Educator Spotlight: Project Success Subject Matter Expert
PCG’s Project Success Resource Center is comprised of a team of passionate special education subject matter experts who design and deliver targeted professional development and coaching to teachers, administrators, and paraprofessionals across the country. Project Success is proud to spotlight the work of one of our subject matter experts, Heidi Brett Baker. Learn more about her background and professional development experience.
Please tell me a little bit about your background before coming to PCG.
I have been an educator for 35 years. Before joining the PCG team, I had an exciting career journey. I have had the opportunity to teach K-12 in the classroom, be a school administrator as well as a district special education director. I have also taught at the university level for 10 years.
PCG’s Project Success Resource Center offers a broad range of professional development, coaching, and learning programs. Are you involved in all of them, or do you focus on any in particular?
I have had the pleasure to work collaboratively for the last four years with the team on developing and leading professional development and coaching opportunities.
What piece of advice would you give to a new teacher or paraprofessional today?
My biggest advice would be that ALL students should have the opportunity to learn and grow and it is everyone’s responsibility to strive for positive outcomes for ALL.
Last but not least, what can you tell us about your work with Pre-ETS?
I am also working on a Project called Pre ETS-Pre Employment, Transition, Services. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and requires vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies to set aside at least 15% of their federal funds to provide pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) to students with disabilities who are eligible or potentially eligible for VR services. The five components include: Job exploration counseling; Work-based learning experiences; Counseling on post-secondary opportunities; Workplace readiness training; and Instruction in self-advocacy.
It is available to any student who:
is between the ages of 14 and 22 years old and
is eligible for, and receiving, special education or related services under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IEP, 504 plan)
We like to wrap up our conversations with PCG subject matter experts on a less serious note so, if it’s all right with you, we have one final request: Could you share something about yourself that isn’t related to work or teaching?
The most important thing I’d like to share is my beautiful 9 grandchildren. I have 7 grandsons and 2 granddaughters. They range in age from 1 to 15 years old. I love to spend time and travel with them. We love Disney!
For more information on joining any of our professional development opportunities, contact Ashley aquick@pcgus.com or visit the Project Success website at www.pcgprojectsuccess.com.