Training and Consultation to Implement Computer Science TACTICS | PaTTANpod [S5E19]

Training and Consultation (TaC) services support LEAs by providing professional development, technical assistance, and consultation regarding Pennsylvania's special education initiatives. PaTTAN's Training and Consultation to Implement Computer Science (TACTICS) team is a voluntary program for TaC who want to grow their capacity as leaders in Pennsylvania's computer science (CSinPA) education initiatives. Joining PaTTANpod to discuss how TaC support CSinPA are Tom Esposito from Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 and Lauren Walker from Chester County Intermediate Unit. Tom Esposito, Special Education Consultant with Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 Tom Esposito is a Special Education Consultant with Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 and a member of the TaC (Training and Consultation) Team, BrainSTEPS Team, and Deaf-Blind Resource Team. He provides technical assistance to the IU and school districts in the areas of Assistive Technology, STEM, Crisis Intervention, Inclusive Practices and has over 30 years of experience in special education as a paraprofessional, teacher, parent, and administrator. Lauren Walker, Training and Consultation Specialist, Chester County Intermediate Unit #24 Lauren Walker is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in special education. She worked as a special education teacher for the Chester County Intermediate Unit for 10 years, where she provided support to students within a variety of classrooms, including Autistic Support, Emotional Support, and Life Skills Support. During her tenure, she developed a reputation for being a compassionate and effective teacher who truly cared about her students’ well-being. After a decade of teaching, Lauren decided to take her skills and expertise to the next level by transitioning to Training and Consultation. She now works with other educators and schools to provide guidance and support in meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities. Lauren’s passion for education and her unwavering commitment to helping others make her an invaluable resource in the field of special education.