Education professional with proven background in fostering student success and delivering impactful educational programs. Known for collaborative approach, consistently achieving positive results in diverse team settings. Adaptable and reliable, leveraging communication and organizational skills to meet evolving needs and goals.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Representative (Elected Position)
Elk Grove Education Association
08.2024 - Current
Elected to represent and advocate for EGEA members on special education matters within the district. Served as a liaison between members and union leadership, ensuring effective communication and organizing around key issues. Promoted and facilitated professional development opportunities, including special education training and workshops. Addressed member questions and concerns with accuracy, confidentiality, and care. Collaborated with stakeholders to enhance understanding of special education policies, rights, and best practices. Demonstrated strong leadership, advocacy, and organizational skills while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for educators and students with diverse learning needs. Participated in various working groups related to special education.
Education Specialist (Adult Transition Teacher)
Elk Grove Unified School District
06.2019 - Current
Provide instruction, assessment and program planning for special education students. Monitor and evaluate student progress through data collection. Assist students of adult age (18-22) with finding meaningful vocational, volunteer, and social learning opportunities in the community. Write legally defensible IEPs with timeline compliance. Serve as an informational resource for students, parents, district personnel, and community organizations. Write lesson plans according to academic standards and adjust to fit IEP goals of individual students (Essential Understanding). Additional responsibilities: Mentor teacher (for interns and REACH mentees), curriculum workshop presenter, ESN/SCC consulting teacher to Strategies department chair.
Part-Time Adjunct Professor
National University
06.2019 - Current
Taught graduate and undergraduate courses including Reading and Literacy for Special Education, Education Law and Compliance, Transition Planning, and CalTPA Seminars A/B. Designed and delivered engaging instruction emphasizing inclusive practices, legal compliance, and effective literacy strategies for diverse learners. Guided teacher candidates through CalTPA requirements, fostering professional growth and competency in instructional design and assessment. Collaborated with faculty and administrators to align curriculum with state and credentialing standards. Provided individualized feedback and mentorship, supporting future educators in developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in special education settings.
Education Specialist (Floating Special Education Teacher)
Elk Grove Unified School District
08.2018 - 06.2019
Acting administrative designee at IEP meetings. Consult and mentor teachers in classroom management, lesson planning, classroom structure, behavior management, and statewide testing. Guide teachers in IEP compliance for district standards, curriculum implementation, and classroom accommodations/modifications for integrative students. Collaborate with school site administrators, general education teachers, and special education team for students in kindergarten through adult transition (programs: PALSS, ILS, ATP, and TAC) for the best offer of FAPE.
Education Specialist (PALSS - Highly Intensive, Intensive and Integrative levels)
Elk Grove Unified School District
07.2015 - 08.2018
Provide instruction, assessment, and program planning for special education students with autism. Monitor and evaluate student progress and behavior. Research, obtain, and provide instructional materials for special education services. Write legally defensible IEPs with timeline compliance. Serve as an informational resource for students, parents, district personnel, and community organizations. Write lesson plans according to Common Core Standards and adjust to fit the IEP goals of individual students (Essential Understanding).
Substitute Teacher and Classroom Support (K-8th grade)
California Montessori Project
07.2012 - 08.2018
Highly requested substitute and classroom support professional in a Montessori K–6 environment. Supported individualized, hands-on learning by implementing Montessori principles and fostering student independence, curiosity, and collaboration. Adapted quickly to diverse classroom settings and learning needs, maintaining consistency and structure. Collaborated closely with lead teachers to deliver differentiated instruction and classroom management. Encouraged social-emotional growth and academic engagement through positive reinforcement and student-centered guidance. Recognized for reliability, flexibility, and strong rapport with students, staff, and families in nurturing, child-focused educational settings.
Substitute Teacher
Elk Grove Unified School District
05.2013 - 07.2015
Highly sought-after substitute teacher with extensive experience supporting diverse learners in special education classrooms (Learning Center, RSP, SCC classrooms). Skilled in adhering to IEPs, maintaining structured and inclusive learning environments, and adapting lessons to meet a wide range of student needs. Collaborated effectively with teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff to ensure continuity of instruction and behavioral support. Recognized for reliability, professionalism, and strong classroom management. Provided student-centered instruction that promoted engagement, independence, and academic growth. Successfully filled both short- and long-term assignments, building strong relationships with students, staff, and administrators across multiple grade levels and programs.
Education
Master’s Degree - Special Education
National University
Sacramento
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
National University
Sacramento
Skills
13 years of classroom experience
Extensive IEP compliance training
Highly effective verbal and written communicator
Organized, detail-oriented, and professional
Strong ability to build relationships with others
Unique Learning Solutions
Affiliations
DKG-Delta Kappa Gamma - International Society for Key Women Educators
Certification
Education Specialist (mod/sev) - expires 2023
LAD authorization - expires 2028
Additional Duties/Committees
Site Leadership Team
ELAC Coordinator
PAR Panel Member
PAR Mentor
Induction Mentor
Timeline
Special Education Representative (Elected Position)
Elk Grove Education Association
08.2024 - Current
Education Specialist (Adult Transition Teacher)
Elk Grove Unified School District
06.2019 - Current
Part-Time Adjunct Professor
National University
06.2019 - Current
Education Specialist (Floating Special Education Teacher)
Elk Grove Unified School District
08.2018 - 06.2019
Education Specialist (PALSS - Highly Intensive, Intensive and Integrative levels)
Elk Grove Unified School District
07.2015 - 08.2018
Substitute Teacher
Elk Grove Unified School District
05.2013 - 07.2015
Substitute Teacher and Classroom Support (K-8th grade)
Special Education Specialist, Level 2 SCC at Elk Grove Unified School DistrictSpecial Education Specialist, Level 2 SCC at Elk Grove Unified School District