Tara Kokorudz
Wood River,IL
Summary
A dedicated and compassionate Special Education teacher with over 15 years of experience creating inclusive, tailored learning environments for students with diverse needs. Skilled in developing IEPs, implementing behavioral interventions, and utilizing adaptive technology to improve academic and social outcomes.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Wood River-Hartford E S D 15
Wood River, IL
08.2023 - Current
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) for diverse student needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance support services for students with disabilities.
- Designed engaging lesson plans that incorporate adaptive learning strategies and technology.
- Monitored student progress and adjusted instructional methods to ensure academic success.
- Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
- Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
Special Education Teacher
Alton CUSD #11
Alton, IL
08.2011 - Current
- 2nd and 3rd grade cross-categorical teacher
- Experienced in Pre-K through 3rd grade classrooms
- IEP Case Manager by writing IEPs, collecting and analyzing data, holding annual IEP meetings, and implementing IEPs
- Providing best accommodations to meet students’ academic and behavioral needs
- Collaborating with grade level teams to analyze data and best practices, along with instruction planning
- Communicate with families to engage in their students’ learning
- Manage whole class, small group and individual behaviors by positive reinforcement and creating a class reward system
- Differentiated and implemented engaging activities each lesson while still meeting common core standards
PBIS Universal Coach
Alton CUSD #11
Alton, IL
08.2017 - 08.2019
- Compile discipline data each month for the building to share with staff on trends that are most occurring
- Targeted areas that need improvements by creating incentives and providing encouragement to both students and staff
- Plan good behavior celebrations monthly, quarterly, and yearly for the whole school
Teacher Assistant
Alton CUSD #11
Alton, IL
08.2009 - 08.2011
- Collaborated with lead teacher and grade level team
- Managed small group in both math and literacy to build foundational skills
- Collected data on student’s behavioral goals
Education
LBS1 Special Education Endorsement -
Greenville College
Godfrey, IL08-2011
Bachelor’s Degree - Early Childhood Education, Childhood Psychology
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
05-2004
Skills
- Strong Communicator
- Relationship Builder
- Natural Leader
- Organized
- Problem Solver
- Quick Learner
- Personable
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Wood River-Hartford E S D 15
08.2023 - Current
PBIS Universal Coach
Alton CUSD #11
08.2017 - 08.2019
Special Education Teacher
Alton CUSD #11
08.2011 - Current
Teacher Assistant
Alton CUSD #11
08.2009 - 08.2011
Bachelor’s Degree - Early Childhood Education, Childhood Psychology
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
LBS1 Special Education Endorsement -
Greenville College