Nicole VanGorder

• Provided individualized instruction and behavioral support to students with autism and intellectual disabilities in a self-contained classroom setting.
• Developed, implemented, and monitored Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including goal setting, progress tracking, and data collection to guide instruction.
• Designed and delivered differentiated lesson plans targeting academic, social, vocational, and functional life skills.
• Facilitated community-based instruction by supervising students at various job sites and in real-world settings to build independence, workplace readiness, and daily living skills.
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams—including therapists, paraprofessionals, and families—to support student progress and ensure compliance with special education regulations.
• Utilized evidence-based strategies to promote positive behavior, communication, and independence.
• Managed a caseload of students with diverse learning and behavioral needs, ensuring all IEPs were current, compliant, and aligned with individual goals

Completed student teaching in both elementary and high school self-contained autism classrooms, supporting students with a range of academic and functional needs. In the elementary setting, delivered instruction aligned with general education curriculum and the adapted curriculum, using accommodations and modifications to support access and engagement. In the high school setting, implemented adapted curriculum focused on functional academics, life skills, and transition readiness. Collaborated with cooperating teachers and support staff to plan and deliver lessons, implement behavior supports, and monitor student progress.

• Designed and delivered small-group and individualized instruction across academic and functional skill areas
• Implemented accommodations, modifications, and differentiated strategies to meet diverse learning needs
• Applied behavior management strategies and reinforcement systems to support positive student outcomes
• Collaborated with teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers
• Developed positive relationships with students, fostering a supportive learning environment that encouraged academic success.
• Worked with classroom teacher to learn about current standards and best practices.
• Facilitated small group activities and one-on-one instruction to meet individual student needs.
• Collaborated with mentor teachers to refine teaching methods and classroom management techniques.

• Worked 1:1 with individuals with developmental disabilities on a variety of skills in their home. Worked on goals with the individuals from their behavior treatment plan. These goals included working on fine/gross motor skills, social skills, life skills, organizational skills, transitioning skills, communication skills, and behavior management.
• Implemented behavior intervention plans to enhance client engagement and learning outcomes.
• Monitored and documented client behaviors and progress towards their goals.
• Developed and implemented reinforcement systems to encourage positive behaviors.
• Maintained detailed records of client behaviors and interventions, ensuring accurate tracking of progress over time.
• Assessed client progress regularly, and communicated with BCBA to adjust intervention strategies as needed to ensure continued growth and development.
• Developed positive relationships with clients and their families.

• Cared for a four year old during the day and ensured safety.
• Supervised children's activities, ensuring safety and engagement.
• Created/supervised age-appropriate engaging and innovative activities (ex. slime, just dance, outdoor games etc.)
• Prepared healthy meals, adhering to dietary restrictions and preferences.
• Communicated effectively with parents regarding daily activities and child behavior.
• Assisted with reading skills
• Organized and cleaned home after activities by picking up toys and straightening up play room.

• Worked one on one with campers with varying disabilities who needed extra support in order to succeed in the summer camp environment.
• Found and implemented energetic and creative ways to enable the child to have full participation in program activities
• Actively participated in camp activities with the child
• Accommodated the campers physical/emotional needs
• Facilitated socialization among campers