Dynamic education specialist with extensive experience at La Jolla Elementary School, adept in IEP development and individualized instruction. Proven ability to foster inclusive learning environments and advocate for student needs, enhancing social-emotional growth and academic success. Skilled in collaboration with families and teams, ensuring tailored support for diverse learners.
I worked directly with students who had complex disabilities, ensuring that they received the support they needed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. As part of a collaborative team, I was responsible for both providing specialized instruction and managing student cases to ensure compliance with IEP (Individualized Education Program) goals.
My key responsibilities included:
Designing and delivering IEPs for students with a range of disabilities, adapting the curriculum to meet their unique learning needs, and ensuring their full participation in the school community.
Providing direct, one-on-one, and small group instruction to students, focusing on academic skills, social-emotional development, communication, and life skills.
· Collaborating with general education teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists to create an integrated support system for students.
Managing the development, implementation, and ongoing monitoring of IEPs, ensuring that students' goals are being met, and adjusting instructional strategies as needed.
· Acting as the primary point of contact for parents and guardians, regularly communicating student progress, addressing concerns, and fostering positive relationships with families.
· Leading IEP meetings, working with multidisciplinary teams to create meaningful goals, and ensuring all legal and procedural requirements were met.
· Supporting students' transitions between grade levels and different educational settings, ensuring continuity of care and services.
Monitoring and documenting student progress, preparing reports for IEP meetings, and providing data to inform decision-making and program improvement.
Managing the schedules and duties of classroom assistants, ensuring that their support aligns with students' individual needs, and provides effective assistance in instructional and behavioral interventions.
I was responsible for creating and delivering an engaging, age-appropriate educational experience for 4- and 5-year-olds. I worked closely with the regular teaching staff to maintain consistency and foster a positive, nurturing classroom environment for the students.
key responsibilities included:
· Designing and implementing lesson plans that aligned with district standards and were tailored to meet the developmental needs of young learners.
· Providing individualized instruction and support to ensure that each child made progress in literacy, numeracy, social-emotional development, and fine motor skills.
Working closely with special education students to help them achieve their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, offering differentiated instruction and accommodations as needed.
· Managing classroom behavior with a focus on positive reinforcement and creating a safe, supportive environment.
· Integrating the Leader in Me curriculum into daily activities, teaching students foundational leadership principles such as responsibility, goal setting, and teamwork.
· Encouraging students to take ownership of their actions and decisions, fostering self-confidence and personal growth.
· Communicating regularly with parents and guardians to share updates on student progress, concerns, and achievements.
Collaborating with other educators and school staff to create a cohesive learning experience for students.
· Maintaining accurate student records, including assessments and progress reports, to track individual growth and development.
Special education expertise
IEP development & implementation
Individualized instruction
Classroom management
Inclusive learning environments
Behavior intervention strategies
Assistive technology use
Data-driven teaching
Collaboration with families & teams
Advocacy for student needs
Early childhood education strategies
Social-emotional learning support
Play-based instruction
Developmentally appropriate practices
Foundational literacy & numeracy
Positive behavior reinforcement
Circle time facilitation
Kindergarten readiness preparation
Parent communication & engagement
Classroom routines & structure