Heather Berry
Heather Berry is a Special Education Teacher at Bitterroot Valley Educational Cooperative with 13 years of experience, dedicating her entire teaching career to serving students with diverse learning needs. She currently supports children ages 3 to 5 in a cooperative preschool setting that serves five small districts, providing comprehensive services including speech therapy, occupational and physical therapy, psychological support, and a specialized preschool program. After previously serving as an elementary special education case manager, Heather transitioned into her current preschool-focused role, bringing extensive expertise in individualized instruction, early intervention, and inclusive learning environments.
Heather’s path into education was both purposeful and experiential. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and began her career in mental health, working in a day treatment setting with children who had severe needs, including those at risk of inpatient placement. Following several relocations across Montana due to her husband’s state-level law enforcement career, she reentered the workforce as an occupational therapy assistant. Collaborating closely with a special education preschool teacher sparked her passion for the field and led her to pursue a Master of Education in Special Education from Walden University, specializing in social-emotional behavioral disorders. In addition to her classroom work, Heather brings a strong coaching philosophy shaped by 18 years of coaching high school girls’ basketball, emphasizing encouragement, accountability, and growth.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Heather is a lifelong learner and advocate for innovative practices in special education. She trains horses and supports hippotherapy programs that benefit children with special needs, thoughtfully connecting therapeutic approaches with educational outcomes. Continuously expanding her knowledge—whether through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques, sign language, or foundational Braille skills—she remains committed to professional excellence. Heather Berry embodies professionalism, empathy, and curiosity, inspiring meaningful progress in her students, colleagues, and the broader educational community.
• CPR Certification
• CPI Training (Crisis Prevention Intervention - Restraint and De-escalation)
• Teacher Trainer Certification
• ABA-related professional development
• Walden University - MEd
• Therapeutic Writing Center (Washington State)
• Hippotherapy Advocacy for Special Needs Kids
What do you attribute your success to?
I would say probably the relationships that I can establish with families that are ongoing past the time where I service their kids. Two mentors really made a big impression on me throughout my career. That first preschool teacher, Paula Weiland, who lives in [location unclear in transcript], was kind of the reason this whole thing started. And Lori Gilling was my first special education director, and she was great. Those two specifically stand out as people who really influenced my path and helped shape who I am as an educator.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be prepared to find greater patience than you expected. Special education is deeply rewarding; seek mentors, explore different roles (resource vs. self-contained), and consider advancing your degree(s) because undergraduate preparation cannot cover all realities of special education.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges include stigma around special education and structural issues in rural districts that cannot individually staff specialists. Opportunities include increased visibility for special education's rewards, networking with cross-disciplinary leaders, and cooperative service models that expand access.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Curiosity, continual learning, asking questions and finding answers, professionalism balanced with grace, and prioritizing meaningful relationships with families.