A Bit About Me
With over 30 years of experience in the field of education, I am a passionate advocate and seasoned expert dedicated to empowering families that are navigating through developing a greater understanding of IEPs, 504 plans, and vocational services. As the founder of SupportED Steps, my goal is to help support families with clarity and compassion, drawing from my 22 years of hands-on experience in school settings as a Special Education Teacher, IEP and 504 Case Manager, and Vocational Coordinator.
I bring a strong academic and professional foundation to my work, holding a Master of Arts in Teaching and Leadership from St. Xavier University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Illinois State University. I am licensed in Illinois as a Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS1) for students from Pre-K through age 22 and as a Career and Technical (Vocational) Coordinator. In addition, I also hold an endorsement to teach English in Grades 6–12, which reflects my commitment to supporting a wider range of students.
Throughout my career, I have worked across K-8, high school, and transition settings, supporting students and families with compassion, clarity, and purpose. I break down complex educational documents and procedures, ensuring families feel informed, confident, and prepared for meetings and decisions. My experience managing and implementing IEPs and 504 Plans has ensured that students with disabilities receive the individualized support they need to thrive academically and socially. Families, whom I have worked with, have been able to gain a greater understanding of what to expect in a meeting and what resources might be available to them.
My teaching career has been both diverse and comprehensive. In addition to case managing and instructing students across all curricular areas in K–12 and post-high school settings, I have also served as a Vocational Coordinator, supporting students at both the high school and transition levels. My work in this role has extended beyond the classroom to help students explore and engage with real-world opportunities. I’ve helped families look toward their child’s future with greater confidence by guiding them through transition planning and connecting them to resources and supports.
This work has included building partnerships with local businesses and corporations, designing and implementing vocational programs, developing handbooks and evaluation tools, and coordinating logistics to provide meaningful, supported work experiences. As a tireless problem solver, I strive to bridge the gap between education and life after school—helping students build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in all aspects of life.