Tamara Combs
Summary
Committed special education professional with over 20 years of experience improving support for students with learning differences and fostering inclusive environments. Proven leader in compliance initiatives and special education program management, with a strong focus on professional development. Skilled in problem-solving and team building, with a track record of maintaining detailed records to achieve measurable outcomes.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Instructional Support Teacher
Fulton County Schools
08.2011 - Current
- Manage compliance protocols and oversee FTE reporting, ensuring alignment with district and state requirements.
- Develop and maintain exceptional education student schedules, including accommodations for state testing.
- Evaluate and assess IEPs and school-based reports for accuracy and compliance.
- Lead professional learning for special and general education staff, enhancing instructional quality and compliance.
- Conduct Manifestation Determination Review meetings, and resolve disputes through investigative processes.
- Supervise special education teachers and paraprofessionals while monitoring discipline records for students with special needs.
- Maintain accurate records and oversee the preparation of required reports for district and state compliance.
Special Education Teacher & Department Chair
Fulton County Schools
08.2010 - 05.2011
- Implemented diverse teaching methods (visual, tactile, auditory) to meet the needs of students with learning differences.
- Supported educators by developing behavior strategies and differentiating instruction techniques.
- Collaborated with the Student Support Team for students in the Response to Intervention (RTI) process.
- Fostered meaningful partnerships with parents and stakeholders to drive student success.
- Delivered workshops on RTI processes to Fulton County educators.
Special Education Teacher
Fulton County Schools
08.2007 - 05.2010
- Conducted monthly compliance checks, managed student schedules, and provided achievement assessments.
- Conducted workshops on RTI processes while collaborating with curriculum support to strengthen instructional methods.
- Managed IEP transition meetings for transitioning 6th graders and matriculating 8th graders.
- Led workshops on compliance and RTI for district employees.
Special Education Teacher
Atlanta Public School System
08.2006 - 05.2007
- Provided homebound services and organized Exceptional Children’s Week programs.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress towards IEP goals.
- Participated in professional development activities related to teaching strategies for special education students.
- Facilitated small group instruction tailored for individual student needs.
Education
Education Leadership (Ed.S.) - Educational Leadership
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA12-2018
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Special Education
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA05-2008
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Curriculum and Instruction
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN08-2005
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Psychology
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA08-1996
Skills
- Special Education Program Oversight
- Professional Development Facilitation
- IEP Process Management
- Conflict Resolution and Investigations
- Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) reporting
- IEP Compliance
Certification
Completed 90% of special education reevaluations with a high degree of accuracy during the 2024-2025 school year.
Streamlined IEP documentation process, reducing administrative time by 40%.
Timeline
Instructional Support Teacher
Fulton County Schools
08.2011 - Current
Special Education Teacher & Department Chair
Fulton County Schools
08.2010 - 05.2011
Special Education Teacher
Fulton County Schools
08.2007 - 05.2010
Special Education Teacher
Atlanta Public School System
08.2006 - 05.2007
Education Leadership (Ed.S.) - Educational Leadership
Kennesaw State University
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Special Education
University of West Georgia
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Curriculum and Instruction
Walden University
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Psychology
University of West Georgia