Shelley Nelson
Beresford,US
Summary
Versatile Special Education Teacher with focus on individual student needs across academia and emotional development. Empathetic and accommodating in design and implementation of hands-on lessons, catering to diverse learning abilities. Proficient in employing constant communication, patience and positive reinforcement in team efforts to deliver exceptional educational tools, fostering academic achievement.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Harrisburg School District
Harrisburg, SD
08.2025 - Current
- Developed tailored lesson plans to meet diverse learning needs of students with disabilities.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students..
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistency in enforcing rules.
- Conducted ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and adjust instructional methods accordingly
- Monitored student progress closely, intervening proactively when necessary to ensure steady growth and achievement of learning goals.
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Sioux Falls School District
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
08.2015 - 05.2025
- 61Provided instruction in academic, social-emotional, communication, motor skills development, and adaptive behavior domains.
- Utilized positive behavioral interventions to support student success.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate student progress and identify areas of need.
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans for 16 children with special needs.
- Collaborated with other teachers, administrators, and parents on behalf of students.
- Provided specialized instruction for young children who are at risk for developmental delays or have diagnosed disabilities.
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Southeast Area Cooperative
Beresford, SD
08.2004 - 05.2015
- Participated actively in team meetings related to program planning and implementation.
- Implemented evidence-based practices while working with families to ensure successful outcomes for children with disabilities.
- Managed classroom resources, materials, activities, and equipment effectively.
- Demonstrated expertise in adapting curriculum to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
- Provided specialized instruction for young children who are at risk for developmental delays or have diagnosed disabilities.
Education
Master of Arts (M.A.) - Special Education Candidate
Augustana University
Sioux Fall, SD, US12-2025
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Elementary Education
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD, US05-1992
Associate of Arts (A.A.) - General
Bethany Lutheran College
Mankato, MN, US05-1989
Skills
- IEP development
- Progress monitoring
- Classroom organization
- Assessment strategies
- Visual supports
- Parent-teacher communication
- Literacy strategies
- Math strategies
- Differentiated instruction
- Relationship building
- Social skills development
- Small group instruction
- Competent in smartboard technology
Certification
- Early Childhood
- Early Childhood Special Education
- K-8 Math/Science
- Current South Dakota Teaching Certificate
- Masters in K-12 Special Education
Languages
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Elementary
Interests
- Participate in local theater productions, enhancing my public speaking and teamwork skills
- I have a passion for photography and editing photos
- Creative Writing-future ambition to write a children's book
- Music
Timeline
Elementary Special Education Teacher
Harrisburg School District
08.2025 - Current
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Sioux Falls School District
08.2015 - 05.2025
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
Southeast Area Cooperative
08.2004 - 05.2015
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Elementary Education
University of South Dakota
Associate of Arts (A.A.) - General
Bethany Lutheran College
Master of Arts (M.A.) - Special Education Candidate
Augustana University
COMMUNITY SERVICE
- Dalesburg Baptist Church, Sunday School Music Leader, Beresford, SD, 2003-08, 2013-05, Conducted rehearsals to ensure that all performers were prepared for upcoming performances.
- Dalesburg Baptist Church, Youth Group Leader, Beresford, SD, 1993-09, 1998-05, 2013-09, 2017-05, Supported youth members' growth and spiritual development by establishing trusting personal relationships.