Patricia Cohen, M.Ed

Autism Coach

+1 (832)660-8646
 Patricia.cohen@aliefisd.net

About Me

Bilingual Special Education professional with 15 years of experience (12 in Alief ISD). Solid experience in the design and implementation of diverse Special Education tools such as application of discrete trial training, use and application of assisted technology, design and implementation of alternative communication systems for special education students, and in the modification of general education curriculum to meet the students’ needs. Able to combine interpersonal skills and teaching acumen to develop productive relationships with parents and community, and to mentor other teachers and paraprofessionals. Proven experience playing leadership roles in diverse work settings and administrative assignments. Flexible and willing to take on new challenges. Former Teacher of the Year in Martin Elementary.

Experience

Autism Coach

May 2019 – Present

Mahanay Elementary, Alief ISD

Collaborated with classroom teachers, autism coaches, BCBA, and paraprofessionals to develop appropriate educational objectives and strategies to work with students with autism based on ABA principles. Developed bilingual audio-visual material to provide parents and community with resources to assist children at home. Created and supported CEAI ‘s schoology account for staff and parents. Collaborated with BCBA, APE, OT and PT to create Sensory/ motor lab. Coordinated procurement of educational and office supply for the CEAI program by engaging 3rd party providers and Alief’s Special Education Budget team.

REACH II-III teacher (k-4)

Aug-15- Apr-19

Martin Elementary, Alief ISD

Named 2017-2018 school Teacher of the Year in recognition for teaching excellence. Supervised and supported eight paraprofessional in diverse grade levels. Collaborated with classroom teachers to define appropriate development activities and strategies to work with students with autism. Mentored new REACH and Life Skills teachers by providing guidance with their administrative responsibilities. Developed strategies, designed resources for class activities, and adapted the general education curriculum to meet students’ needs. Trained general education teacher on the use of modification and accommodation in the general education classroom, as well as, the use of Co-writer and Snap-ready program. Analyzed student data with the special education team to determined student progress and strategies needed to improved student performance.

Bilingual PPCD teacher

Aug-08- Jul-15

Youens Elementary, Alief ISD

Special Education Team Leader for 3 years.  Mentored new PPCD teachers by providing guidance with their classroom structure  and administrative responsibilities.  Collaborated with PK classroom teachers to define appropriate activities and strategies to work with students with special needs. Designed lesson plans, strategies, and resources for class activities, and adapted PK and K curriculum to meet students’ needs. Worked with, and provided guidance to students’ parents and therapists to master IEP goals. Evaluated children development through teacher-designed assessment and IEP progress. 

Projects

Strength 

Leadership Skills

Mentor teachers and paraprofessionals, collaborate with the District’s related service providers to develop educational plans, and lead the team of Special Education teachers

Teaching Skills

Experience indesigning, developing, and implementing teaching strategies, modifications and accommodations of general education curriculum, and special materials for the improvement of students’ skills.

Meaningful connection 

Extensive experience establishing strong relationships and fluid communication channels with parents as a tool to improve the quality of life of students and family.

Bilingual

This skills allow me to connect with parent and students in their native language (Spanish) As well as a better understanding of the ELL and LPAC important responsibility. 

Education

Education

Master of Education in Special Education                                                              Aug-08

University of Houston

 Bachelor of Early Childhood education                                                                Dec-04

Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. Caracas, Venezuela

 Certificate

The Advanced Certified Autism Specialist (ACAS)                                                 Dec-19

International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards

 Texas Examinations of Educators Standards Approved

  • 100 – Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-4
  • 101 – Generalist EC-4
  • 160 – Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-12
  • 161 – Special Education EC-12

Skills

Professional skills

Problem solving
Self-motivation
Conflict Resolution
Creativity
Prioritization
Leadership
Time Management
Adaptability

Vision

Clear and defined areas 
Collaboration
Create opportunities to communicate
Student-centered

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