With a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a minor in Interdisciplinary Disability Studies (University of Maine, 2012), I have always been dedicated to integrating inclusive practices in education. I took my first teaching job at the ripe age of 22, where I taught music in a private special purpose school in Maine. I quickly learned that while I certainly enjoy music, my true passion lies in special education. More specifically, in making education accessible to all students, regardless of their behavioral challenges.
My journey took me to teach Functional Life Skills (Grades 9-12) in a public school district, and I earned my Master's degree in Special Education and a graduate certificate in Autism. It was then, in the public schools, that I realized just how much how the lack of resources and training in behavioral science was negatively affecting educator mental health as well as student outcomes. Teachers were begging for help and interfering behaviors were increasing every single year.
When COVID-19 hit and the entire world paused, I knew it was the perfect time to start being the change I wanted to see in education. I set forth towards another Master’s in Educational Psychology with a certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (University of Southern Maine, 2021) and pursued my BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) certification (2021).
Now, as school-based BCBA, I have several years working with school districts to support teachers in managing classroom behaviors effectively. My resources are crafted from years of practical experience and continuous professional development, aimed at providing evidence-based, practical strategies to create positive learning environments. I am committed to helping educators navigate the complexities of classroom behaviors, making my resources invaluable for fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom.