Celeste Ortiz
@celesteortiz
Dedicated special education professional with 14 years of experience.
What I'm looking for
I am Celeste Ortiz, a passionate educator with 14 years of experience in the field of special education. My journey has been deeply influenced by my personal experiences as a parent of children with special needs, which has equipped me with unique insights into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. I have held various roles, including Life Skills Teacher/Job Coordinator, ARD Facilitator, and Educational Diagnostician Intern, where I have successfully advocated for students and connected them with essential resources.
Throughout my career, I have focused on empowering students to achieve independence and success. At Encore Academy, I established partnerships with local businesses to secure employment opportunities for my students, ensuring that their needs were met in the workplace. My commitment to education is driven by a desire to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and families, fostering growth and development through tailored support and advocacy.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Educational Diagnostician Intern/ARD Facilitator
Odessa College
Jan 2022 - Present (3 years 5 months)
Engaged in conducting assessments, interpreting data, and collaborating with diverse professionals to craft individualized education plans and Full Individual Evaluations. Facilitated ARD committee meetings, participated in the IEP process, led Manifestation Determination Reviews, and composed comprehensive reports.
Board Member
Friendship House
Jan 2021 - Dec 2023 (2 years 11 months)
Attended all board and committee meetings, remaining informed about the organization's mission, services, policies, and programs. Reviewed agendas and supporting materials, advocated on behalf of young adults, and assisted them in accessing community resources and support.
1st Grade Inclusion Teacher and Virtual Teacher
Blanton Elementary
Jan 2019 - Dec 2021 (2 years 11 months)
Participated in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, collected data, and provided necessary accommodations while instructing all subjects. Taught both virtually and in person, created detailed lesson plans, implemented instructional strategies, and designed assessments and assignments.
Education Paraprofessional/Special Education Long Term Sub
Richard Milburn Academy Charter School
Jan 2010 - Dec 2016 (6 years 11 months)
Attended IEP and ARD meetings, provided accommodations or modifications for each student depending on their IEP, and served as a case manager. Assisted with lesson plan building and maintained a high school level of instruction.
2+1 Intern Lifeskills and Resource K-5 Teacher
Blanton Elementary
Co-taught with mentor teachers in three placements throughout the year, including a 3rd-grade general education classroom, a K-5 Resource Classroom, and a K-5 Special Education self-contained classroom. Created lesson plans, implemented lessons, designed assessments, and graded assignments.
18+ Life Skills Teacher/Job Coordinator/Coach
Encore Academy (MISD 18+ program)
Jan 2020 - Dec 2022 (2 years 11 months)
Served as a Life Skills Teacher and Job Coordinator for students aged 18-22 with special needs, establishing partnerships with local businesses to secure paid employment opportunities. Supervised a team of job coaches and paraprofessionals, managed caseloads, and assisted students with resume building, interviews, and obtaining identification.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Odessa College
Associate's Degree, Early Childhood - Grade 6
Completed an Associate's degree focused on Early Childhood Education, preparing for teaching roles from early childhood through grade 6. Gained foundational knowledge in child development and educational practices.
Texas Tech University
Bachelor of Science in Education, Multidisciplinary Studies
Earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a focus on Multidisciplinary Studies. Developed a comprehensive understanding of various educational subjects and teaching methodologies.
Sul Ross University
Master's Degree, Special Educational Diagnostician
Pursued a Master's Degree in Special Education, specializing as an Educational Diagnostician. Focused on conducting assessments, interpreting data, and developing individualized education plans for students with special needs.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
Interested in hiring Celeste?
You can contact Celeste and 90k+ other talented remote workers on Himalayas.
Message CelesteFind your dream job
Sign up now and join over 85,000 remote workers who receive personalized job alerts, curated job matches, and more for free!
