Monica S. McDonald MEd, MA

Monica is originally from Northern New Jersey and has a Master of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from The George Washington University and a Master of Education Degree in Administration and Supervision from The University of Virginia.  She is licensed to teach Special Education (birth to eight) with an endorsement in Administration and Supervision (PreK-12). 

Monica’s work experience includes working as a Child Life Specialist, teaching preschool special education, providing early intervention in the natural environment and working with community based preschool students with developmental delays in schools and settings throughout Fairfax County.  She also served as an Autism Specialist for the Hawaii Department of Education and Alexandria City Public Schools.

Monica works with families and young children to find solutions and help children make progress in the following areas: 

• Play Skills 

• Cognitive/Academic Skills (Early Literacy and Numeracy)

• Behavior 

• Self Help/Adaptive Skills (including toileting and toilet training) 

• Social Skills

• Language 

• Executive Functioning Skills and Attention

Her philosophies include working with a child’s strengths and needs and creating plans for families that work within their existing routines and priorities.  She also consults with and provides training to area private schools and daycares to ensure they are engaging in best practice and working toward strong outcomes for young children.

Monica lives with her husband and two daughters in Springfield, Virginia.