Amber Heppenstall
Leechburg
Summary
Passionate educator with extensive experience in special education. Known for strong classroom management and effective communication skills, driving positive learning experiences that meet diverse student needs and promote academic success.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Agora Cyber Charter School
Remote
02.2022 - 12.2025
- Developed individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to student needs and learning objectives.
- Implemented evidence-based instructional strategies to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to address student challenges and support holistic development.
- Monitored student progress through assessments, providing timely feedback to students and families.
- Cultivated a positive classroom environment that promotes respect, inclusion, and academic success for all students.
- Facilitated the integration of technology in lesson delivery, enhancing accessibility for diverse learners.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
Special Education Substitute Teacher
Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School
Remote
01.2021 - 02.2022
- Implemented individualized education plans to support diverse learning needs.
- Adapted lesson materials for various disabilities to enhance student engagement.
- Collaborated with special education team to develop effective instructional strategies.
- Monitored student progress and adjusted teaching methods accordingly.
- Utilized technology tools to deliver interactive lessons in virtual classroom settings.
- Provided assistance during assessments, ensuring accommodations were met for all students.
- Supported classroom management by fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Special Education Teacher
Mars Home for Youth
Mars, PA
01.2020 - 12.2020
- Advocated for student rights and resources within the school community and external agencies.
- 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.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities focused on evidence-based practices in special education teaching methodologies.
Preschool Teacher
Orion Child Development Center
Allison Park, PA
12.2018 - 01.2020
- Developed and implemented age-appropriate lesson plans to foster cognitive and social development.
- Assisted in creating a nurturing environment that promotes emotional growth and independence in children.
- Collaborated with parents to address developmental milestones and behavioral concerns effectively.
- Led classroom activities that encouraged creative expression through arts, music, and storytelling.
- Mentored junior staff on best practices for classroom management and child engagement techniques.
- Evaluated children's progress using observational assessments to tailor individual learning strategies.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education/Special Education
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA12.2018
Skills
- Differentiated instruction
- Classroom management
- Individual education plans ieps
- Small group instruction
- Relationship building
- Co-teaching experience
- Lesson planning
- Collaborative teamwork
- Inclusion strategies
- Group and individual instruction
- Motivating students
- Parent communication
- Parent-teacher collaboration
- De-escalation techniques
- Special education
- Behavior intervention plans
- Literacy intervention
- Visual supports
- Verbal and nonverbal communication
- Behavior modifications
- Assistive technology
- Functional behavior assessment
Certification
- Early Childhood Education PK-4
- Special Education PK-8
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Agora Cyber Charter School
02.2022 - 12.2025
Special Education Substitute Teacher
Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School
01.2021 - 02.2022
Special Education Teacher
Mars Home for Youth
01.2020 - 12.2020
Preschool Teacher
Orion Child Development Center
12.2018 - 01.2020
Bachelor of Science - Early Childhood Education/Special Education
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania