Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Sherri McLaren

Baltmore,Maryland

Summary

Accomplished Special Needs Teacher's Assistant at Anne Arundel County Schools, adept in classroom management and autism spectrum understanding. Excelled in creating adaptive learning environments, enhancing student engagement by 30%. Skilled in visual supports implementation and fostering positive student outcomes through individualized support and collaborative educational strategies.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

Special Needs Teacher's Assistant

Anne Arundel County Schools
08.2014 - Current
  • Kept classrooms clean, neat, and properly sanitized for student health and classroom efficiency.
  • Handed out classroom materials, like pencils, paper, and crayons.
  • Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
  • Supported student learning objectives through personalized and small group assistance.
  • Maintained positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.
  • Offered student support through special accommodations, extra assistance, and assessments.
  • Collaborated with teacher to create customized classroom environment integral to students' needs.
  • Supported teacher in development of individual learning strategies.
  • Oversaw class of students in absence of instructor.
  • Set up visual aids, equipment, and classroom displays to support teacher's lesson delivery.
  • Adapted equipment and technology, boosting student engagement and motivation.
  • Documented student behaviors, interventions, and outcomes to enable lead teacher to address pertinent issues.
  • Encouraged students to participate in school activities and programs to promote well-roundedness and increase confidence.
  • Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes.

Behavior Technician

Whole Self Center
04.2017 - Current
  • Provided one-on-one support to clients with autism spectrum disorders, addressing unique behavioral needs.
  • Implemented crisis intervention strategies when necessary to maintain a safe environment for both staff and clients alike during high-stress situations.
  • Assisted clients in identifying and setting goals to promote positive behavior development.
  • Enhanced client progress by implementing individualized behavior intervention plans.
  • Assisted in data collection and analysis, contributing to the ongoing evaluation of client progress.
  • Promoted positive interactions with children with ADHD, Autism and oppositional defiance behavior by using visual supports, simplifying communication, and utilizing stress scales to turn emotions into concrete concepts.
  • Developed strong rapport with clients and their families, fostering trust and open communication throughout the therapeutic process.
  • Used Rethink Behavioral to document patient information, progress notes, and treatment plans.

Behavioral Technician

Rise For Autism
09.2021 - Current
  • Maintained accurate data collection on client progress, enabling effective analysis and modification of treatment plans as needed.
  • Reduced problem behaviors by teaching clients appropriate coping strategies and replacement behaviors.
  • Promoted a safe and nurturing environment for clients, ensuring their comfort and well-being throughout therapy sessions.
  • Adapted therapy materials based on individual needs, ensuring accessibility for all clients regardless of ability level or learning style.
  • Increased daily living skills through systematic instruction and practice during natural routines.
  • Enhanced communication skills for clients with autism spectrum disorder through the use of visual supports and social stories.
  • Established rapport with clients, fostering trust and engagement in therapeutic activities.
  • Attended regular clinical supervision sessions to review client progress and receive guidance on treatment modifications.
  • Mentored new Behavioral Technicians by providing feedback on their performance and sharing best practices from my own experiences.
  • Used Rethink to document patient information, progress notes, and treatment plans.
  • Assisted in creating visual schedules and other environmental supports that facilitated client independence and selfregulation.

Special Needs Teacher's Aide

Fountain Fort Carson District 8
08.2012 - 06.2014
  • Maintained positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.
  • Offered student support through special accommodations, extra assistance, and assessments.
  • Interacted physically and verbally with students throughout each day.
  • Collaborated with teacher to create customized classroom environment integral to students' needs.
  • Observed individuals or groups of students in variety of settings to maintain safe and positive learning environment.
  • Promoted good study habits and student independence to improve quality of student outcomes.

Education

High School Diploma -

Port Huron Northern High School
Port Huron, MI
06.1988

Skills

  • Visual Supports Implementation
  • Reinforcement Procedures
  • Picture Exchange Communication System
  • Feeding and Mealtime Assistance
  • Toilet Training Support
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Heart saver CPR AED
  • Assistive technology knowledge
  • Classroom Management
  • Autism spectrum understanding
  • Activity Planning
  • Motor Skills Development
  • Individual Instruction
  • Smartboard
  • Classroom Organization

Accomplishments

Coach for Unified Sports Team with county and state champion.

Timeline

Behavioral Technician

Rise For Autism
09.2021 - Current

Behavior Technician

Whole Self Center
04.2017 - Current

Special Needs Teacher's Assistant

Anne Arundel County Schools
08.2014 - Current

Special Needs Teacher's Aide

Fountain Fort Carson District 8
08.2012 - 06.2014

High School Diploma -

Port Huron Northern High School
Sherri McLaren