Adelina has been in the world of Special Education for 15 years and continues to seek knowledge to better support students, families, and educators. She has taught elementary, middle school, and transition program which gave her a strong understanding of what is needed in the classroom setting to increase student success. Her true passion is supporting teachers and parents to build the confidence they need to implement a successful IEP, promote growth, and independence in every child. As a Teacher Coach and Preschool Coordinator, Adelina has been able to build a bridge between district and family to ensure common understanding, collaborative approaches, and continued growth. She has seen the struggle parents go through when navigating the Special Education System alone and acknowledges the difficulties and obstacles parents are presented with. She is committed to supporting and educating as many families as possible to ensure a strong understanding to advocate for their child with confidence.

Experience:

• Mild/Moderate Education Specialist

• Moderate/Severe Education Specialist

• Inclusion Specialist

• Preschool Special Education Coordinator

Education:

• Bachelor’s of Science in Education- Mild/Moderate Disabilities

• Master’s of Arts in Special Education, emphasis on Moderate/Severe Disabilities

• Education Specialist Credential, Mild to Moderate & Moderate to Severe

• Deaf/Blind Specialization

Acantha Ellard is a passionate educator who believes all children are capable of learning and developing in so many facets of life. Acantha is also a proud mother of a child born with significant delays. Through her journey as a single mother of a precious child, and the past 15 years working in the field of special education, her faith in a child's ability to overcome obstacles, to be resilient, and to exceed expectations has only been strengthened. Acantha comes to the 'table' with an understanding and compassion for both the school team and for parents, but most importantly for the child. It is her goal to help teams have a common language and an understanding to support the child. It is Acantha's belief that through collaboration and teamwork, children truly get the support they need. Acantha seeks to join school teams and parents in partnership to see each child achieve their personal best.

Experience:

• Director of Special Education

• Program Coordinator

• Resource Specialist

Education:

• Master’s of Arts in Special Education

• Education Specialist Credential, Mild to Moderate & Moderate to Severe

• Administrative Services Credential

• MOVE Certified