Lisa N. Mackel
Munster,Indiana
Summary
Compassionate and highly experienced Special Education Teacher with over 32 years of dedicated service within Chicago Public Schools. Proven expertise in developing individualized strategies for students with Autism, Down Syndrome, and Intellectual Disabilities. Adept at behavior intervention, peer mentorship, and fostering inclusive learning environments that prioritize student dignity and academic growth.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
McKay Elementary (CPS District 299)
Chicago
08.2023 - Current
- Deliver tailored instruction to students with diverse learning needs, ensuring alignment with state standards and IEP goals.
- Utilize adaptive technology and differentiated instructional materials to enhance student engagement.
- Key Achievement: Serving as a Student Teacher Mentor (2025–Present), guiding the next generation of educators through clinical practice and classroom management techniques.
Special Education Teacher
Ashburn Elementary (CPS District 299)
08.2009 - 06.2023
- Managed diverse caseloads, specializing in students with complex intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Collaborated with therapists and families to ensure holistic support for every student.
- Key Achievement: Appointed as a Teacher Mentor (2020), providing peer-to-peer coaching and professional development support to staff.
City-Wide Behavior Specialist
Chicago Public Schools (District 299)
Chicago
02.2006 - 08.2009
- Provided district-wide expertise in behavioral modification and crisis intervention.
- Consulted with school leadership to implement effective classroom management strategies for high-needs environments.
Special Education Teacher
Yale Elementary (CPS District 299)
08.2006 - 06.2009
- Facilitated self-contained and inclusive classroom settings.
- Focused on life skills, social-emotional learning, and academic fundamentals.
Special Education Teacher
Yale Elementary (CPS District 299)
Chicago
02.1994 - 02.2006
- Commenced teaching career, building a foundation in special education pedagogy.
- Developed long-term relationships with the community to support student transitions and family advocacy.
Education
Master of Arts - Curriculum and Leadership
American College of Education
Chicago, IL01-2011
Masters in Education - Urban Education
Cambridge College
Boston, MA01-1998
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL01-1993
Skills
- IEP Software: SSM (Special Education Student Management) / PowerSchool
- Communication: Google Workspace for Education, Microsoft Office Suite
- Unique Curriculum
- Adaptive Tools: Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Assistive Technology devices
Accomplishments
Professional Development Presenter
Special Education Department Chairperson
Teacher Mentor
Student Teacher Advisor
Certification
- Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) 1994
- Special Education (LBS1) 2002
- Type 75, Curriculum and Instruction 2011
- Specialized Training: Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), Adaptive Curriculum Design. 2012
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
McKay Elementary (CPS District 299)
08.2023 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Ashburn Elementary (CPS District 299)
08.2009 - 06.2023
Special Education Teacher
Yale Elementary (CPS District 299)
08.2006 - 06.2009
City-Wide Behavior Specialist
Chicago Public Schools (District 299)
02.2006 - 08.2009
Special Education Teacher
Yale Elementary (CPS District 299)
02.1994 - 02.2006
Master of Arts - Curriculum and Leadership
American College of Education
Masters in Education - Urban Education
Cambridge College
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Chicago State University
Core Competencies
- Specialized Instruction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, & Intellectual Disabilities.
- Leadership: Teacher Mentorship & Student Teacher Supervision.
- Behavioral Support: Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) & Intervention Plans.
- Compliance: IEP Development, Data Collection, & Goal Tracking.
- Collaboration: Parent-Teacher Consultation & Multi-disciplinary Team Leadership.