People

Ellen Swanson currently serves as the associate director of strategic initiatives for CAREI at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis/St. Paul.  The University of Minnesota is Swanson's graduate school alma mater where she received  educational specialist (EdS) and doctor of philosophy (PhD) degrees in educational psychology as well as principal, director of special education and superintendent administrative certifications. Swanson was recently appointed to this position at the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) and is helping to lead efforts related to ensuring that internal and external stakeholders are engaging in equitable practices.  In addition, she is supporting districts with implementing evidence-based interventions, specifically related to addressing the SEL, behavior and mental health needs of children. Swanson is also focused on building and identifying equity, SEL and wellness tools and resources to assist school districts and organizations in improving data-based decision-making practices in order to improve outcomes for children and families.

Prior to this role, Swanson served as an assistant superintendent for student/special services for two PreK-8th grade elementary school districts in the state of Illinois from 2010 to 2023. She has also held several administrative leadership and educational roles in various K-12 settings throughout her educational career in Illinois and Minnesota including special education supervisor, principal, assistant principal, program facilitator and school psychologist.

At a district level Swanson has provided leadership and guidance in developing an organizational system and MTSS framework,  both in the academic and social emotional learning areas. She also has extensive experience working as an educational administrator serving students with a wide range of disabilities in general education and special education settings, juveniles in correctional and residential treatment programs, and youth with mental health and substance abuse issues. In her roles as assistant superintendent, Swanson was responsible for overseeing special education, early childhood, social emotional learning, student behavior and discipline, crisis management, English learning, bilingual, and homeless education programs. She also supervised all of the special education and related services staff within the district including social work, psychology, health, speech and language, occupational therapy, physical therapy, vision, orientation/mobility, assistive technology, behavior specialists and paraeducators.  

One of the most important responsibilities Swanson has had in her career includes spending a significant amount of time supporting families and caregivers who have children with unique educational needs and require individualized education plans (IEP’s). Swanson has been a passionate and tireless advocate for children with disabilities during the past 27 years she has worked in education. Swanson is extremely knowledgeable about how to navigate the educational evaluation process, initiate special education services, and access school based supports for students. She is able to quickly identify student needs as well as the supports, interventions,  accommodations, and services that may be needed for children to be most successful in school.  She is also able to support students and families when complaints are filed at the district level. She is especially skilled at conflict resolution and in finding creative solutions when there are situations that require administrative support and attention. Swanson is an experienced presenter, accomplished author, and has held various leadership positions at the state level, both in Minnesota and Illinois.