Dedicated and accomplished Special Education Professional with over 10 years of experience in multiple public school settings. Proven track record of success in navigating complex challenges related to Special Education Policy, Compliance, Operations, and Instructional Practice. Adept at providing leadership and guidance to ensure staff are in compliance and following best practices.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Department Chair
Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Virginia Beach
08.2022 - Current
Strengthened team cohesion among special education teachers, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Drove professional development within the department by organizing workshops, trainings, and conferences for staff members.
Collaborated closely with other department chairs to establish interdisciplinary connections in curriculum planning.
Championed an inclusive school culture by advocating for the needs of special education students during administrative discussions.
Evaluated and supervised itinerant teachers and support staff based on student needs.
Coordinated special education services through frequent principal collaboration and consultation.
Special Education Teacher
Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Virginia Beach
08.2018 - Current
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.
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.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Collaborated with other educators to develop instructional strategies.
Coordinated regular meetings to share and analyze student performance data and success plans with colleagues and parents.
New Teacher Mentor
Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Virginia Beach
09.2020 - 06.2021
Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and implementing targeted interventions when necessary.
Mentored new teachers in curriculum planning and instructional strategies, improving their teaching effectiveness.
Utilized data-driven instruction to guide lesson planning and adjust teaching methods as needed for optimal results.
Provided direction, collaboration and facilitation to mentee based on identified instructional needs
Provided support for mentee around program philosophy and provided professional guidance to ensure their success.
New Teacher Mentor
SECEP
Norfolk
08.2017 - 06.2018
Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and implementing targeted interventions when necessary.
Mentored new teachers in curriculum planning and instructional strategies, improving their teaching effectiveness.
Utilized data-driven instruction to guide lesson planning and adjust teaching methods as needed for optimal results.
Provided direction, collaboration and facilitation to mentee based on identified instructional needs
Provided support for mentee around program philosophy and provided professional guidance to ensure their success.
Special Education Teacher
SECEP
Norfolk
10.2011 - 06.2018
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.
Assessed student progress through regular evaluations, adjusting instructional strategies as needed for optimal results.
Implemented evidence-based behavioral intervention strategies, promoting a positive learning environment for all students.
Empowered students with self-advocacy skills through targeted lessons on communication, problem-solving, and goal-setting techniques.
Facilitated successful transitions for students entering high school or transitioning between grade levels by coordinating orientation programs and creating personalized transition plans.
Education
Master of Science - Special Education
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
05.2015
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Illinois State University
Normal, IL
05.2011
Skills
Problem Solver
Written and Verbal Communication Skills
Organizational Skills
Time Management
Subject Matter Expert
Training and Coaching
Certification
RBT - Registered Behavior Technician
Virginia Autism Certificate
Virginia Commonwealth Collegiate Professional License: Special Education-General Curriculum K-12