Results-driven professional with robust background in special services management. Proven track record of developing impactful programs and fostering collaborative team environments. Known for adaptability and reliability, with strong skills in strategic planning, stakeholder communication, and community involvement.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
District Wide Director of Special Services
O’FALLON SCHOOL DISTRICT 203
07.2020 - Current
Established strong relationships with community partners, fostering collaborative support networks for students.
Promoted a culture of continuous improvement through regular evaluations and feedback sessions with team members.
Facilitated successful transitions for students by coordinating services among school, family, and community agencies.
Assisted with preparation and administration of service budget.
Championed inclusion practices within the school environment, fostering positive attitudes towards diverse learning needs.
Oversaw grant writing efforts, securing funding for essential special services programs and resources.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop tailored programs for individual students' needs.
Achieved improved satisfaction rates through effective communication with staff and families.
Advocated for students'' rights within the larger educational system, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
Special Services Coordinator - Milburn Campus
O’FALLON SCHOOL DISTRICT 203
06.2016 - 06.2020
Collaborated with faculty and staff to develop inclusive classroom environments for all students.
Conducted regular assessments of student needs and adjusted accommodations accordingly, guaranteeing an optimal learning environment.
Managed complex cases for students with disabilities, ensuring their needs were met and accommodations provided.
Evaluated the effectiveness of existing programs and recommended necessary adjustments, resulting in improved service delivery.
Advocated on behalf of students and families during district meetings, ensuring their voices were heard and considered in decision-making processes.
Coordinated multidisciplinary team meetings to ensure comprehensive support plans were developed for each eligible student.
Developed strong relationships with community partners to expand resources available to students in need of special services.
Organized workshops and training sessions for teachers on inclusivity and disability awareness, fostering a supportive school culture.
Special Educator/Study Skills Coordinator
O’FALLON SCHOOL DISTRICT 203
08.2007 - 05.2016
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Evaluated student progress regularly using various assessment methods, ensuring accurate measurement of skill development and areas requiring additional support.
Provided targeted instructional support to struggling learners, identifying specific areas for improvement and designing effective intervention plans.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for students with special needs.
Delivered effective and differentiated classroom instruction to range of neurodiverse students.
Advocated for rights and needs of students with special education requirements, ensuring access to appropriate resources and accommodations.
Organized and led professional development sessions for colleagues on inclusive education strategies, improving school-wide support for students with disabilities.
Guided students through transition planning processes, preparing them for post-secondary education and employment opportunities.
Encouraged parent and guardian involvement in educational process, enhancing home-school connection and supporting student achievement.
Special Educator
O’FALLON DISTRICT 90
12.2005 - 05.2007
Delivered differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities within the classroom setting.
Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to monitor student progress and refine instructional methods accordingly.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive educational programs for students with disabilities.
Monitored ongoing performance of students through regular evaluations, adjusting interventions as needed to address gaps in understanding or skill acquisition.
Attended professional development workshops to stay current on innovative teaching practices in special education settings.
Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
Special Education Teacher
O’FALLON DISTRICT 90
12.2005 - 05.2006
Instruction of students in grades 7-8 in special education curriculum
Subjects taught included: math, English, Social Studies, and History
Education
Graduate Coursework - Sp. Education Director Specific, Special Education Finance, Law, and Supervision
Southern Illinois University
Edwardsville, IL
12.2019
Master of Science - Education Administration
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL
12.2008
Bachelor of Science - Education, Special Education (LBS 1)
Grade 7 ELA Teacher-ELA Department Coordinator 6-8 at Naperville Community School District 203 (LJHS)Grade 7 ELA Teacher-ELA Department Coordinator 6-8 at Naperville Community School District 203 (LJHS)