MICHELLE SQUIER ALLISON
michelle.squier@bcsemail.org
SUMMARY
Highly qualified special educator well versed in individualized learning strategies, positive
behavior supports, and the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Over fifteen years of
experience supporting people with special needs. Dedicated to improving individuals’ quality of
life outcomes through promotion of self-determination and provision of individualized supports
and instruction.
EDUCATION
Lehigh University
Master of Education in Special Education
• GPA 3.94/4.0
Western Carolina University
Bachelor of Science in Special Education
• Concentration in adapted curriculum
• GPA 3.98 / 4.0
• Summa Cum Laude
Bethlehem, PA
June 2011
Cullowhee, NC
May 2009
CERTIFICATIONS AND LISENSURE
• State of North Carolina License in Special Education, General and Adapted Curricula
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
C.D. Owen High School
Black Mountain, NC
Teacher
August 2011-Present
• Serve as department chair August 2015-present
• Plan and implement instruction in a variety of subject areas including science, math,
english, and job skills
• Co-teach and collaborate with numerous teachers and faculty to improve student learning
• Provide case management services for approximately 25 students
• Implement classroom and whole school behavior management strategies rooted in
positive behavior supports
Cullowhee Valley School
Cullowhee, NC
Teacher Intern
January 2009-May 2009
• Used prescriptive teaching methods and provided strategy instruction in a middle school
resource classroom to help students meet IEP goals
• Co-taught with general education teachers
• Planned and implemented units of study using the North Carolina Standard Course of
Study
• Implemented positive behavior supports in the classroom to increase desired behavior and
student learning
Cullowhee Valley School
Cullowhee, NC
Teacher Intern
August 2008-December 2008
• Taught kindergarten through third grade students in an intensive needs classroom
• Constructed and implemented lessons based on the North Carolina Standard Course of
Study Extensions
• Utilized systematic instructional methods to achieve desired student outcomes
• Used person-centered planning to assist in setting student goals and planning instruction
MICHELLE SQUIER ALLISON
RELATED EXPERIENCE
Community Choices of Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
Research Intern
June 2009- June 2011
• Supported adults with disabilities in developing work, leisure, and social skills in a variety
of community settings
• Planned and implemented instruction to meet person-centered goals
• Established and maintained contacts with local social service and non-profit agencies to
coordinate volunteer opportunities
Easter Seals/United Cerebral Palsy
Asheville, NC
Community Support
August 2007- June 2009
• Provided social skills training to improve interpersonal relationships
• Implemented positive behavior supports to address challenging behaviors
• Provided educational support to individuals at the elementary and college levels
• Invited to work with a college student involved in a pilot inclusion program for students with
significant disabilities attending Western Carolina University
Lifespan
Waynesville, NC
Community Support
November 2006-January 2008
• Provided educational, behavioral, and community based supports for adults and children
with moderate to profound disabilities in a variety of settings
• Created and implemented individualized goal plans for adults at a day habilitation center
• Provided job skill instruction for adults in a sheltered workshop setting
Vocational Solutions
Flat Rock, NC
Community Support
February 2004-July 2005
• Provided on-site job skills training in community and sheltered workshop settings
• Increased client involvement in the community through leisure activities including:
exercise, dining out, continuing education, and sporting events
• Assisted individuals in utilizing community resources such as the grocery store, library,
post office, and barber
Mountain Laurel
Hendersonville, NC
Community Support
February 2003-February 2004
• Provided intensive support to adults in a day habilitation setting while teaching self-help
skills including toileting, feeding, and mobility
• Supported individuals as they participated in recreation and leisure activities and worked
toward achieving individualized goals
• Facilitated access to community resources through community based instruction
Georgia Options in Community Living
Bogart, GA
Community Support /Supervisor
September 1999-June 2001
• Supervised house for adolescent girls with developmental disabilities
• Followed prescribed behavior plans to address challenging behaviors
• Collaborated with families and consumers to develop and implement person-centered
goals
LEADERSHIP
• Positive Behavior Intervention and Support Chair (August 2012 - June 2015)
• Exceptional Children Department Chair (August 2015 - Present)
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