Open to opportunities

Rickenya Sisk

@rickenyasisk

Message

I am a Special Education leader driving compliance, inclusive programs, and student achievement.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek a director-level role leading special education and inclusive programs where I can drive compliance, MTSS, staff coaching, and measurable student achievement within a collaborative, equity-focused culture.

I am a data-driven Special Education leader with an Ed.D. who designs and implements inclusive programs, MTSS frameworks, and professional development to improve student outcomes. As Regional Director of Special Programs at IDEA Public Schools, I lead an 18-person team, maintain 100% compliance across EL, 504, CSI and special programs, and coached the region to the district’s highest CSI performance.

I build staff capacity through coaching, training, and strategic use of data, author and manage budgets, and champion parent and community engagement. My work has earned consecutive Regional Staff Member of the Year awards and HQ Core Value recognitions for integrity and bringing joy.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Regional Director of Special Programs

Current

IDEA Public Schools

Jan 2019 - Present (6 years 7 months)

Oversaw Special Programs, 504, CSI, and EL professional development for leaders and teachers. Analyzed data to support and coach teachers, using data to track performance, coach, and strategize. Managed a special education department of 18 team members, ensuring 100% compliance of all case management and adherence to state, local, and federal special programs guidelines.

Professional Development Data Analysis Coaching Strategic Planning Team Management Compliance Monitoring

Special Education Manager

IDEA Public Schools

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 7 months)

Managed special programs and services to meet student needs, supporting teachers and staff with goal accomplishment. Managed Transition Services and the special education referral process, formulating contracts for outside district providers. Maintained 100% compliance with all special education indicators and trained teachers and leaders in CSI, SPED, and EL measures.

Special Education Referrals Compliance Management Training Development SPED

Special Education Curriculum Supervisor

Nolan Estes Educational Center

Jan 2016 - Present (9 years 7 months)

Developed and implemented curriculum design, collaborating with stakeholders to set academic goals and benchmarks. Coordinated all aspects of 504, Response to Intervention (RTI), and disability support services. Supervised 13 special education staff members and managed the Special Education program budget.

Curriculum Design RTI IEP Supervision Budget Management Disability Awareness

Special Education Coordinator & Compliance Specialist

The Dallas Independent School District

Jan 2014 - Present (11 years 7 months)

Piloted online self-paced ELA, Math, and Science curriculum, creating aligned assessments and benchmarks. Partnered with district’s accelerated online graduation programs to increase special education learner completion from 0% to 79%. Maintained 100% compliance at all special education audits and annual reviews, raising average compliance in the southern feeder pattern from 44% to 100%.

Curriculum Development Online Learning Program Management Compliance Audits Parent engagement Budget Management HIPAA

Special Education Department Chairperson

John Leslie Patton Jr. Academic Center, Dallas ISD

Jan 2012 - Present (13 years 7 months)

Served as the instructional leader of the special education department, assisting staff with curriculum, instructional strategies, and professional development. Increased special education learner graduation rate from 23% to 97% and improved campus special education compliance rates from 42% to 100%. Planned and implemented college fairs and visits for special education learners, improving college

Curriculum Development Instructional Strategies Data Analysis Professional Development Graduation Rate Improvement Compliance Management

Special Education Inclusion, Content Mastery, and Resource Teacher

Cedar Hill Independent School District & New Orleans Public

Jan 2001 - Present (24 years 7 months)

Oversaw the education and training of students with physical, emotional, mental, and learning disabilities. Designed and delivered lessons geared towards individual needs and capabilities in accordance with Individualized Education Plan (IEP) guidelines. Achieved highest state and district assessment scores for students with disabilities for six consecutive years.

Special Education Instruction IEP Development Lesson planning Assessments

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Northcentral University

Ed.D., Educational Leadership

2019 - 2019

Completed a doctoral program focused on educational leadership. This advanced degree provided a comprehensive understanding of leading and managing educational institutions effectively.

Arkansas State University

M.S., Special Education Instructional Specialist

2012 - 2012

Earned a Master of Science degree specializing in Special Education Instructional Specialist. The program focused on developing expertise in instructional strategies and support for students with special needs.

Jackson State University

B.S., Special Education

2001 - 2001

Obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education. This foundational program prepared for a career in educating students with diverse learning needs.