I have four years of experience working with special needs children of varying academic, physical and behavioral needs within the Albany NY public school district. Within this position I worked with children (pre-k - 5) within integrated and self-contained classrooms. I loved this job because of the close bonds I would form with my students- learning how to best communicate with them and support their academic, social and emotional growth. Within this position I gained training in child safety/first aid, conflict/crisis management, positive reinforcement techniques, and gained experience adapting lesson plans and activities to meet the specific needs and academic goals of the child.