Thara Srikanth
Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Education Specialist
[email protected]
Kamalathara Srikanth, known as Ms. Thara, embarked on a journey that spans continents, intertwining her passion for education, behavior analysis, and the betterment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Early Years and Education:
Originally hailing from southern India, Ms. Thara made a significant transition to the United States in 1996. Her academic pursuits began with a Bachelor's degree in Economics/Finance from Madras Christian College, Chennai, in 1993. Further enriching her knowledge, she earned a Masters Degree in Economics/Finance from Meenakshi College for Women, Kodambakkam, Chennai, in 1995. Ms. Srikanth continued her educational journey by obtaining a Masters in Special Education from The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) in 2004. Driven by a commitment to facilitating the development of students and individuals with ASD, she pursued post-masters coursework in Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Cloud State University, Minnesota, culminating in her becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in May 2010.
Professional Journey:
Ms. Thara's career commenced in India, where she served as a college lecturer at SDNB Vaishnav College for Women in Chromepet, Chennai, teaching Marketing, Business Organization, and Management to bachelor's level students from 1995 to 1996. Upon relocating to the United States, she initially explored the field of finance as an account temp before transitioning to education in 2002. Her dedication to education led her to work as a floating substitute teacher in the Mercer County Special Services School District, where she concurrently pursued her Masters in Special Education at TCNJ. Subsequently, she served as a substitute teacher in the East Windsor Regional School District before finding her niche in the North Hanover Township School District. From 2005 to 2009, Ms. Thara worked as a Special Education Teacher at C.B. Lamb Elementary School in the Multiple Disabilities classroom for K-6th grade. Since September 2009, she has been a pivotal member of the North Hanover Township School District, contributing as a Behavior Specialist.
Behavior Analysis Expertise:
Beyond her role in the school setting, Ms. Thara extends her expertise by consulting and providing behavioral services for individuals diagnosed with ASD. As a Behavior Analyst, she conducts comprehensive behavioral assessments and utilizes various assessment tools such as VB MAPP, ABLLS, Essentials for Living (EFLS), and Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS). Ms. Thara collaborates with other related service providers, applying the principles of applied behavior analysis to develop and implement educational and behavioral plans. Her role encompasses analyzing data, writing and revising behavior-analytic plans, training others, and overseeing plan implementation.
Leisure Pursuits:
Outside the realm of academia and behavior analysis, Ms. Thara finds joy in a diverse array of leisure activities. She enjoys watching movies in different languages, experimenting with new recipes, spending quality time with friends and family, immersing herself in books, and finding tranquility by the beach.
Kamalathara Srikanth's life and career reflect a fusion of academic achievement, professional dedication, and a compassionate commitment to enhancing the lives of those with ASD. Her multifaceted journey embodies a holistic approach to education and behavior analysis, making a positive impact on the individuals and communities she serves.