College of Education and Human Development

Department of Educational Psychology

Charissa O'Neill

  • Special education field placement coordinator, teaching specialist

Charissa O'Neill

Areas of interest

  • Diversity in teacher preparation programs
  • Early intervention
  • Inclusive classrooms
Degrees

MEd, George Mason University
BA, University of Minnesota Duluth

Biography

Charissa O’Neill is the Field Placement Coordinator for the Special Education Program. In this role, she coordinates both student teaching and practicum experiences for students. She also provides academic advising for both the Autism and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) licensure programs.

Charissa earned her master’s degree in ECSE. Prior to working at the University of Minnesota, she was a teacher in a variety of private and public settings; homes, community programs, special education self-contained, inclusive and collaborative classrooms. She implemented individualized education plans for culturally, linguistically, ability, and learning style diverse learners in collaboration with families, teachers, and specialists, provided socio-emotional management coaching to early childhood teachers and programs, and volunteered on teams working diligently on closing the achievement gap. 

Courses Taught:

  • EPsy 3701/5701: Practicum: Field Experience in Special Education
  • EPsy 5015/5016: Teaching Students with Special Needs in Inclusive Environments
  • EPsy 5704: Practicum in Middle/Secondary Settings
  • EPsy 5705: Practicum in ECSE/Elementary Settings