Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Karen O'Brien

Coolidge

Summary

Accomplished Special Education Teacher with expertise in differentiated instruction and classroom management. At Florence Unified School District, developed individualized education plans, enhancing student engagement and success. Skilled in relationship building and instructional adaptation, fostering inclusive environments. Proven track record in improving student outcomes through innovative strategies and effective communication.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Special Education Teacher

Florence Unified School District
07.2020 - Current
  • Develop individualized education plans for students with diverse learning needs.
  • Monitored student progress and provided feedback to enhance learning outcomes.
  • Implemented behavior management strategies to support student engagement and focus.
  • Collaborated with special education staff to create inclusive classroom environments.
  • Adapted instructional materials to accommodate varying educational levels and disabilities.

Special Education Teacher/7th Grade Math Teacher

Balsz School District
07.2014 - 06.2020
  • Designed engaging lesson plans incorporating assistive technology for diverse learners.
  • Developed IEPs tailored to individual student needs, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
  • Monitored student progress through assessments, adjusting instruction as needed.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.

Special Education Teacher

Springfield School District 186
08.2013 - 05.2014
  • Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.
  • Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
  • Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.

Education

Master of Arts - Special Education

University of Phoenix
Tempe, AZ
05-2010

Bachelor of Science - Home Economics in Business

Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL
05-1987

Skills

  • Differentiated instruction
  • Classroom management
  • Individual education plans ieps
  • Parent communication
  • Behavior intervention plans
  • Instructional adaptation
  • Small group instruction
  • Relationship building
  • Lesson planning
  • Data management

Certification

  • Standard Professional Cross-Cat Special Education, K-12
  • Standard Professional Elementary, K-8
  • Middle Grades Math Endorsement
  • Structured English Immersion, PreK-12

Timeline

Special Education Teacher

Florence Unified School District
07.2020 - Current

Special Education Teacher/7th Grade Math Teacher

Balsz School District
07.2014 - 06.2020

Special Education Teacher

Springfield School District 186
08.2013 - 05.2014

Master of Arts - Special Education

University of Phoenix

Bachelor of Science - Home Economics in Business

Eastern Illinois University
Karen O'Brien