AMY R. CHURCHILL
Educational Leader
Mount Hermon
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience in organizational management and strategic planning, adept at driving efficiency through innovative problem-solving and system optimization. Known for fostering strong relationships with teachers, staff, and families while inspiring team members to exceed departmental objectives. Expertise in recruitment, training, and mentorship enhances team performance and professional growth. Demonstrated success in developing program budgets and consistently achieving fiscal targets underscores a commitment to organizational excellence.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
5
5
Certifications
Work History
Director of Special Education
Scotts Valley Unified School District
07.2022 - Current
- Lead and oversee all special education programs (preschool-post secondary), ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations
- Collaborate closely with district and site administrators, teachers, and parents to enhance student outcomes
- Develop, manage and optimize special education budget of 8M, ensuring responsible spending while maintaining high-quality services
- Spearhead recruitment efforts to attract and retain highly qualified special education staff
- Collaborate with site administrators on staff evaluations and supervision of over 40 employees (teachers, therapists, and instructional assistants)
- Develop and implement programs that support student inclusion and independence
- Collaborating across site and district leadership teams on strategic planning and implementing LCAP goals
First Step Program Director
Via Services
12.2014 - 08.2019
- Provided leadership, supervision, and management of the FS programs for children birth-8 years old, including program development and implementation
- Responsible for staff recruitment, hiring, training, and management
- Oversaw 1,200 Initial Early Start Assessments through partnerships with SCCOE and San Andreas Regional Center
- Conducted Continuing Education courses for staff and outside agencies such as FIRST 5, KidScope, and other nonprofits
- Developed and monitored department budget of 4M, fiscal management, and control
- Supervised 15 direct reports and 10 contractor staff (teachers, therapist, and instructional assistants)
- Researched and implemented program improvements to diversify revenue
- Collaborated with the Advancement team to increase donation revenue and participate in fundraising efforts
- Supported implementation of Grants (Federal and State)
Program Specialist - Special Education (Part-Time Contract)
San Lorenzo Valley School District
08.2018 - 07.2019
- Coordinated all preschool incoming special education referrals
- Attended preschool transition and IEP meetings as Administrative Designee
- Worked closely with the Special Education Director on program placements
- Observed special education students to determine necessary accommodations and modifications
- Wrote Prior Written Notices when requests for special education assessments were denied
- Represented the district at SELPA meetings for Early Start services
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Via Services
10.2018 - 04.2019
- Directed a 20+ member Board of Directors on strategic objectives to meet the mission and vision of the organization
- Led executive staff overseeing 30 year-round employees and 180 seasonal employees
- Maintained strong relationships with community partners, funders, donors, and political leaders
- Ensured high-quality services across the organization
- Managed an annual budget of ~$5.7M and worked on infrastructure improvements
- Worked closely with the Advancement Director on grants, corporate gifts, and fundraising events
- Oversaw Grant funding for organization for state and federal revenue sources
Education
Leaders in Education Administration Program (LEAP) - Educational Leadership And Management
Santa Clara County Office of Education
02-2022
Master of Arts - Speech Pathology with Honors
New York City School at Lehman College
Bronx, NY12-2004
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Disorders (Cum Laude)
SUNY New Paltz
New Paltz, NY08-2001
Skills
- Educational Leadership & Compliance
(emphasis in special education )
- Inclusion & Program Development
- Parent & Community Engagement
- Student-Centered Decision Making
Certification
California State Speech-Language Pathology Service Credential
Timeline
Director of Special Education
Scotts Valley Unified School District
07.2022 - Current
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Via Services
10.2018 - 04.2019
Program Specialist - Special Education (Part-Time Contract)
San Lorenzo Valley School District
08.2018 - 07.2019
First Step Program Director
Via Services
12.2014 - 08.2019
Master of Arts - Speech Pathology with Honors
New York City School at Lehman College
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Disorders (Cum Laude)
SUNY New Paltz
Leaders in Education Administration Program (LEAP) - Educational Leadership And Management
Santa Clara County Office of Education