Amber Omiecinski | Online Learning for Teachers pursuing Continuing Education and Professional Development | The Connecting Link

 

Amber Omiecinski

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Amber Omiecinski is currently a student resource team (SRT) leader at Valley View School District in Romeoville, IL. She has been working in education for 21 years, beginning as a special education teacher supporting students with varied eligibility criteria in self-contained classroom and inclusive settings, and now working in educational leadership. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education (LBS-1) from Illinois State University and two Master of Arts degrees from Olivet Nazarene University and Concordia University Chicago; one in Reading and the other in Educational Administration. 

 As a SRT Leader, Amber has the opportunity to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families. She leads meetings for all student IEP needs and provides professional development and coaching to special education and general education teachers to support student growth and success. Amber has extensive knowledge and experience in supporting teams in problem solving meetings for academic and social emotional learning needs through the MTSS/RTI systems. She is passionate about learning and growing, and wants to work with other educators to support continued and enhanced motivation and passion for teaching. 

Outside of educational practices, Amber enjoys an active family life with her husband, four children and household pets.

From looking beyond the ‘autism spectrum disorder’ label to preparing students for adulthood, this course is designed to empower educators with effective, research-based strategies to incorporate into their classrooms and professional practices. Course participants will examine nine strength-based mindsets necessary for navigating autism - as presented by Dr. Temple Grandin and psychologist Dr. Debra Moore. This course prepares educators by emphasizing strengths and assets of individuals with autism to maximize their potential inside and outside of school.
Course #: IMW26033
Dates: 01/05/26 - 02/01/26
Categories:

Equity & Diversity 21st-Century Teaching Instructional Strategies

Format:

Interactive

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In today's diverse educational landscape, it is crucial for teachers to be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize and address the unique needs of students. This course will provide an overview of common neurodivergent conditions, including specific learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mental health conditions, as well as anxiety disorders. Throughout this course, evidence-based strategies and classroom interventions to support students with neurodivergent conditions will be emphasized. Tapping into a variety of valuable resources such as Psychology Today, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Child Mind Institute, and Neurodivergent Insights - educators will be empowered with practical tools and techniques that can be immediately applied to their professional practices including effective goal setting, mindset, and the use of assistive technology to enhance learning. Course participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to create a supportive and effective learning environment conducive for students with neurodivergent conditions. Finally, educators will explore strategies to prevent burnout in this demanding profession, as well as enhance one’s mental health and well-being inside and outside of school. Throughout the course, participants will engage in interactive dialogue through a variety of mediums to receive valuable feedback to reflect on from their instructor. All formative and summative projects are reviewed and graded, and feedback from the instructor will be provided allowing the participant to enhance their portfolio of educational tools/resources to impact their classroom or school community.
Course #: IMW26034
Dates: 03/02/26 - 03/29/26
Categories:

Equity & Diversity Positive Classroom Management Diverse Learners

Format:

Interactive

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This course is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively support vulnerable students and struggling learners, ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all. Participants will delve into the complexities faced by students who experience challenges such as socio-economic disadvantages, emotional difficulties, and academic struggles. The course will provide an in-depth exploration of the factors contributing to student vulnerability, drawing on the latest research in education and psychology. The course will examine the research of Dr. Michael Ungar, whose work on resilience among marginalized children and families provides critical insights into supporting vulnerable students. Educators will learn strategies to create supportive and inclusive classroom environments, implement differentiated instruction, and foster social-emotional learning (SEL). The course will highlight the importance of building strong relationships with students, understanding their unique needs, and developing personalized learning plans. Participants will delve into the significance of family and community partnerships. The course will conclude with the creation of a comprehensive support plan or presentation showcasing the participant’s ability to apply these strategies in educational settings. Throughout the course, participants will engage in interactive dialogue through a variety of mediums to receive valuable feedback to reflect on from their instructor. All formative and summative projects are reviewed and graded, and feedback from the instructor will be provided allowing the participant to enhance their portfolio of educational tools/resources to impact their classroom or school community.
Course #: IMW26035
Dates: 05/04/26 - 05/31/26
Categories:

Equity & Diversity Social & Emotional Learning

Format:

Interactive

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