Edie Cusack Email & Phone Number

Charleston, South Carolina, United States

The Director of Student Success Ministries is a member of the Catholic Schools Office, dedicated to supporting schools in the Diocese of Charleston. This role involves advising principals, teachers, and the CSO on best practices to create a learning environment that nurtures each child's unique needs. The Director oversees special programs, ensuring compliance with laws, research, and best practices, while providing leadership and collaboration with stakeholders to develop policies that support students with disabilities and other learning challenges.Key Responsibilities:Serve on the Catholic Schools Office Team and foster positive relationships with teachers, families, and students.Oversee the Diocese of Charleston Special Education programs and handbook, updating resources and forms.Act as the primary resource for schools regarding IDEA and special education servicesConduct consultations with teachers and school leaders on accommodations, modifications, and services.Guide Learning Support Teams through the MTSS process and support schools in addressing SEL issues.Coach administrators on best practices for Multi-Language LearnersCollaborate with the Assistant Superintendent and Academic Excellence Committee to plan professional development for educatorsEnsure inclusive curriculum and instruction through input on the Academic Excellence CommitteeDevelop a clear understanding of ESSA programs (Title I, II, III, IV, and IDEA) to provide equitable services to private school studentsAssist schools in maximizing Title and IDEA funding and training special education staffImplement policies and frameworks that support the academic and emotional development of students with disabilitiesMonitor and evaluate the effectiveness of school programs, making adjustments as necessaryFacilitate transitions for students with disabilities across schoolsCommunicate regularly with stakeholders on policies and initiatives, promoting transparency and accountability

Charleston, South Carolina Area

I collaborate with individuals, school districts, organizations, and universities globally to expand inclusive practices and equitable access for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Additionally, I partner with universities to design and implement inclusive programs tailored to students with IDD, fostering environments that support their growth and integration.Past and Present Clients: University of Cincinnati | University of Northern Colorado | Northeastern State University of Oklahoma | LeadLearnLive | Success for Life | St. James-Santee Elementary Middle School | Integral Care's HUB Learning Commmunity | Salzburg University| Coastal Carolina University

Charleston, South Carolina Area

As the Founding Executive Director of the REACH Program at the College of Charleston, I have had the privilege of creating, developing, and implementing a groundbreaking four-year, fully inclusive postsecondary opportunity for young adults with intellectual disabilities—students who might otherwise lack access to a traditional college experience. My vision was to enhance the conventional college journey by integrating tailored modifications, allowing students with diverse learning needs to thrive in a campus environment. This initiative has proven to be immensely successful and fulfilling; students in the REACH Program actively participate in all facets of college life, gaining essential skills for adulthood while receiving the necessary challenges and support along the way. The outcomes for graduates are truly life-changing, as they become self-determined individuals who are actively engaged in shaping and living their own lives.My role encompasses a wide range of executive responsibilities, including the creation, articulation, and implementation of a visionary program, as well as the establishment and management of a leadership team committed to inclusive education. I excel in making executive-level decisions that drive the success of the program, ensuring alignment with our mission and objectives. A key aspect of my work involves actively engaging with the community to build partnerships that facilitate internship opportunities for students. By collaborating with families, educational institutions, and local organizations, I foster a network that supports our students' professional development. With terminal decision-making authority, I manage and develop annual and multi-year budgets that promote sustainable growth. Additionally, I oversee strategic planning and development within the REACH Program, drawing on my experience and a strong foundation in organizational growth.

College Of Charleston

Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina

Special Education TeacherAs a dedicated Special Education Teacher with over a decade of experience, I have successfully supported students with diverse learning needs in various educational settings. My role involves developing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique strengths and challenges, ensuring access to a high-quality education that promotes academic and personal growth.Key Responsibilities:Leadership in Instruction: Design and deliver tailored lesson plans and instructional strategies that foster an engaging learning environment for students with disabilities.IEP Development: Collaborate with parents, educational professionals, and service providers to create and review comprehensive IEPs that outline specific goals and accommodations.Behavior Management: Implement positive behavior interventions to enhance student engagement and promote social-emotional development.Collaboration and Mentorship: Lead collaborative efforts with general education teachers and support staff, facilitating the integration of students with disabilities and mentoring new educators in best practices.Professional Development: Organize and facilitate workshops on effective teaching strategies for diverse learners, contributing to the professional growth of colleagues.Assessment and Progress Monitoring: Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress, adjusting instructional strategies as needed, and communicating findings to parents and educational teams.Community Engagement: Build relationships with families and community organizations to support student development and raise awareness of special education needs.

Charleston, South Carolina Area

Charleston, South Carolina Area

Individualized Instruction: Design and deliver tailored lesson plans and instructional strategies that meet the individual needs of students with disabilities, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.IEP Development: Collaborate with parents, educational professionals, and related service providers to create and review comprehensive IEPs that outline specific goals, accommodations, and modifications.Behavior Management: Implement positive behavior interventions and support strategies to enhance student engagement and promote social-emotional development.Collaboration and Teamwork: Work closely with general education teachers, support staff, and administration to ensure an inclusive learning environment and facilitate the integration of students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms.Assessment and Progress Monitoring: Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress, adjust instructional strategies as needed, and communicate findings to parents and educational teams.Professional Development: Engage in continuous professional growth through workshops, conferences, and collaboration with colleagues to stay updated on best practices in special education.Community Engagement: Foster relationships with families and community organizations to support student development and promote awareness of special education needs.Achievements:Successfully increased student engagement and academic performance through the implementation of innovative teaching methods and inclusive practices.Played a pivotal role in developing school-wide initiatives aimed at enhancing support for students with disabilities.

Charleston, South Carolina Area

Charleston, South Carolina Area

Montclair New Jersey