ABOUT HEATHER SCHWARTZ
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I have been an advocate, educator, and consultant supporting individuals (and their families) who have developmental disabilities for the past thirteen years. My experience includes, but is not limited to, supporting people with developmental disabilities in: residential treatment centers, educational settings, work settings, and in family homes. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1998 from the University of Oregon, and in 2005 my Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Portland State University. In addition to my education I have also received specialized training specific to autism spectrum disorders in the areas listed below.
I worked for the Evergreen School District for four years, and helped assist with the implementation of the Evergreen Public Schools C.A.R.E. (Children with Autism and Related Behaviors) program. I provided training and support in CARE classrooms for children with autism spectrum disorders. I was also responsible for the implementation of the K1A (kindergarten first grade autism classroom) pilot program at York Elementary, where I taught children with autism and related behaviors for two years.
Leaving the arena of public education was a tough decision. I have seen a continued and growing need for multiple services within the community of children, adults, and families who live with developmental disabilities over the years and feel that my abilities to serve this community will be best utilized in consulting. Although I have left the classroom I am still collaborating with ESD’s in Washington. I am one of the trainers for the ESD 112, 5 Day Structured Visual Training.
My hobbies include reading, hoop dancing, knitting, traveling, and spending time with my friends and family.
EDUCATION
- Bachelors of Science in Psychology University of Oregon
- Masters in Teaching Early Childhood Special Education, Portland State University
TRAINING
- Functional Behavior Assessment
- Positive Behavior Support Plans
- Individual Education Plans
- Sensory Integration
- Stanley Greenspan’s floortime approach
- Picture Exchange Communication System
- Structured TEACCH
- Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Cognition and Theory of Mind
- Social Stories
- Discrete Trial /Applied Behavior Analysis