Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Certification
Interests
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Michelle Ritchey, Au.D.

3 Quarter Horse Drive NW, Rome,GA
Michelle Ritchey, Au.D.

Summary

With a proven track record at Floyd County Schools, I excel in differentiated instruction and fostering strong relationships, enhancing student success. My expertise in IEPs, IDEA, ADA and collaborative teamwork has significantly improved learning outcomes. I'm committed to leveraging my skills in a new role, bringing both innovative educational strategies and a passion for inclusive learning environments in the student's Least Restrictive Environment.

Overview

20
years of professional experience
1
Certification

Work History

Floyd County Schools

Special Education Teacher
10.2008 - Current

Job overview

  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents and guardians, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure student progress.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
  • Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
  • Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
  • Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
  • Coordinated with general education teachers to develop accommodations or modifications necessary for successful inclusion of students with special needs in mainstream classrooms.
  • Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
  • 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.
  • Coordinated special education students and teacher assistant schedules with master schedule.
  • Redirected students using Positive Behavior Support (PBS).
  • Assisted struggling students to maintain progress levels by designing individualized lesson plans focused on areas for improvement.
  • Enhanced students'' communication skills by implementing group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Streamlined classroom processes by integrating technology tools such as interactive whiteboards and assistive devices designed for students with disabilities.
  • Served as a mentor to new teachers, sharing best practices in special education instruction and classroom management techniques.
  • Partnered with standard education teachers from across academic departments.
  • Encouraged students to take ownership of learning by providing choices.
  • Fostered positive learning environment, reducing classroom disruptions through effective behavior management strategies.
  • Boosted student engagement in mathematics by introducing problem-solving activities that connected concepts to real-world situations.
  • Encouraged parent and guardian involvement in educational process, enhancing home-school connection and supporting student achievement.
  • Integrated social skills training into curriculum, facilitating improved peer interactions and social integration.
  • Improved reading comprehension among students with learning disabilities by designing and delivering targeted literacy activities.
  • Promoted self-advocacy and independence in students with disabilities by teaching self-management and decision-making skills.
  • Guided students through transition planning processes, preparing them for post-secondary education and employment opportunities.
  • Conducted assessments to identify students' strengths and areas for improvement, informing instructional strategies.
  • Reduced feelings of isolation among students with special needs by implementing inclusive classroom practices.
  • Utilized data from student assessments to tailor instruction, resulting in more effective learning outcomes.
  • Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet varied needs of students, enhancing educational accessibility.
  • Implemented individualized education plans for students with diverse learning needs, ensuring personalized support.
  • Advocated for rights and needs of students with special education requirements, ensuring access to appropriate resources and accommodations.
  • Developed and executed behavioral intervention plans, leading to decrease in disruptive behaviors and increase in classroom participation.
  • Organized and led professional development sessions for colleagues on inclusive education strategies, improving school-wide support for students with disabilities.
  • Enhanced communication skills in non-verbal students through integration of alternative and augmentative communication systems.
  • Facilitated small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
  • Collaborated with other educators to develop instructional strategies.
  • Monitored student performance to evaluate effectiveness of instructional strategies.
  • Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
  • Conducted assessments of students to determine individual needs.
  • Planned daily activities to keep students engaged and on track with learning goals.
  • Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.

Floyd County Schools

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher
10.2008 - Current

Job overview

  • Maintained a safe and accessible classroom environment by adhering to all relevant regulations, policies, and procedures.
  • Consistently adapted lesson plans and instructional approaches based on regular feedback from students, parents, and colleagues.
  • Fostered strong relationships with parents, specialists, and support services to ensure comprehensive support for all students'' needs.
  • Implemented creative techniques to motivate students in their learning process while addressing their unique hearing-related challenges.
  • Led workshops for general education teachers on strategies for working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing students in inclusive settings.
  • Promoted student self-advocacy and independence by teaching them essential life skills tailored to their needs.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in Deaf education and continually improve teaching effectiveness.
  • Enhanced student learning by incorporating visual aids and multimedia tools into lessons specifically designed for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.

Floyd County Schools

Educational Audiologist
10.2008 - 05.2019

Job overview

  • Provided comprehensive evaluations of students' auditory functioning, leading to more effective support services and accommodations.
  • Conducted professional development workshops for educators on strategies for supporting students with hearing impairments, resulting in improved classroom inclusivity.
  • Enhanced student learning experience by utilizing cutting-edge audiology equipment and technology in the classroom.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on current research trends in educational audiology through continuous professional development activities.
  • Served as a liaison between school staff, families, and outside professionals to ensure appropriate support services were provided for students with hearing impairments.
  • Coordinated multi-disciplinary team meetings to discuss student progress, necessary accommodations, and additional support services required for success.
  • Provided consultation services to schools regarding the acoustics of classrooms, recommending modifications that benefited all learners within those spaces.
  • Performed comprehensive audiological evaluations for Standard Threshold Shift to determine work-related hearing loss or otherwise.
  • Measured hearing acuity and identified type and degree of hearing loss for patients by performing pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry and immittance audiometry testing.

Hearing & Balance Healthcare, Inc. (Self-Employed)

Clinical Audiologist
03.2005 - 08.2008

Job overview

  • Optimized clinic workflow by developing and implementing efficient record-keeping systems for patient data management.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex communication needs.
  • Increased clinic revenue through the sale of assistive listening devices, custom ear protection, and other audiologic products.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on industry advancements by attending continuing education courses and regularly reviewing relevant research publications.
  • Conducted newborn hearing screenings, contributing to early identification of hearing loss and timely intervention services.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction through the provision of high-quality hearing aid fittings and adjustments.
  • Improved patient outcomes by conducting comprehensive audiological evaluations and recommending appropriate treatment plans.
  • Implemented tinnitus management strategies for patients experiencing bothersome symptoms, leading to improved quality of life.
  • Provided exceptional customer service to all clients throughout their audiology journey, resulting in increased patient retention and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Raised community awareness about hearing health by conducting educational seminars and workshops at local schools and organizations.
  • Established strong relationships with referring physicians, ensuring seamless coordination of care for shared patients.
  • Measured hearing acuity and identified type and degree of hearing loss for patients by performing pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry and immittance audiometry testing.
  • Performed comprehensive audiological evaluations for Standard Threshold Shift to determine work-related hearing loss or otherwise.
  • Recommended and fitted assistive listening devices and protection devices to improve hearing.
  • Assessed integrity of auditory system by performing auditory brainstem response audiometry and electrocochleography.
  • Took ear impressions and molds, ordered instruments, and fitted devices, making adjustments for comfort and optimal functionality.
  • Administered and interpreted electrophysiological testing for infants and children to determine hearing levels.
  • Counseled patients to discuss hearing loss concerns and candidacy for personal amplification devices, hearing aids, and amplifiers.
  • Created variety of custom ear mold products for patients.
  • Used ENG and VNG tests to evaluate vestibular systems.
  • Collaborated with primary care physicians and otolaryngologists to initiate mutually beneficial referral programs.
  • Used medical computer-based patient record system to input daily statistics and place orders.

Education

Gallaudet University
Washington, DC

from Audiology & Speech Language Pathology
05-2003

University Overview

Gallaudet University:

  • Defended dissertation
  • Became fluent in American Sign Language
  • Passed Orals and Written exams


University of Georgia (B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders):

  • Dean's List
  • Honor Roll
  • Kappa Delta Epsilon Member
  • Student Baptist Association VP & Member
  • Elected to Secretary for SGA (Student Government Association)

Skills

  • Differentiated instruction
  • Classroom management
  • Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
  • Small group instruction
  • Resource teacher for math and reading
  • Inclusion teacher for math, reading, social studies, and science
  • Relationship building
  • Co-teaching experience
  • Lesson planning
  • Collaborative teamwork
  • Data management
  • Inclusion strategies
  • Team collaboration
  • Group and individual instruction
  • Motivating students
  • Parent communication
  • Parent-teacher collaboration
  • Instructional strategies
  • De-escalation techniques (Mindset Certified)
  • Special education
  • Social skills development
  • Parent communications
  • Behavior Intervention Plans (IEP)
  • Verbal and nonverbal communication (ASL)
  • Literacy intervention
  • Visual supports
  • Student support
  • Progress evaluations
  • Life skills instruction (during resource segments)
  • Multidisciplinary collaboration
  • Student records management
  • Assistive technology (FMs)
  • Scheduling proficiency
  • Mathematics intervention
  • Positive role model
  • Community resource referrals (Juniors, Seniors)
  • Education: 3-22 years old; Pre-k to High School
  • Assessment administration
  • American Sign Language
  • National education association
  • Data collection
  • Autism spectrum
  • Evidence-based assessment
  • Transition planning (Juniors, Seniors)
  • IEP and BIP implementation
  • Georgia Education Association
  • IEP development
  • Excellent communication
  • Individualized instruction
  • Attention to detail
  • Organizational skills
  • Time management
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Student recordkeeping
  • Written communication
  • Early intervention strategies
  • Play-based learning
  • Assistive technology integration

Accomplishments

Accomplishments
  • Expert on Google products and programs (Slides, Sheets, Docs, DRIVE, Classroom, Meet)
  • Orton-Gillingham trained (Comprehensive Plus for elementary-aged students and Morphology Plus for 5th grade and up)
  • Weekly PLCs (Professional Learning)
  • Yearbook Adviser (2021 to present)
  • FCA leader (middle school) & Power Source leader (elementary school)
  • Fall & Spring pictures coordinator
  • Obtained Reading Endorsement
  • Obtained Dyslexia Endorsement
  • Obtained Online Teaching Endorsement

Affiliations

Affiliations
  • PAGE
  • GAE

Certification

  • Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator (OGCE) - Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators.
  • Special Education Credential - Georgia Department of Education.
  • Hearing Instrument Specialist License - Georgia
  • Early Childhood Special Education Certification (ECSEC) - Georgia Department of Education.

Interests

  • Graphic Design
  • Music
  • Crafting and DIY Projects
  • I have a passion for photography and editing photos
  • Creating digital artwork using software like Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate
  • Blogging
  • Photography
  • Creative Writing
  • Gym Workouts
  • Regularly practice mindfulness and meditation for overall wellness
  • Web Development and Design
  • Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
  • Backpacking and Hiking
  • Gardening
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Volunteering
  • Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
  • Volunteer Work
  • I enjoy cooking for friends and family gatherings
  • Deaf ministry at church
  • Children's Church volunteer

Timeline

Special Education Teacher
Floyd County Schools
10.2008 - Current
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher
Floyd County Schools
10.2008 - Current
Educational Audiologist
Floyd County Schools
10.2008 - 05.2019
Clinical Audiologist
Hearing & Balance Healthcare, Inc. (Self-Employed)
03.2005 - 08.2008
Gallaudet University
from Audiology & Speech Language Pathology

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Michelle Ritchey, Au.D.