Mehreen Ashfaq

Background

About Mehreen Ashfaq

As a Permanent Secondary Educational Assistant at Durham Catholic School Board, I have gained extensive experience supporting students with complex needs in inclusive educational settings. I served a long-term assignment as an Assistive Technology Specialist with Student Services at OMAC, where I led the integration of digital tools to optimize accessibility for diverse learners. In this role, I trained both students and staff on using Read & Write and OrbitNote to support academic success. I am also proficient with Apple devices (iPad, Mac), Microsoft Office programs, and built-in Mac accessibility features. Previously, I served as a Behaviour Support Specialist (Centrally Assigned) with DCDSB, where I developed a strong foundation in supporting student growth across varying skill levels. I have designed and implemented individualized goals and strategies informed by IEPs, Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA), and Behaviour Intervention Plans (BIP) to promote student development both academically and socially. I hold an Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma and a post-graduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science (ABS). I am currently working toward my Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) with a specialization in Special Education and Digital Technology in Ed at Ontario Tech University. These academic pathways have deepened my understanding of inclusive education, child development, and the importance of early intervention and differentiated instruction. As a certified RBT, I have accumulated over supervised hours under an RBA and currently work as a Senior Autism Instructor Therapist/Behaviour Clinician. In this role, I provide 1:1 ABA/IBI therapy, develop intervention plans, and support and mentor new staff working with neurodiverse children. I bring a collaborative, student-centered approach to all of my roles, working closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement evidence-based interventions that address students’ academic, social-emotional, and self-regulation needs. My work is grounded in data collection, critical observation, running records, and other proven strategies that promote student success. I am passionate about inclusive education and committed to helping every learner thrive. My combined experience in education, behaviour science, and assistive technology uniquely positions me to support diverse student needs and promote equity in every classroom I serve.