Wendy Chalmers

About Wendy Chalmers

With nearly 25 years of experience as a Special Education Instructor in Career & Technical Education (CTE), I am committed to empowering students through meaningful, hands-on learning and purposeful secondary transition planning. My work focuses on preparing young adults for success in the workforce, post-secondary education, and independent living. I specialize in supporting students with diverse learning needs as they navigate CTE programs, and I collaborate closely with school districts, CTE staff, families, educators, adult service providers, and community stakeholders to ensure every student is prepared for a positive experience in CTE and is provided information and connections to help prepare them for a successful future including employment, further training and independent living. Beyond the classroom, I actively serve on local and state-level committees and boards across Pennsylvania, contributing to policy, advocacy, and innovation in special education and secondary transition. I’m also passionate about writing, research, and lifelong learning—continually exploring new ways to support students and elevate the field of education. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP *PA Association of Career & Technical Education Special Populations (PACTESP), Board Member *Past President *By-Laws Review Committee *Central Region Rep.*Newsletter *Association of Career & Technical Education (ACTE)*New & Related Services Member *Pennsylvania Region 1 Member *Presenter at various local, state, and national conferences, on various topics including, Supporting students in Career & Tech Ed, self advocacy for students with special needs, transition services to assist students with special needs in planning for their futures, collaborating with agencies and schools, English Language Learners and Career & Technical Education, communication, the role of Para Educators in CTE, Assistive Technology, and more. AREAS OF EXPERTISE Secondary Transition, Career & Technical Education, Special Populations, Conference Planning, Professional Presentations, Secondary Special Education, Study Skills, Transition Clinics, Employability Skills, Resume Development, Universal Design for Learning. EDUCATION M.A. in Secondary Transition, George Washington University Graduate Certificate in Secondary Transition, George Washington University M.S. in Exceptionalities,N-12 Special Education, Bloomsburg University B.A. in Studio Art/Art Therapy, Arcadia University A.A.S. in Graphic Design, Cazenovia College

Experience

1. Member, Union - Snyder Transition Council

   SUN Area Technical Institute

   Sep 2003 — Present · PA, US

   The Union and Snyder Counties Transition Council is made up of school, community, and organizational individuals who are stake holders in the planning and support for students with special needs as they transition from school to post-school outcomes. Among the many tasks the council is responsible for is planning an bi-annual transition conference for students who attend the schools in the counties of Union and Snyder (and most recently, Northumberland). Additionally, we work collaboratively to provide transition clinics and other events to help students and families to plan and connect with others who may assist with secondary transition activities and events. These Clinics are Person Centered and have been replicated throughout the state in various areas.

Education

• Lewisburg Area High School

  High School Diploma

  1983 — 1987

• The George Washington University

  Master of Arts (M.A.)

  2012 — 2013

• The George Washington University

  Grad. Certification

  2005 — 2007

• Cazenovia College

  AAS

  1987 — 1989

• Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

  M.S.

  2000 — 2002

• Arcadia University

  B.A.

  1989 — 1991

Skills

• Manipulatives
• Microsoft Excel
• Digital Photography
• Graphic Design
• Photoshop
• Collaborative Learning
• Classroom Instruction
• Powerpoint
• Editing
• Social Media
• Classroom Management
• Career & Technical Education
• Assistive Technology
• Team Building
• Transition Related Activities
• Special Education Law
• Community Outreach
• Positive Behavior Support
• Visual Arts
• Learning Disabilities
• Non-Profits
• Special Education
• Classroom
• Differentiated Instruction
• Student-Centered Learning
• Public Speaking
• Public Relations
• Secondary Education
• Universal Design for Learning
• Fundraising
• Press Releases
• Supervisory Skills
• Educational Leadership
• Secondary Education Transition
• Instructional Technology
• Teaching
• English
• Conferences
• Writing
• Multiple Intelligences