Guiding growth through compassion, collaboration, and connection.
Hi, I'm Tara
Early Childhood Special Education Specialist
I have worked with children, families, and educators for the past 13 years, specifically supporting young children with challenging and unsafe behaviors in the home, daycare, and classroom settings. I have a Master’s degree in Special Education and am licensed from birth through age 21, but my passion is with preschool aged children, 3-5.
Prior to entering early childhood special education, I worked for 10 years with adults with disabilities and unsafe behavior. It is my life’s purpose to understand the function of behavior, build relationships, and help people get curious about “behavior” and to build new skills.
My approach is child & family centered, coming alongside you to help figure out the best strategies and supports to help your child (and the adults) learn to regulate and build new skills. All communication and interaction is relational, and my approach is that everything builds on a healthy and trusting relationship, both with children and amongst the adults supporting them.
“Rooted, steady, and always growing.”
Education & Experience
Credentials
- Master’s degree in Special Education
- Certified in Crisis Intervention, Positive Behavior Supports, Collaborative Problem-Solving, Trauma Informed Practices, Adult Learner Strategies, Motivational Interviewing, and Growth Mindset
Experience
- 12+ years experience in Early Childhood Special Education
- Family and caregiver coaching and planning
- Educator coaching and professional development
- Crisis Intervention Training and coaching
- Developing Comprehensive Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Support Plans
A recipient of the Crystal Apple Award in 2026, Tara was described by her colleagues and supervisor:
“Tara doesn’t just go above and beyond—she transforms every space she enters. She digs in with compassion and clarity, supporting the team while deeply understanding each child’s needs. She builds materials, models strategies, coaches educators, and tends to their wellness, all while seeing every child as a puzzle worth solving. Tara takes the time to understand the child no one else has been able to reach, and she does it with grounded skill, steady care, and unwavering commitment.”
When I’m not supporting families and educators, you can most often find me in nature, camping, practicing mindfulness, and reading (some for leisure, and always some on the new research-based practices in my field). These practices help me stay grounded and bring my best self to this important work.