Shawna Coulter
Hugo,MN
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated educator specializing in special education. Expertise in problem-solving and adapting instructional materials to meet diverse learning needs. Committed to fostering inclusive environments that promote social and academic growth for all students.
Overview
4
4
Certifications
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher, Center Based DCD
Dist 831 Forest Lake Area Schools
Forest Lake, Mn
09.2023 - 06.2026
- Developed individualized education plans for students with diverse learning needs.
- Collaborated with parents and staff to support student progress and engagement.
- Implemented behavioral interventions to promote positive classroom behavior.
- Adapted teaching materials to accommodate various learning styles and abilities.
- Conducted assessments to identify student strengths and areas for improvement.
- Facilitated small group instruction to enhance academic skills and social interactions.
- Maintained accurate documentation of student performance and progress reports.
- Provided training and support to paraprofessionals working in the classroom setting.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Conducted assessments of student performance and provided feedback to parents.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
- Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Advocated for needs of the students with disabilities.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to include students in classroom activities.
- Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system.
- Assisted in the development of IEP goals based on data analysis.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events.
- Developed interesting and interactive learning methods tailored to help students with individual needs.
- Identified learning needs of students with disabilities and implemented appropriate interventions.
- Attended parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Developed IEP to leverage developmental practices and educational theories to achieve educational objectives.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's progress.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
- Solved student behavioral issues according to building expectations and codes of conduct.
- Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Assisted with classroom observations to identify developmental delays and behavioral issues.
- Supported diverse student populations through equitable instructional design and programming.
- Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
- Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
- Established and maintained dynamic working relationships with students and parents to support classroom objectives.
- Led students on field trips to enhance educational programs.
- Encouraged curiosity, exploration and problem-solving with tailored recreation programs.
- Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports and state-specific special education documentation.
- Designed and delivered personalized learning for each student and advocated for student inclusion and success in general education environments.
- Built relationships with students and guardians through active communication and positive feedback.
- Cultivated classroom environment focused on inclusion and growth, fostering both social and academic development.
- Offered hands-on learning opportunities to develop student self-esteem and life skills.
- Maintained student records in accordance with district standards.
- Analyzed student data and prescribed remediation and enrichment to meet learning needs.
- Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
- Enhanced students' physical, behavioral and social skills through class activities.
- Instructed students in standardized subjects as well as general learning strategies and skills for social development and character.
- Formed deep relationships with parents and students by engaging groups through conferences, emails, texts, and phone calls.
- Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
- Enhanced students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills through hands-on activities.
- Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
- Defined and communicated rules and enforced through approved disciplinary methods.
- Delivered tutoring sessions to help students grasp complex concepts in one-on-one settings.
Special Education Teacher
Dist 831 Forest Lake Area Schools
Forest Lake, Mn
08.2021 - 06.2023
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Implemented behavior management strategies in classroom settings.
- Collaborated with parents and staff to support student learning.
- Adapted instructional materials to enhance accessibility and engagement.
- Conducted assessments to monitor student progress and adjust teaching methods.
- Facilitated group activities to promote social skills among students.
- Maintained accurate records of student performance and interventions.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Conducted assessments of student performance and provided feedback to parents.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
- Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system.
- Assisted in the development of IEP goals based on data analysis.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events.
- Developed interesting and interactive learning methods tailored to help students with individual needs.
- Identified learning needs of students with disabilities and implemented appropriate interventions.
- Attended parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Developed IEP to leverage developmental practices and educational theories to achieve educational objectives.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's progress.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Solved student behavioral issues according to building expectations and codes of conduct.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
- Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Assisted with classroom observations to identify developmental delays and behavioral issues.
- Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
- Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
- Led students on field trips to enhance educational programs.
- Encouraged curiosity, exploration and problem-solving with tailored recreation programs.
- Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports and state-specific special education documentation.
- Designed and delivered personalized learning for each student and advocated for student inclusion and success in general education environments.
- Built relationships with students and guardians through active communication and positive feedback.
- Cultivated classroom environment focused on inclusion and growth, fostering both social and academic development.
- Offered hands-on learning opportunities to develop student self-esteem and life skills.
- Maintained student records in accordance with district standards.
- Analyzed student data and prescribed remediation and enrichment to meet learning needs.
- Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
- Enhanced students' physical, behavioral and social skills through class activities.
Special Education Teacher
Dist 833 South Washington County
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
09.2019 - 06.2021
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Collaborated with families to support student learning and development.
- Implemented behavioral management strategies in classroom settings.
- Adapted instructional materials for students with varying abilities.
- Facilitated communication between students, parents, and educational staff.
- Provided training and guidance to paraprofessionals and support staff.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Conducted assessments of student performance and provided feedback to parents.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
- Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Advocated for needs of the students with disabilities.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to include students in classroom activities.
- Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system.
- Assisted in the development of IEP goals based on data analysis.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events.
- Developed interesting and interactive learning methods tailored to help students with individual needs.
- Identified learning needs of students with disabilities and implemented appropriate interventions.
- Attended parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Developed IEP to leverage developmental practices and educational theories to achieve educational objectives.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's progress.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Solved student behavioral issues according to building expectations and codes of conduct.
- Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Organized field trips or community experiences to enhance learning opportunities for special education students.
- Assisted with classroom observations to identify developmental delays and behavioral issues.
- Supported diverse student populations through equitable instructional design and programming.
- Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
- Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
- Established and maintained dynamic working relationships with students and parents to support classroom objectives.
- Led students on field trips to enhance educational programs.
- Encouraged curiosity, exploration and problem-solving with tailored recreation programs.
- Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices.
- Participated in adapted physical education activities with students to encourage overall health and instill positive routines.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for students with special needs.
- Created and implemented compliant IEPs, progress reports and state-specific special education documentation.
- Designed and delivered personalized learning for each student and advocated for student inclusion and success in general education environments.
- Built relationships with students and guardians through active communication and positive feedback.
- Cultivated classroom environment focused on inclusion and growth, fostering both social and academic development.
- Offered hands-on learning opportunities to develop student self-esteem and life skills.
- Maintained student records in accordance with district standards.
- Analyzed student data and prescribed remediation and enrichment to meet learning needs.
- Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
- Enhanced students' physical, behavioral and social skills through class activities.
- Instructed students in standardized subjects as well as general learning strategies and skills for social development and character.
- Formed deep relationships with parents and students by engaging groups through conferences, emails, texts, and phone calls.
- Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
- Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Enhanced students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills through hands-on activities.
- Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
- Defined and communicated rules and enforced through approved disciplinary methods.
Work Based Learning Coordinator
Dist. 833 South Washington County
Cottage Grove, MN
09.2017 - 06.2019
- Coordinated work-based learning programs for diverse student populations.
- Developed partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions.
- Facilitated workshops to enhance student employability skills and career readiness.
- Managed student placements in internships and apprenticeships across various sectors.
- Monitored student progress and provided guidance throughout learning experiences.
- Organized events to connect students with potential employers and industry professionals.
- Evaluated program effectiveness and made recommendations for continuous improvement.
- Monitored student performance while they are working at various sites to ensure that they are meeting the required standards set by the employer.
- Maintained records of student participation in the program to ensure compliance with state regulations.
- Developed relationships with local businesses and organizations to foster partnerships for internships, co-ops, apprenticeships.
- Evaluated effectiveness of existing programs through surveys or focus groups with participants.
- Counseled students on how to make successful transitions from school into the workforce.
- Served as an advocate for students' rights within their respective workplaces.
- Coordinated with employers on work-based learning placements for students.
- Organized workshops to educate students about professional development topics such as communication skills, problem solving, and ethical decision making.
- Assisted employers in designing meaningful training activities for their employees who are participating in a work-based learning program.
- Conducted assessments of student learning outcomes, including academic performance, career development, and work experience.
- Developed and implemented strategies for student success in the workplace.
- Participated in job fairs or other recruitment events aimed at connecting employers with qualified candidates.
- Created and maintained a database of employers and job opportunities available to students.
- Collaborated with faculty members to assess student progress during work-based learning experiences.
- Implemented policies, procedures and programs to carry out educational standards and goals.
- Planned, directed and monitored instructional methods and content of educational and vocational programs.
Special Education Teacher
ISD 77 Mankato Area Public Schools
Mankato, Mn
09.2013 - 06.2017
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Collaborated with families to support student learning and development.
- Implemented behavioral management strategies in classroom settings.
- Adapted instructional materials for students with varying abilities.
- Facilitated communication between students, parents, and educational staff.
- Provided training and guidance to paraprofessionals and support staff.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Adapted curriculum materials as needed to meet individualized student needs.
- Collaborated with other educators and professionals to design instructional plans.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Collaborated closely with related services providers such as speech therapists.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
- Implemented behavior management systems that promote positive behaviors.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
- Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Advocated for needs of the students with disabilities.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Collaborated with general education teachers to include students in classroom activities.
- Served as an advocate for special education students within the school system.
- Assisted in the development of IEP goals based on data analysis.
- Developed and maintained individualized skill-appropriate lesson plans to promote and build student confidence.
- Maintained consistent and timely contact with parents about student behavior and upcoming events.
- Developed interesting and interactive learning methods tailored to help students with individual needs.
- Identified learning needs of students with disabilities and implemented appropriate interventions.
- Attended parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress.
- Monitored the educational progress of each student according to established timelines.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Solved student behavioral issues according to building expectations and codes of conduct.
- Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
- Incorporated interactive visual aids into student lesson plans to support learning objectives.
- Instructed special education classes using evidence-based practices.
- Organized field trips or community experiences to enhance learning opportunities for special education students.
- Assisted with classroom observations to identify developmental delays and behavioral issues.
- Supported diverse student populations through equitable instructional design and programming.
- Enhanced lessons using Smart Board technology and computers.
- Utilized technology resources such as online programs and assistive devices.
- Established and maintained dynamic working relationships with students and parents to support classroom objectives.
- Led students on field trips to enhance educational programs.
- Encouraged curiosity, exploration and problem-solving with tailored recreation programs.
- Facilitated student operation of augmented communication devices.
- Cultivated classroom environment focused on inclusion and growth, fostering both social and academic development.
- Built relationships with students and guardians through active communication and positive feedback.
- Maintained student records in accordance with district standards.
- Analyzed student data and prescribed remediation and enrichment to meet learning needs.
- Evaluated student needs to provide helpful resources and support.
- Enhanced students' physical, behavioral and social skills through class activities.
- Instructed students in standardized subjects as well as general learning strategies and skills for social development and character.
- Formed deep relationships with parents and students by engaging groups through conferences, emails, texts, and phone calls.
- Adapted instructional techniques to appropriate ages and skill levels of supervised students.
- Demonstrated appropriate behaviors using behavior modeling and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Enhanced students' sensory- and perceptual-motor skills through hands-on activities.
- Helped students learn to persevere with challenging tasks and build resilience for later educational efforts.
- Defined and communicated rules and enforced through approved disciplinary methods.
Transition Coordinator
ISD 77 Mankato Area Public Schools
Mankato, MN
09.2004 - 06.2013
- Facilitated student transitions between educational programs and support services.
- Coordinated training sessions for staff on transition processes and best practices.
- Monitored student progress and adjusted plans as necessary to ensure success.
- Engaged with community resources to enhance transition opportunities for students.
- Assisted in the development of workshops for students on post-secondary options.
- Maintained accurate records of student transitions and related documentation.
- Provided guidance on available resources for students with special needs transitioning out of school.
- Reached out to contacts to find the services that would be helpful to students.
- Advised transitioning students on how to apply for jobs or pursue higher education after high school graduation.
- Assisted patients using personal skills and policy expertise to manage smooth transitions.
- Collaborated with employers within the local community about potential job opportunities for transitioning students.
- Conducted assessments to determine students' abilities and skills needed for successful transition into adulthood.
- Monitored progress of transitioning students and provided feedback when necessary.
- Assisted in the development of transition plans for individuals with disabilities to ensure successful transitions from school to post-secondary activities.
- Developed individualized transition plans based on each student's needs and interests.
- Developed relationships with colleges and universities in order to facilitate admissions processes for transitioning students.
- Attended conferences and seminars regarding best practices in transition planning.
- Identified key sources of information that could be helpful to students, families, and other individuals.
- Facilitated communication between parents, teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders involved in the transition process.
- Identified appropriate community resources for transitioning students such as job training programs or vocational rehabilitation services.
- Connected individuals with relevant community resources and coordinated referrals.
- Managed load of multiple cases on consistent basis.
- Prepared students for self-management and decision-making responsibilities.
Substitute Teacher
ISD 77 Mankato Area Schools
Mankato, Minnesota
09.2002 - 06.2004
- Implemented lesson plans to engage students in diverse learning activities.
- Managed classroom behavior to maintain a positive learning environment.
- Adapted teaching methods to meet varied student learning styles and needs.
- Collaborated with teachers to ensure continuity of instruction and classroom routines.
- Encouraged positive behavior among students through effective communication techniques.
- Provided classroom instruction outlined in teacher's lesson plans.
- Enforced classroom routines to keep students on schedule and operating at consistent level.
- Provided instruction and guidance to students in the absence of a regular teacher.
- Promoted a safe and secure atmosphere within the classroom setting.
- Implemented school policies and procedures in the classroom.
- Monitored student progress throughout the day.
- Supported special needs students by providing individual instruction as needed.
- Engaged students in discussions to promote interest and drive learning.
- Provided notes and reports on school day activities to primary teacher.
- Requested as substitute teacher based on excellent referrals and trusted performance.
- Ensured that each student had access to appropriate materials and resources.
- Educated students in various subjects to provide seamless transition during absence of head teacher.
- Established and enforced rules for behavior and procedures to maintain order among students.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles.
- Remained up-to-date with emergency procedures to keep students and staff safe in emergency events.
- Provided feedback on assignments or projects given by the regular teacher.
- Utilized various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, audio-visual presentations.
Education
Master of Arts - Teaching And Learning
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Mankato, MN06-2012
Skills
- Instructional strategies
- Behavior management
- Group and individual instruction
- Classroom management
- Effective communication
- Problem solving
Certification
Learning Disabilities K-12
Timeline
Special Education Teacher, Center Based DCD
Dist 831 Forest Lake Area Schools
09.2023 - 06.2026
Special Education Teacher
Dist 831 Forest Lake Area Schools
08.2021 - 06.2023
Special Education Teacher
Dist 833 South Washington County
09.2019 - 06.2021
Work Based Learning Coordinator
Dist. 833 South Washington County
09.2017 - 06.2019
Special Education Teacher
ISD 77 Mankato Area Public Schools
09.2013 - 06.2017
Transition Coordinator
ISD 77 Mankato Area Public Schools
09.2004 - 06.2013
Substitute Teacher
ISD 77 Mankato Area Schools
09.2002 - 06.2004
Master of Arts - Teaching And Learning
Minnesota State University, Mankato