Lidia Freire

I am a passionate educator with over 15 years of experience in special education and language instruction. My background spans teaching diverse student populations, including English Language Learners and Students with Disabilities, in both traditional and online environments. I bring expertise in designing inclusive, student-centered curricula that leverage educational technology and data-driven strategies to enhance learning outcomes.

I have a deep understanding of the importance of accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, and I am adept at integrating these into instructional design to create engaging, compliant, and effective online courses. My collaborative nature, coupled with my experience in project management and curriculum development, makes me an asset in supporting faculty and driving innovative course design. As I transition into instructional design, I aim to bring my expertise in education and technology to deliver impactful, high-quality online learning experiences.

With over 15 years in education, I have a rich background in teaching and instructional design. My career began in Brazil, where I taught Portuguese and English to diverse student populations. Upon relocating to New York City, I joined the NYC Teaching Collaborative and taught high school and middle school students, including those with disabilities and English Language Learners (ELLs).

In NYC, I co-designed and implemented rigorous ELA curricula, managed IEPs, and used technology to enhance learning. My recent move to Pike Road, Alabama, has provided me with the opportunity to expand my expertise in special education and instructional design. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education and exploring roles that leverage my skills in creating inclusive and effective learning environments.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil, which laid the foundation for my understanding of developmental and educational psychology. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education (7-12) from Touro University, focusing on inclusive education practices and instructional strategies. Additionally, I completed the NYC Teaching Collaborative/DOE program, which provided practical experience in teaching and curriculum development within diverse and challenging classroom settings.