Paula Olson
Alexandria,MN
Summary
Accomplished Deaf Mentor at Lutheran Social Services of MN, adept in American Sign Language and deaf culture, with a proven track record in enhancing communication for individuals with sensory impairments. Expert in teamwork, collaboration, and project management, I've significantly contributed to creating inclusive environments and advocating for accessibility. My approach combines patience, strategic planning, and effective behavior management to support and empower diverse learning needs.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Deaf Mentor
Lutheran Social Services of MN
10.2022 - Current
- Served as a role model for professionalism, integrity, and dedication within the mentorship program environment teaching hearing families with deaf children American Sign Language.
- Providing personalized guidance and support both remotely and in families' home.
- Served as role model for families by demonstrating strong values and ethical standards by sharing personal experiences and knowledge of deaf culture and American Sign Language (ASL)
- A native and fluent ASL user
Deaf Blind Intervenor
Deaf Blind Services of Minnesota
09.2004 - 06.2019
- Coordinated with external agencies to secure appropriate services for individuals requiring additional support or resources.
- Educated local businesses on the importance of creating accessible spaces for individuals with sensory impairments, leading to increased community awareness and engagement efforts.
- Advocated for clients within community settings, promoting accessibility and inclusivity across various environments.
- Enhanced client communication by providing clear and concise information on available services and resources.
Paraprofessional
Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf
09.2002 - 06.2019
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
- Improved classroom management by assisting teachers with behavioral interventions and monitoring student progress.
- Supervised students during non-instructional periods such as lunch, recess, or field trips, ensuring safety at all times.
- Enhanced student support by delivering one-on-one and small group assistance in various subjects.
- Supported special education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with diverse learning needs.
- Collaborated with teachers to develop and implement individualized education plans for students with special needs.
Program Manager
REM Minnesota
06.1995 - 10.2005
- Managed and supervised administrative and daily program operations, complying with policies and regulations.
- Established strong relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring support for program initiatives.
- Developed strategic plans, setting clear objectives and achievable milestones for the team.
- Managed cross-functional teams for successful project completion within deadlines and budgets.
Education
Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts
South Central Community College
Faribault, MNAssociate of Applied Science - Health Information Technology
Rochester Community And Technical Colleger
Rochester, MN12-2017
Skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Facilitation techniques
- Behavior management
- Project management
- Helping students with special needs
- Small group and individual assistance
- Special education support
- Teamwork
- Calm and patient demeanor
- Multitasking
- Data collection
- Excellent communication
Accomplishments
- Supported 10 classroom teachers in implementing a developmentally-appropriate curriculum for a group of 5-8 students while being a paraprofessional.
- Assisted 4 special needs students before and after school participating in community outings and activities of their choice while being a deaf blind intervenor.
- Supervised team of 10 staff members in a group home setting while being a program manager and collected data for annual meetings.
Certification
- Advanced level on Sign Language proficiency test considered as native, natural and fluent user of American Sign Language
- First Aid Certification
- CPR/AED Certification
- crisis mangagement
Languages
American Sign Language
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Deaf Mentor
Lutheran Social Services of MN
10.2022 - Current
Deaf Blind Intervenor
Deaf Blind Services of Minnesota
09.2004 - 06.2019
Paraprofessional
Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf
09.2002 - 06.2019
Program Manager
REM Minnesota
06.1995 - 10.2005
Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts
South Central Community College
Associate of Applied Science - Health Information Technology
Rochester Community And Technical Colleger
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