Elizabeth Smoak
Manteo
Summary
Dynamic Special Education Specialist with a proven track record at Dare County Schools, enhancing student achievement through individualized education plans and MTSS interventions. Excels in adaptability and communication, ensuring tailored educational strategies that meet diverse student needs.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Education Specialist
Dare County Schools
08.2022 - Current
- Enhanced student learning by developing and implementing individualized education plans tailored to each student''s needs.
- Developed and implemented IEPs for 15-20 students with learning disabilities, autism, and emotional/behavioral disorders
- Utilized MTSS framework to provide targeted academic and behavioral interventions, resulting in 30% improvement in student achievement scores
- Collaborated with general education teachers to modify curriculum and provide accommodations for inclusive classroom settings
- Conducted ongoing assessments and progress monitoring to evaluate intervention effectiveness and adjust strategies as needed
- Implemented evidence-based practices that promoted social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth in students with disabilities.
- Strengthened family involvement through regular communication channels like parent-teacher conferences and monthly newsletters highlighting student achievements.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to assess students'' needs, develop interventions, and monitor progress for improved outcomes.
- Mentored new special education teachers offering guidance on effective instructional techniques and classroom management strategies.
- Established positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, fostering a supportive community for academic success.
- Taught students across multiple classifications and degrees of special needs.
- Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
- Led professional development workshops on special education topics for fellow educators increasing their understanding of best practices.
- Developed strong partnerships with community organizations to provide additional resources and support for students with disabilities.
MTSS Core Team
Dare County Schools
08.2022 - Current
- Built trusting relationships with stakeholders through regular communication updates on progress reports and project status meetings.
- Enhanced team productivity by implementing efficient project management methodologies and prioritizing tasks.
- Promoted innovation by encouraging creative problem-solving approaches among the core team members when facing obstacles during projects execution phase.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes that led to more informed choices and better outcomes for the team''s projects.
- Reduced project completion times by streamlining communication channels and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Education
Master of Science - Special Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA05-2025
Bachelor of Science - Environmental And Natural Resources
Clemson University
Clemson, SC12-2018
Skills
- Autism: Knowledge of autism spectrum disorders and ability to implement specific programs for students with autism
- Behavioral Issues: Experience in handling and managing behavioral challenges in the classroom (CPI certification)
- IEPs (Individualized Education Programs): Experience in developing and implementing IEPs
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Familiarity with ABA techniques and their application in special education settings
- Developmental Disabilities: Knowledge of various developmental disabilities and appropriate teaching strategies
- Adaptability: Ability to adjust teaching methods to suit various learning styles and needs
- Communication: Strong skills in communicating with students, parents, and other professionals
- Problem-solving: Capacity to address challenges and find effective solutions in the classroom
- Patience: Ability to work calmly and persistently with students who have diverse learning needs
- Creativity: Skills in developing multi-sensory lesson plans and incorporating various teaching methods
- Classroom Management: Ability to create and maintain a positive learning environment
- Progress Monitoring: Skills in tracking and assessing student performance
- Collaboration: Experience working with multidisciplinary teams, including psychologists, parents, and other professionals
- Differentiated Instruction: Ability to modify curriculum and tailor teaching approaches to meet individual student needs
Timeline
Special Education Specialist
Dare County Schools
08.2022 - Current
MTSS Core Team
Dare County Schools
08.2022 - Current
Master of Science - Special Education
Liberty University
Bachelor of Science - Environmental And Natural Resources
Clemson University
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