Dr. Ellen Swanson

Consultant

Dr. Ellen Swanson currently serves as a Research Associate at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis/St. Paul, her graduate school alma mater where she received  Educational Specialist (Ed.S) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Educational Psychology. Ellen was recently appointed to this position at the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) that was uniquely designed for her based on her background and experience in the field of education. In her role, she will be supporting school districts, district leadership and school staff with the implementation of evidence-based student interventions, specifically related to social emotional learning (SEL), behavior and mental health needs of children. She will also be focused on building and identifying SEL tools and resources to assist schools in improving data-based decision-making practices in order to improve outcomes for students. 

Prior to this assignment, Dr. Swanson served as the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services with Community Consolidated School District 62 in Des Plaines, Illinois between 2013 to 2023 and as an Assistant Superintendent of Special Services in Lombard School District 44 from 2010 to 2013.

Dr. Swanson has extensive experience working as an educational administrator serving students with a wide range of disabilities in general education and special education settings, juveniles in correctional and residential treatment programs, and youth with mental health and substance abuse issues. In her role as Assistant Superintendent, she was responsible for overseeing special education programs, early childhood education, social emotional learning, student behavior and discipline, crisis management, and homeless programs. She also coordinated all of the other student services and supervised staff within the district including social work, psychology, health, speech and language, occupational therapy, physical therapy, vision, orientation/mobility, assistive technology, behavior specialists and paraeducators.

One of the most important responsibilities Dr. Swanson has had in her career includes spending a significant amount of time supporting families and caregivers who have children with unique educational needs and require individualized education plans (IEP’s). Ellen has been a passionate and tireless advocate for children with disabilities during the past 27 years she has worked in education. And, she is extremely knowledgeable about how to navigate the educational evaluation process, initiate special education services, and access school based supports for students. 

Ellen is able to quickly identify student needs as well as the supports, interventions,  accommodations, and services that may be needed for children to be most successful in school. She is also able to support students and families when complaints are filed at the district level. Dr. Swanson is skilled at conflict resolution and in finding creative solutions when there are situations that require administrative support and attention.

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