Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Sarah Fortna is a versatile Special Education Specialist with a diverse background in supporting students with specific learning difficulties. She is an EAL language coordinator and teacher, executive functioning coach, and dyslexia consultant, dedicated to empowering students and improving educational outcomes.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Special Education Specialist (Self-Employed, 2019 - Present)
- Provides individualized support and tailored interventions for students with diverse learning needs
- Collaborates with parents, teachers, and school administrators to develop and implement comprehensive education plans
- Specializes in supporting students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other specific learning difficulties
EAL Language Coordinator and Teacher (Casa Alitas, 2019 - Present)
- Develops and delivers English language instruction for English language learners
- Implements research-based teaching methods to foster language acquisition and academic success
- Collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to address the unique needs of EAL students
Executive Functioning Coach (CONNECTIONS IN MIND LTD., 2017 - Present)
- Helps students improve their organizational skills, time management, and problem-solving abilities
- Designs and implements customized coaching programs to enhance executive functioning skills
- Provides ongoing support and guidance to empower students to reach their full potential
Career Progression
Tutor and Coach (Various Institutions, 2017 - Present)
- Provides one-on-one and small group tutoring for children with specific learning difficulties
- Collaborates with families and educators to develop personalized learning plans
- Utilizes evidence-based teaching methods to support academic achievement and skill development
Dyslexia Consultant and Tutor (Rootstolearning.org, 2016 - Present)
- Specializes in providing tailored support for students with dyslexia
- Conducts comprehensive assessments and develops targeted intervention strategies
- Advocates for appropriate accommodations and resources to ensure student success
Reading Specialist (The Idea School, 2017 - 2018)
- Designed and implemented a specialized reading program to support struggling readers
- Collaborated with teachers and parents to identify and address individual learning needs
- Provided ongoing professional development to enhance the school's literacy instruction
Head of Learning Support, SENCO; Dyslexia Teacher (Heathside Preparatory School, 2002 - 2018)
- Developed and managed the school's learning support program, overseeing a team of specialists
- Provided direct instruction and support for students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties
- Collaborated with teachers and parents to create and implement personalized learning plans
Academic Background
- Master of Education in Special Education, University of Arizona (2015)
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (2001)
Areas of Expertise
- Dyslexia and specific learning difficulties
- English language instruction for EAL students
- Executive functioning coaching and skill development
- Individualized learning interventions and support
- Collaborative approach to student-centered education
Professional Impact
- Established a highly successful dyslexia tutoring program at Rootstolearning.org, helping numerous students overcome learning challenges
- Designed and implemented a comprehensive reading program at The Idea School, resulting in significant improvements in student literacy levels
- Played a pivotal role in the development and management of the learning support program at Heathside Preparatory School, making a lasting impact on the school community
Conclusion
With her exceptional expertise in special education, EAL instruction, and executive functioning coaching, Sarah Fortna is committed to empowering students and fostering their academic and personal growth. Her diverse experience, collaborative approach, and unwavering dedication to student success make her a valuable asset in the field of education.
