I have long had an interest in children with learning disabilities. During my three years working for both the Devereux Foundation and the Network for Behavior Change, I experienced the reward of helping students with special needs progress by employing such methodologies as Behavior Modification Plans and Charts, Study Island, Picture Exchange Communication and Board Maker software, as well as collaborating with the Treatment Team.
This practical experience later served to enhance my Special Education training and professional teaching experience for the Tewksbury School District, where I effectively bridged theory to application by employing movement-based and hands-on instruction in Inclusion classrooms ranging from grades 5-8, as well as in a Resource Room setting consisting of Fourth and Fifth graders on multiple academic skill levels.
Furthermore, I worked as a Home Bound Instructor for a student with behavioral/academic issues this past winter. I also collaborated with other teachers and child study team members to modify instruction and materials as per individual needs, often using technology to help make abstract concepts more meaningful to students. Some of these technologies included the Smart Exchange, Quia, Starmatica, the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives, and Smart Board Notebook files I created. Additionally, I created a Literature Circles program and led Writer’s Workshop activities on a daily basis during my Student Teaching Placement. All of these experiences leave no doubt and constantly reinforce that my calling is to work with children with learning disabilities as well as those with other behavioral, social, and emotional needs.
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