ABOUT
Judy Bear
With over two decades of experience in the Ontario Education system, Judy has developed a student-centred approach to solving problems and improving students’ performance.
In collaboration with families, fellow educators, administrators and other services, she supports students to achieve their educational goals in an environment of inclusion and equity. She relies on creating positive interactions when seeking the personal success and expectations for all students and families she supports.
When not working to provide student centred support, Judy pursues her passion of creating art, primarily through oil painting, cheering on her adult children, family and pets, and enjoying the Ontario countryside.
Credentials
2024 – Present – Principle of The Students' Advocate
2023-2024 – DCDSB – Transition Support teacher – supporting schools and teachers with the changes in the Ontario curriculum – Math and Equity focussed
2019-2023 – DCDSB – Curriculum Chair of Program Support (Special Education) – managing a large team of teachers and support staff in a large Durham
based secondary school to create a positive environment to navigate the educational supports available to those with recent diagnosis and IEP’s/IPRC’s.2001 – 2024 – Durham Catholic District School Board (retired). A Resources Teacher for Special Education, Visual Arts and Mathematics at the
secondary school level2007 UOIT – Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT #512332)
1991- 2001 – Durham College – Adult based Visual Art courses, curriculum creation and delivery
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Symposium 2024 – Geneva Centre for Autism
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ABA Level 2 -2024 Sonderly/Geneva Centre for Autism
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ADHD in the Classroom - 2024 Sonderly/Geneva Centre for Autism
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FBA – Functional Behavioural Analysis - 2024 Sonderly/Geneva Centre for Autism
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Core teaching Strategies for ASD in the classroom - 2024 Sonderly/Geneva Centre for Autism
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Structured Literacy
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Symposium 2018 – Geneva Centre for Autism
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ABA Level 1 -2017 Sonderly/Geneva Centre for Autism
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Special Education Specialist 2016
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Assist Training/Safe Talk
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Traumatic Events Systems (TES) CTIP
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Level 2 VTRA Training
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Level 1 VTRA Training
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Mental Health First Aid (MHFA Canada)
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"You have put so much time and effort into making sure I am on the right path, both as a student and as a person. I can’t thank you enough for all you have done for me."
C. S.
Student
“…most importantly, I would like to thank you for all of your tireless hours advocating for our kids … you have made a significant impact in their lives.”
J.N.
Parent
“In the past few years, you have been a source of encouragement, kindness and guidance…”
K.F.
Student
“… I truly appreciate the ways you went the extra mile to support my child.”
A.D.
Parent
“Thank you so much for setting aside time to hear our concerns and work with us to put a plan in place… we both feel encouraged by the discussion and the plans.”
M.S.
Parent
“ Your kind words and friendly personality drew us towards you as a safe and trustworthy person.”
K.S.
Student
“Your knowledge and willingness to help navigate the challenges we face as our kids grow older … has been truly invaluable”
J.N.
Parent
“Thank you for contributing to the success of our Students. And thank you for your excellent work this year on our team.”
M.O.
School Admin