Special Education

My experiences in special education have strengthened my commitment to meeting students where they are and providing the individualized support they need to succeed. Through assessment, intervention, relationship-building, and collaboration, I strive to create an inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued, supported, and capable of growth.

Creating Resources

Designs and adapts instructional materials to make content accessible and support diverse learning needs in a special education setting.

• Creates graphic organizers, visual supports, and scaffolded worksheets to support student understanding

• Implements structured writing strategies such as TREE, TIDE, and the hamburger method to support organization and idea development

• Modifies assignments and breaks tasks into manageable steps to support student success

• Uses sentence frames and guided supports to assist students in reading and writing tasks

• Adapts materials based on IEP goals and individual student needs to support access to grade-level content

Collecting Data

Uses a variety of assessment tools and strategies to monitor student progress and inform instruction in a special education setting.

• Administers and analyzes assessments such as DIBELS, KTEA, and Wilson Reading to track growth in phonics, decoding, and fluency

• Uses small group instruction and 1:1 conferencing to gather ongoing data on student performance

• Collects data through observations, student work, and exit tickets across content areas

• Uses data to inform instructional decisions, including regrouping students, reteaching skills, and providing targeted support

• Monitors progress toward IEP goals and adjusts instruction based on student needs

Making Connections

Builds strong, supportive relationships with students to create a safe and engaging learning environment in a special education setting.

• Builds trust through small group instruction and 1:1 conferencing

• Gets to know students' strengths, interests, and needs to better support their learning

• Uses positive reinforcement and consistent routines to support student confidence and behavior

• Creates an environment where students feel comfortable taking risks, asking questions, and participating