Patsy Schmermund
Ferguson
Summary
Results-oriented Illinois Certified Special Education Teacher and Board Certified Behavior Analyst skilled in data collection, functional assessments, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Experienced in implementing tailored behavior intervention plans that drive measurable improvements in student engagement and success.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Special School District
11.2020 - Current
- Developed and implemented individualized behavior intervention plans for students with diverse needs.
- Conducted functional behavior assessments to identify triggers and effective strategies for behavioral improvement.
- Collaborated with educators to integrate behavior management techniques into classroom environments.
- Analyzed data trends to evaluate student progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
- Established positive relationships with students, fostering a supportive learning atmosphere conducive to growth.
- Trained direct support staff in applied behavior analysis principles, contributing to improved service delivery and consistency across team members.
- Provided ongoing supervision and feedback to registered behavior technicians, ensuring high-quality services for clients.
- Maintained a high level of professional ethics and adherence to industry standards through ongoing participation in continuing education opportunities.
- Increased client engagement by utilizing evidence-based instructional strategies and naturalistic teaching techniques.
BCBA/Clinical Director
Behavior Therapy Specialists/Acorn Health
07.2018 - 10.2020
- Fostered strong relationships with clients'' families through open communication channels, empathetic listening skills, and a genuine commitment to their child''s success.
- Evaluated program effectiveness using evidence-based outcome measures, resulting in continuous improvement of service delivery models.
- Developed data-driven goals and objectives tailored to each client's unique strengths and needs.
- Led crisis intervention efforts, ensuring safe environments for students during challenging behaviors.
- Facilitated parent workshops to educate families on behavior support strategies at home.
- Trained and mentored staff on best practices for behavior management techniques and data collection methods.
- Led parent training workshops, empowering families with knowledge and skills needed to support their child''s progress at home.
- Served as a mentor for aspiring board-certified behavior analysts by providing guidance on best practices in assessment, intervention planning, and ethical considerations within the profession.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to identify behavioral challenges and design tailored intervention plans.
- Negotiated with insurance providers to cover ABA therapy, increasing access to services for underserved populations.
- Developed treatment plans to help clients build self-confidence and resilience.
Special Education Teacher
Belleville Area Special Service Cooperative (BASSC)
08.2011 - 05.2018
- Developed individualized education plans to meet diverse student needs.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to enhance classroom engagement.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate student support services.
- Utilized assistive technology to facilitate learning for students with disabilities.
- Analyzed student progress data to inform instructional decisions and interventions.
- Promoted a positive learning environment through the use of differentiated instruction and individualized support for diverse learners.
- Improved student behavior management by implementing consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement strategies.
Education
Master of Science - Additional 30 Credit Hours in ABA
SIUC
Carbondale, IL05-2017
Master of Science - Master's in Special Education
SIUE
Edwardsville05-2013
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
SIUE
Edwardsville, Illinois12-2010
Skills
- Staff training
- Social skills development
- Individualized education programs
- Crisis management techniques
- Community-based instruction
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Data collection and analysis
- Behavior intervention planning
Accomplishments
Received multiple grants for implementing Dr. Greg Hanley's Preschool Life Skills, a group social skills curriculum focused on replacement behaviors typically found in behavior intervention plans.
Certification
- BCBA - Board Certified Behavior Analyst
- Licensed to practice as a BCBA in the state of Missouri
Timeline
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Special School District
11.2020 - Current
BCBA/Clinical Director
Behavior Therapy Specialists/Acorn Health
07.2018 - 10.2020
Special Education Teacher
Belleville Area Special Service Cooperative (BASSC)
08.2011 - 05.2018
Master of Science - Additional 30 Credit Hours in ABA
SIUC
Master of Science - Master's in Special Education
SIUE
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
SIUE