Paula Chinn
Cedar Hill,TX
Summary
Versatile and dedicated child advocate with extensive Special Education teaching and evaluation experience. Skilled in developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and vocational transition plans for students with educational, medical, and behavioral needs. Experienced in academic assessments and evaluating medical reports to create targeted instructional and behavioral support plans. Collaborates effectively with evaluators, district staff, and parents to ensure student success and achievement. Committed to equity, compliance, and compassionate service in educational and clinical environments.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Dyslexia Evaluator
Dallas Independent School District
04.2016 - 06.2025
- Administered and interpreted formal dyslexia assessments; evaluated eligibility based on TEA and IDEA criteria.
- Interpreted complex educational data in ARD and 504 meetings, collaborating with evaluators, parents, and campus staff.
- Provided district staff and parent trainings on dyslexia instructional programs and evaluation procedures.
Special Education Teacher (Inclusion & Case Manager)
Dallas Independent School District
06.2003 - 04.2016
- Taught in co-teaching and inclusive environments supporting diverse learners with disabilities across content areas.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to adapt curriculum, implement accommodations, and co-develop instructional strategies.
- Conducted and participated in ARD meetings and maintained compliance with federal, state, and district policies.
- Developed IEPs and behavioral support plans; tracked progress and adjusted interventions as needed.
Claims Adjuster & Commercial Claims Representative
Various Insurance Firms
Dallas, TX
01.1996 - 01.2003
- Applied legal and investigative skills to analyze complex insurance claims; experience that strengthened analytical and documentation capabilities now used in educational diagnostics.
Education
Educator Certifications (Texas) - Special Education EC–12, English Language Arts/Reading 4–8
State Board of Educator Certification
01.2009
Paralegal Certification -
Southeastern Paralegal Institute
05-1994
Bachelor of Business Administration -
Seattle University
08-1985
Certified Academic Language Practitioner (CALP) -
Lead/Literacy Education & Academic Development, Inc.
Skills
- Individualized Education Plan Development
- Section 504 Plan Development
- Individual Transition Planning
- Interpretation of Educational Testing
- Evaluating Medical Reports
- Special Education Law
- Dyslexia Assessment
- Case Management
- ARD and Section 504 process
- Staff and Parent Training
Timeline
Lead Dyslexia Evaluator
Dallas Independent School District
04.2016 - 06.2025
Special Education Teacher (Inclusion & Case Manager)
Dallas Independent School District
06.2003 - 04.2016
Claims Adjuster & Commercial Claims Representative
Various Insurance Firms
01.1996 - 01.2003
Educator Certifications (Texas) - Special Education EC–12, English Language Arts/Reading 4–8
State Board of Educator Certification
Paralegal Certification -
Southeastern Paralegal Institute
Bachelor of Business Administration -
Seattle University
Certified Academic Language Practitioner (CALP) -
Lead/Literacy Education & Academic Development, Inc.
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