07/08/2026
Dear TBHA Families and friends,
The Behavior Helper Academy is excited to formally introduce Dr. Julie Presswood as our new Director of Special Education.
Dr. Presswood brings more than two decades of experience in special education, school leadership, IEP processes, instructional planning, and systems-level support. She began her career in the Cahokia School District, where she spent 15 years serving students with diverse learning needs. Her career began as a special education paraprofessional, and she later earned her Master’s degree in Cross-Categorical Special Education from Webster University, followed by a second Master’s degree in Educational Administration.
Dr. Presswood went on to serve as a Functional Life Skills Special Education Teacher and Administration Intern at Edwardsville High School, where she also gained leadership experience as an assistant principal. Most recently, she served as a Special Education Supervisor in a cooperative setting, supporting two school districts from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. In that role, she worked across programs and teams to strengthen special education services, support compliance, and improve student outcomes.
Dr. Presswood also earned her Doctorate in Education from National University, further strengthening her expertise in educational leadership, instructional practice, and special education systems.
In her role at The Behavior Helper Academy, Dr. Presswood will support special education programming, compliance, instructional planning, IEP processes, collaboration with families and sending districts, and continued development of systems that support our students, staff, and organizational mission. Her leadership aligns strongly with TBHA’s commitment to individualized, evidence-based practices, collaborative teamwork, and data-informed decision making.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Presswood to The Behavior Helper Academy! We are grateful for the experience, professionalism, and heart she brings to this role, and we are excited for the positive impact she will have on our students, families, staff, and district partners.
Blessings,
Mandi O’Mara, Ed.S., BCBA, LBA, IBA
CEO / Head of School
The Behavior Helper Academy