Magdalena Casimiro
Magdalena Casimiro serves as the Director of Summit Academy at ESD 113, where she leads efforts to create supportive, evidence-based learning environments for students with behavioral and academic challenges. With a strong background in behavior analysis and educational leadership, she has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for children and adolescents through compassionate, skill-based interventions.
Before assuming her current role, Magdalena gained extensive experience as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at BASICS NW, where she also worked as a Certified Behavior Technician. Her tenure in these roles allowed her to develop and implement behavior support programs, mentor emerging professionals, and collaborate with schools to address complex behavioral needs. She later advanced to Regional Administrator for Behavior Supports at ESD 113, overseeing programs that enhanced student success across multiple school districts.
Magdalena holds a Master’s degree from the University of Washington and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The Evergreen State College. She is recognized for her expertise in mental health, group therapy, and evidence-based behavioral interventions. Passionate about fostering inclusive and supportive educational environments, she continues to advocate for innovative strategies that empower students, educators, and families alike.
• BCBA
• University of Washington - M.Ed.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my commitment to lifelong learning. Going back to school and continuously seeking new knowledge has been instrumental in shaping my growth and achievements.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Taking care of yourself is key. Prioritizing your well-being, setting boundaries, and maintaining balance will help you stay resilient and thrive as you build your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is preventing staff burnout while supporting students with behavioral needs. At the same time, this challenge presents an opportunity: by creating a supportive, well-resourced environment for staff, we can improve outcomes for students and foster a stronger, more resilient team.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are growth, support, and integrity. My education at the University of Washington and Evergreen State College, along with my journey from behavior technician to board-certified behavior analyst and director of Summit Academy, have reinforced the importance of continuous learning and professional development. In my current role overseeing a therapeutic program for students with complex behavioral needs, I prioritize supporting and training staff to ensure they feel valued and equipped, while always maintaining high standards of care and ethical practice.
Locations
ESD 113
Chehalis, WA 98532