Alisha Cabana Nadeau
Middle School Humanities Teacher

Educational Overview
In my middle school Social Studies classroom, I am deeply driven to help every student find their voice and build lasting academic confidence. My approach is rooted in the belief that when we provide explicit instruction through a Universal Design lens, we empower learners to take true agency over their education. This portfolio reflects my journey, showcasing how I merge evidence-based neuroscience with creative humanities projects. Every lesson I design is an opportunity for students to share their unique perspectives and feel powerful in their ability to succeed and grow. I invite you to explore my Teaching Philosophy, Teaching Practice, and Pedagogical Examples to learn more about my work.
Education, Certifications & Professional Development
Academic Background
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Learning, Fitchburg State University | 2023
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Communication Media, Fitchburg State University | 2017
Certifications & Specialized Credentials
Special Education Law and Advocacy, Wrightslaw
Overcoming Dyslexia Certificate, Yale University | 2024
Brain Frames Certificate, Vivido | 2022
Visualizing and Verbalizing Certificate, Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes | 2025
Literacy & Language-Based Training
Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator, Friends Academy
Phonemic Awareness to Fluency, Landmark School Outreach Program
Language-Based Learning Disabilities Strategies, Landmark School Outreach Program
Narrative and Expository Writing Strategies, Landmark School Outreach Program
Scaffolded Strategies for Beginning Writers, Landmark School Outreach Program
Neuroscience & Brain-Based Pedagogy
Brain Plasticity and Reading, Learning & the Brain® | 2022
Building Brain City, Learning & the Brain®
Professional Affiliations
Member, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
Future Goals
Curriculum Innovation
Learn and integrate evidence-based pedagogical strategies into the core curriculum, with a focus on student motivation, engagement and critical thinking.
Student & Peer Feedback Systems
Continually checking in on my practice by implementing more effective methods for gathering and analyzing feedback to ensure my practices continue to evolve with the ever-changing dynamic of the student.
Professional Growth
Development of a personal pedagogy that connects to my overall goal of narrowing the gap between access and potential, with mastery of instructional skills to support academic advancement and personal voice.
Academic Advancement
Preparing for the academic job search and tenure process through documented evidence of instructional effectiveness.