Columbia Elementary is excited to welcome Katy Byrd as our new Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), a role that builds upon the five (5) years she has already dedicated to our school community as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).
“I was drawn to the BCaBA position at Columbia because it allows me to work closely with both students and staff in creating effective, evidence-based supports,” Ms. Byrd shared. “The team at Columbia has a strong foundation, with great administrative leadership and staff who are committed to creating the best learning environment for students. The chance to continue working with this dedicated team in an expanded role is something I find both motivating and rewarding."
As a BCaBA, Ms. Byrd will collaborate with staff, administrators, and families to design, implement, and monitor behavior intervention plans while also strengthening proactive, schoolwide supports that benefit all students. Guided by the principles of compassion, collaboration, consistency, and evidence-based practice, she is committed to ensuring interventions are individualized, data-driven, and aimed at fostering independence.
“My goal is for Columbia to be a place where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn, and where staff feel equipped and empowered to help every child succeed.,” she explained. “When staff are equipped and confident, students thrive academically, socially, and behaviorally.”
Her career in education began as an instructional assistant in a structured preschool program, an experience that quickly revealed her passion for supporting children and helping staff succeed in working with students who have challenging behaviors. Over the years, she has developed strong collaborative relationships across campus and gained deep insight into Columbia’s unique strengths and needs.
Some of her favorite memories come from building trust with students who have often been “given up on” and watching them grow in skills and confidence. She also treasures the opportunity to mentor staff, helping them feel capable and supported in their work.
Outside of school, Ms. Byrd enjoys CrossFit, hiking in the Emigrant Wilderness, coaching her daughter Sophia’s soccer team, and spending time with friends and family.
Fast Facts
Favorite Books in Elementary School: The Boxcar Children, Goosebumps, and Harry Potter
Favorite Book as an Adult: The Nightingale (anything by Jodi Picoult)
Favorite Movies in Elementary School: "The Lion King," "Spirit," "Free Willy," and "Balto"
Favorite Movies as an Adult: All Marvel movies.
Favorite Games at Recess: Soccer, wall ball, four square.
Favorite School Lunch: Classic school pizza or Lunchables.