Background After working in the field of Special Education for nearly 30 years and raising my own child with learning differences, I decided to utilize my extensive professional knowledge and personal experience to guide families who have children with disabilities so they can navigate and understand the road ahead. I believe that through positive communication and using a child-centered collaborative approach, I can help empower parents to be effective members of their child’s special education team.
Specialties My specialties include learning disabilities, spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, low incidence populations, students with complex support needs, and Secondary Transition as required by State and Federal Law.
Experience I worked as a researcher in the area of inclusion for all students, and developed nationally recognized best practices for students transitioning into the world post-high school. I brought my knowledge to my many roles within the Special Education Department in a large suburban public district.
I provided direct support, guidance and IEP/504 plan coordination and management to students with a range of disabilities, collaborating with families and school team members to bring about appropriate supports for each student’s success across environments.
As Transition Coordinator on the secondary level, I provided consultation and guidance to students and parents as they navigated the Transition process. My areas of specialty include college guidance for students with disabilities, and coordinating school to work programs and training opportunities.
In addition, I developed and created programming for students with moderate to severe developmental intellectual disabilities. I introduced a Functional Life Skills model which focused on inclusion, functional curriculum, community based instruction, and work exploration.
Advocacy I have worked with families across the U.S. as an advocate to aide and guide them in securing for their children: accommodations and/or modifications that led to greater independence; assistive technology; meaningful measurable goals; inclusive placements in general education and the least restrictive environment; implementation of behavior and social skills programming, and; life skills and job training experiences.
I look forward to working with you to empower your child to become an independent, self-confident learner.
