“To leave people, systems, and places in better shape than when we found them”
Educational Services
New Teacher Mentoring
Through one-on-one guidance, reflective practices, and ongoing support, we help new teachers navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop a strong foundation for their teaching journey.
New Administrator Coaching
Our personalized coaching sessions equip new administrators with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to navigate their leadership roles successfully. Through targeted development plans, leadership assessments, and ongoing guidance, we accelerate their growth and effectiveness as transformative educational leaders.
Teacher Improvement Plans (TIPS) and Principal Improvement Plans (PIPS)
Personalized Roadmaps: Our experienced consultants work closely with schools to create made-to-measure improvement plans for teachers and principals. By conducting comprehensive needs assessments and analyzing past evaluations, we tailor address key areas for growth and opportunities to demonstrate these skills. Objective Observations: Unbiased observations help our consultants keenly observe teaching methodologies, classroom dynamics, and leadership practices, providing valuable insights that serve as a springboard for targeted improvement. Expert Coaching: Armed with insights from evaluations and observations, our skilled coaches engage educators and leaders in one-on-one coaching sessions. These sessions are designed to nurture strengths, address challenges, and provide actionable strategies for continuous growth and development.
Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) Support
At Karaton Educational Consulting and Coaching, we understand the critical significance of Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) as more than just documents; they are legal blueprints that define a student's unique learning journey. An IEP encapsulates the student's identity, learning style, needs, and a roadmap for accessing the general education curriculum. Our dedicated IEP Support program empowers educators, special education building/district staff, and stakeholders to master the art of crafting comprehensive IEPs that align with Part 200 compliance, while ensuring the student remains at the heart of every discussion.
Section 504 Support
We demystify the unique attributes of Section 504, clarifying its purpose and scope within the broader educational landscape. Our program ensures you grasp the significance of providing reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for students with disabilities. Addressing the common confusion, our training clearly differentiates Section 504 from the IEP/CSE process. We equip you with the knowledge to identify which students are eligible for a 504 plan and guide you through the essential steps of its development and implementation.
Co-Teaching Support
Co-teaching isn't just a technique; it's a skill that demands knowledge and strategy. Our program takes you beyond the basics, providing a deep understanding of co-teaching's purpose and mechanics. When executed seamlessly, co-teaching becomes a harmonious dance that involves all participants – educators, students, and support staff – working together in perfect synergy.
Team Development
Ever find yourself loving your job but struggling to connect with your colleagues? You're not alone – this common challenge might be quietly eroding your workplace culture. While individual performance is crucial, a cohesive team working toward shared objectives shines brighter than a group of isolated individuals. Our innovative approach is dedicated to bolstering team strength by unraveling the intricacies of team dynamics.
CliftonStrength Services
Charcuterie Quote Board Blog
The highs and lows, the joyful and joyless leaders and their impact. How do different leadership styles show joy? And uncover the impact of joylessness in leadership, revealing the void it creates, hindering growth and stifling creativity within teams.
Read More
Explore the journey from discontentment to caution against depression and discover how dissatisfaction can spark transformative change. Uncover the power D, V, F in starting conversations and preventing your organization from becoming the dreaded "C" word.
Read More
Collaboration, a topic that resonates deeply with educators, is our focus today. Collaboration permeates different aspects of the educational landscape, contributing to the collective growth, success, and continuous improvement of schools and students. We hear and see collaboration through PLCs, curriculum development, student support services, and almost all aspects of school leadership. So let’s explore one of my favorite quotes on collaboration to provide some context and connection to schools.
Read More
In this week's blog post, we explore the delicate balance between resilience and vulnerability by unpacking the quote, by Levi Lusko, "The problem isn't that you have felt burnt out, the problem perhaps is you didn't know what to do when you did feel that way. Pretending is preventing." This week, I get personal and emphasize the importance of authenticity and seeking support among life's blizzards. But be prepared, because of course, there's a twist. It's a narrative of growth, honesty, and the true strength found in acknowledging our struggles.
Read MoreSUBSCRIBE TO BLOG
Events
December Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable
Education is a dynamic field, and it's okay not to have all the answers. Sometimes, what we truly need is a listening ear, a different perspective, or the wisdom of colleagues who have walked a similar path. Welcome to the Karaton Collaborative Educators Roundtable, a platform designed to foster a vibrant community of educators who understand the unique challenges you face. Our mission is clear: to provide you with the support, connections, and insights you need to thrive in your role. You are not alone in this journey. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting, whether you're in special education, administration, science, or any other field, this is a place where we come together as a community. Together, we can find solutions, share experiences, and learn from each other.
- Date: 12/14/2023 04:00 PM
- Location Online Event
Read More
Tickets
Total
$0.00
Upcoming Events
| Title | Date | Day | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| January Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 18 Jan 2024 | Thursday | Online Event |
| February Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 15 Feb 2024 | Thursday | Online Event |
| March Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 21 Mar 2024 | Thursday | Online Event |
| April Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 25 Apr 2024 | Thursday | Online Event |
| May Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 16 May 2024 | Thursday | Online Event |
| June Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 20 Jun 2024 | Thursday | Online Event |
Past Events
| Title | Date | Day | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| November Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 16 Nov 2023 | Thursday | Online Event |
| October Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 26 Oct 2023 | Thursday | Online Event |
| September Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable | 21 Sep 2023 | Thursday | Online Event |
| Karaton Collaborative: Educators Roundtable (PILOT) | 17 Aug 2023 | Thursday | Online Event |
Karaton Resources
Coaching Resources
Explore our collection of free resources, and feel free to use them in your coaching practice. We believe that sharing knowledge and tools within the coaching community not only elevates the profession but also fosters collaboration and excellence. If you have any suggestions or specific topics you'd like to see covered in our future resources, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Teacher Resources
In this dedicated section, you'll find an array of valuable tools, materials, and insights designed to inspire your teaching, enhance your classroom experience, and promote professional growth. Whether you're seeking innovative teaching strategies, classroom activities, or personal development resources, we've got you covered.
Leadership Resources
In this dedicated section, you'll find a curated collection of resources designed to empower you in your leadership journey. From strategic planning and staff development to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, our resources are tailored to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities you encounter.
Professional Development Resources
In this dedicated section, you'll discover a wealth of resources carefully crafted to support your efforts in developing and refining the skills, knowledge, and abilities of professionals across various industries. From training materials and assessment tools to strategies for leadership development and employee engagement, our resources are here to equip you with the latest insights and best practices.
CliftonStrengths Resources
In this dedicated section, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. CliftonStrengths, based on the research of Don Clifton, offers a systematic approach to identifying and leveraging your inherent strengths. Whether you're exploring your own strengths or seeking to integrate CliftonStrengths into your workplace or educational institution, you'll find valuable tools and insights here.
Testimonials
About THE CEO
Melissa Laun is an experienced educator and leader with a passion for exceptional education and leadership. Holding an undergraduate degree in special and elementary education, as well as a master's degree in adolescent education, Melissa has contributed her expertise in diverse classroom settings and as an adjunct professor at the graduate level. She has also served as the Assistant Project Director for the New York State Response to Intervention Technical Assistance Center (NYS RtI TAC). Melissa furthered her educational journey by obtaining an advanced certificate in Educational Leadership, and she has held leadership roles as the Student and Support Services Director at a charter school, within the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), and as the Director of Special Education and Grants in a local school district.
With a deep commitment to alternative educational opportunities, a focus on strengths, and a dedication to taking educated risks in traditional education, Melissa advocates for shared services, hands-on training, and career and technical programming. As the CEO of Karaton, she actively seeks ways to support women in leadership and promote inclusivity for people with disabilities.
Guided by the company's values of honesty, continuous learning, and excellence, Melissa ensures that Karaton Consulting provides transparent and trustworthy guidance, fostering a culture of continuous learning and the highest standards of excellence.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Melissa finds parenting to be the most challenging yet rewarding role, considering it the hardest job in the world. Additionally, she holds her relationship with her husband in the highest regard, prioritizing it above all else in this world, second only to her beloved dog. With unwavering commitment and love, Melissa nurtures her family and cherishes the deep bond she shares with her husband of 20-plus years.
What you get when you hire me:
As a divergent thinker who takes personal psychological ownership of my thoughts and actions, you get a coach who is committed to honesty and excellence. I’m adept at dealing with problems and welcome opportunities to think through ideas, theories, and high-quality solutions.
I ask thought-provoking questions so we get directly to the root of problems and outline the right solutions. I get no joy at solving the wrong problem (no one has time for that). This involves discussing past events and collecting current evidence to anticipate potential future pitfalls and exciting new possibilities. I prefer the shortest route to eradicating deficiencies. All of this is done through a dignified and psychologically safe approach of honesty from all so we can quickly get to a place of doing better and celebrating success.
CERTIFIED
General Education
Special Education
Educational Administration
ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
Gallup CliftonStrengths coach
Effective Literacy coach (LLI)
Nationally certified in Facilitative Leadership through NYU.
AREAS OF SKILL
Instructional Coaching
Leadership Coaching
Teacher Coaching
Professional Coaching
Evaluations
Strategic Alignment and Improvement
Special Education
Team
Michael Laun
Development Partner
Michael is an unwavering force of commitment and growth, bringing a diverse background and a passion for our company's mission to the forefront. With a deep dedication and enthusiasm, Michael inspires excellence, serving as a Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, and nurturing the development of individuals and teams.
Contact
- 7954 Transit Rd, Williamsville, NY 14221
- PMB 157