Biography
Kendra Turner M.S. Ed., is a special education consultant who specializes in organizational programming for individuals with autism. Her consultation practice focuses on the integration and implementation of research-based practices for individuals with autism with an emphasis on logistically feasible solutions for organizations, primarily public school systems and private school entities. She possesses an in-depth understanding of the inner workings of public school systems and works to help schools achieve a balance between best practices for students and fiscal responsibilities.
Kendra has extensive experience working with students diagnosed with autism with a wide range of abilities. A hallmark of her practice is the integration of the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis into classroom engineering and design frameworks for both special education and inclusive education environments. These environments are structured to increase student communication, enhance students’ social skills, and increase students’ acquisition of skills while reducing contextually inappropriate behaviors. Contextually inappropriate behaviors are addressed using a team approach to the Functional Behavior Assessment process and behavior solutions are rooted in the development of effective replacement behaviors.
Kendra earned her Master’s Degree in Special Education from Florida State University and her certificate in Behavior Analysis and Therapy from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. She holds professional educator certificates in both Florida and Illinois. Her experience as a classroom teacher, district- level program specialist, consultant, and as the sibling of an adult with autism gives her a balanced view of the autism spectrum. Kendra is a member of the Autism Society of America and the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities.
During her time as an autism consultant, Kendra has guided school districts in the Chicago area towards comprehensive, research-based programming for students on the autism spectrum. Specific work includes program assessment, program development, case consultation, sensory environment planning, design and delivery of comprehensive professional development, and the development of a parent and professional network.