Learning Support services.
Education
Master of Arts - Speech-Language Pathology
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
Philadelphia, PA05-2000
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
CHESTNUT HILL COLLEGE
Philadelphia, PA05-1996
Skills
- Life Skills Instruction
- IEP Implementation
- Functional Academics
- Autism Support
- Behavior Intervention Strategies
- Communication Strategies
- Differentiated Instruction
- Transition Skills
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Special Education Instruction
- Social skills Training
- Community Based Instruction
Timeline
Instructional Assistant – Life Skills, Autistic Support
Council Rock School District
01.2018 - Current
Speech-Language Pathologist
Moorestown School District
09.2000 - 06.2001
Behavior Modification Therapist | Instructional Assistant
Colonial School District
05.1996 - 10.1999
Master of Arts - Speech-Language Pathology
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
CHESTNUT HILL COLLEGE