Experience
Professional Experience
I have worked in the field of special education for more than thirty years. After college, I began my career at a private school serving children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
In 1998, I transitioned to public education and spent the next twenty years as a special education teacher in the Wayland Public Schools.
In 2019, I accepted a position as a Special Education Team Chair in the Sudbury Public Schools, where I worked through the end of the 2022–2023 school year.
In addition to my professional work, I supervise graduate students pursuing certification in early childhood, elementary, and special education.
Education
I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Columbia University in 1994. Four years later, I earned my Master’s degree in Special Education from Fitchburg State University.
Since then, I have completed over 75 graduate credits on various topics related to the field of education including:
Special education advocacy and law
Specific learning disabilities
ADHD
Autism spectrum disorder
Executive functioning
Social/emotional skills
Childhood trauma
Certifications
I hold Massachusetts DESE certifications in Moderate Disabilities PreK–8, Moderate Disabilities 5–12, Elementary Education, and Early Childhood Education.
I am a Wilson Reading Certification Teacher and hold my SEI Endorsement.
I also completed advocacy training through the Federation for Children with Special Needs, as well as Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training.
“Karen’s approach to our situation was supportive and understanding. Karen shared her extensive knowledge of what should be possible and how best to make the requests.”
Parent, Wayland, MA
I am proud to be affiliated with organizations that share a commitment to supporting students, families, and meaningful educational outcomes.
