Experience

  1. Paraeducator – SPED (Significant Support Needs)

    Chipeta Elementary School, District 11
    View key responsibilities...
    • Provided direct support to students with autism and other special needs, assisting with academic tasks, communication, social skills, and daily routines in both structured and inclusive settings.
    • Supported the implementation of IEP goals by delivering accommodations, collecting progress monitoring data, and providing instructional and behavioral support under teacher and therapist guidance.
    • Assisted non-verbal and high-support students using AAC, PECS, visual supports, and proactive behavior strategies, including sensory regulation and safety practices.
    • Contributed to the adaptation of instructional materials and classroom routines by sharing observations, data trends, and student response patterns with the SPED team.
    • Participated in the implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIPs) by tracking antecedents, modeling replacement behaviors, and reinforcing individualized strategies.
    • Provided input for ABLLS activities and skill acquisition plans by documenting student performance and collaborating with teachers and behavior specialists.
    • Helped maintain a highly structured, supportive learning environment that increased engagement, reduced problem behaviors, and promoted independence.
    • Supported students through transitions using visual schedules, first–then boards, and consistent routines to reduce anxiety and increase predictability.
    • Collaborated closely with teachers, therapists, ABAs, and families to ensure consistency across settings and to align supports with student needs.
    • Maintained a safe, inclusive, and emotionally supportive classroom environment, promoting student well-being and positive relationships.
  2. Teacher Assistant

    Chipeta Elementary School, District 11
    View key responsibilities...
    • Assisted the lead teacher in preparing and organizing classroom activities and materials to support lesson plans and instructional goals.
    • Delivered handwriting lessons and creative craft activities.
    • Helped create a positive and inclusive classroom environment, fostering social, emotional, and academic growth through interactive, age-appropriate activities.
    • Provided individualized support to students needing additional help, ensuring attention to unique learning needs and challenges.
    • Assisted in monitoring and managing student behavior, reinforcing classroom rules, and promoting positive behavior in a supportive manner.
  3. ESL Teacher Assistant, Volunteer – ESL Summer Program, part-time

    Adult and Family Education, District 11
    View key responsibilities...
    • Assisted the lead teacher in delivering English as a Second Language lessons to adult learners, focusing on speaking and listening skills.
    • Supported students individually and in small groups to enhance their workplace communication skills and overall English proficiency.
    • Helped facilitate conversational practice sessions, encouraging students to build confidence in spoken English.
    • Provided guidance to students preparing for community involvement.
    • Created a welcoming and inclusive environment, ensuring that all students felt supported.

Education

  1. Special Education Generalist

    University of Colorado Colorado Springs
    Visit University Website
  2. BA/MA Ukrainian and Russian Language and Literature

    V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
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    GPA: 3.35/4.0

    Specialist Diploma confirming the qualification of Philologist, Teacher of Russian Language and Literature.

    This credential prepares the holder to teach Russian language and literature in secondary school in the U.S.

    Courses included:

    • Psychology
    • Logic
    • Pedagogy & Methodology of Teaching
    • General Linguistics
    • Foundations of Stylistics & Culture of Speech
    • Literary Theory
    Visit University Website
Skills & Hobbies
Skills
Special Education Expertise

Deep understanding of child psychology, autism spectrum disorder, and attachment theory

Instructional Technology

Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, iOS, cloud-based services, and assistive technology tools

Creative Problem-Solving

Ability to think outside the box and offer fresh perspectives to foster inclusion and student success

Hobbies
Quilting
Calligraphy
Beading
Languages
100%
Ukrainian
100%
Russian
80%
English