Laura MacLellan 353 Pooley Pl. Victoria, BC V9A 6Y5 (250) 516-9340 lmaclellan@sd61.bc.

ca August 15, 2013 Human Resources Greater Victoria School District No. 61 556 Boleskine Rd. PO Box 700 Victoria, BC V8W 2R1 To Whom It May Concern: Please accept this application package for the Provincial Integration Support Program position. I have recently completed my Masters degree in Special Education with a special focus on Autism and other Developmental Disabilities. This program along with my experience as a classroom teacher and Learning Assistance teacher has made me very passionate about ensuring that all students reach their full potential and providing them with the most enriching environments possible. I will be an effective member of the Provincial Integration Support Program as I have experience working with individuals who have severe disabilities and these experiences have instilled in me a fundamental belief that these individuals and their families deserve and require assistance in ensuring they are able to meet their educational goals. With the completion of my Masters degree I have obtained knowledge and practical experience developing and implementing positive behaviour support plans with other teachers. I have also become a champion of the idea of Person Centered Planning and I have devised a program that takes the information derived from a PATHfinding session and translates that into a meaningful and practical IEP document. In addition my studies have given knowledge and the confidence to adapt curriculum from kindergarten to upper level academic courses like Biology 12 to any level learner. My experience working with youth and adults with special needs has strengthened my belief that all of us share an amazing capacity to learn and should in an inclusive environment. As a member of the Provincial Integration Support Program, this belief will guide my practice and ensure the diverse needs of all students are addressed and foster an environment where students feel safe and are able to learn in a variety of ways. I am confident that my experience and enthusiasm, together with my creative approach to teaching will compliment the values and beliefs of the Provincial Integration Support Program. I welcome the opportunity to discuss this possibility with you at your convenience. Sincerely,

Laura MacLellan