KATIE FLOOD
Chicago
Summary
Dynamic and mission-driven educational leader with extensive experience designing, implementing, and monitoring high-quality special education systems across a multi-school network. Expert in instructional coaching, special education compliance, data-driven decision making, and building inclusive systems, which ensure all students—especially those with disabilities—thrive. Highly skilled in developing teacher capacity, aligning structures across schools, and integrating instructional, behavioral, and operational systems to improve outcomes. Known for strong relationship-building, strategic planning, and a deep commitment to equity.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Managing Director of Student Services
Distinctive Schools
Chicago
01.2016 - Current
- Lead and manage special education programming across a network of five schools, overseeing instructional quality, compliance, staffing, and strategic initiatives.
- Provide vision, leadership, and oversight for all special education programs, services, staffing allocations, and instructional quality across the region.
- Develop, revise, and implement policies and procedures to ensure alignment with federal, state, and district regulations.
- Lead and operationalized networkwide MTSS, student services structures, and cross-campus systems for caseload management, IEP compliance, and data monitoring.
- Supervise and coach case managers, clinicians, and administrators to strengthen instructional practices and ensure high-quality, legally compliant IEPs.
- Facilitate data-driven conversations with school and network leaders to identify gaps, monitor progress, and align supports.
- Serve as a key member of the network strategic planning committee, contributing to long-term vision, coherence, and organizational health.
- Provide leadership and consultation on matters of discipline, safety, alternative education, and complex student needs.
- Strengthen inclusion and co-teaching models through professional learning, coaching, and observation cycles.
Special Education Instructional Coach
CICS West Belden
Chicago
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Supported instructional quality, compliance, and educator development within an inclusive, personalized learning environment.
- Led special education team in implementing an inclusive, personalized learning model aligned to Distinctive Schools' instructional framework.
- Coached special education teachers and paraprofessionals, providing targeted feedback, professional learning cycles, and classroom modeling.
- Ensured IEPs were standards-based, developmentally appropriate, and aligned to student goals and general education curriculum.
- Designed and facilitated PD focused on improving instructional practices and accelerating student growth.
- Supported co-teaching partnerships through observation cycles, planning structures, and troubleshooting.
- Analyzed and utilized multiple data sources (NWEA, DIBELS, Lexia, progress monitoring) to guide instruction and intervention.
Special Education Teacher
CICS West Belden
Chicago
01.2009 - 01.2012
- Taught students with diverse academic and social-emotional needs using differentiated, data-driven instructional practices.
- Used ongoing assessment and progress monitoring to guide instruction and track growth.
- Collaborated with IEP teams to ensure accessible, rigorous learning experiences for all students.
- Built strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues to cultivate an inclusive learning environment.
- Served on school committees focused on parent engagement, fundraising, and schoolwide events.
- Earned annual performance bonuses based on high instructional evaluation ratings and student growth (ISAT/NWEA).
Education
Master of Education - Special Education (LBS1)
National Louis University
Lisle, ILLisle, IL
Bachelor of Science - Exercise Science
Loras College
Dubuque, IADubuque, IA
Skills
- Special education law and compliance
- Instructional leadership
- Compliance management
- Multi-school network leadership
- Data analysis
- Program development and policy implementation
- MTSS and tiered supports
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Stakeholder engagement
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Google Workspace
- Budget development
- Organizational development
References
Available upon request.
Core Expertise
- Special Education Law & Compliance (IDEA, state/federal)
- Inclusive & Personalized Learning Models
- Instructional Coaching & Educator Development
- Multi-School Network Leadership
- Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement
- Program Development & Policy Implementation
- MTSS / Tiered Supports
- Cross-Functional Leadership & Collaboration
- Family, Community & Stakeholder Engagement
Timeline
Managing Director of Student Services
Distinctive Schools
01.2016 - Current
Special Education Instructional Coach
CICS West Belden
01.2012 - 01.2016
Special Education Teacher
CICS West Belden
01.2009 - 01.2012
Master of Education - Special Education (LBS1)
National Louis University
Bachelor of Science - Exercise Science
Loras College