The Watson Institute
Michael Smith is an experienced educator with a strong background in special education and instructional support. Currently serving as an ES/ELA Teacher at Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit since August 2020, Michael also holds a long-standing position as a Special Education Instructional Assistant at The Watson Institute, where responsibilities include implementing specialized education programs for students with various disabilities. Michael has coached and developed sports performance curricula for youth and adults at WadeTrained and served as an Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach at Keystone Oaks School District. Michael’s educational credentials include a Master of Education in Special Education from Slippery Rock University and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from PennWest California.
The Watson Institute
Established in 1917, the Watson Institute is an educational organization specializing in educating children with special needs and in training the professionals and pre-professionals who serve those children. Its special education school programs are part of Pennsylvania’s Approved Private Schools. Annually our programs serve over 1,300 children ages 3 to 21. Our services include special education programs through our approved private schools, as well as psychological evaluations and outpatient therapy, and respite services for families. The Watson Institute also provides training and consultation services for school districts. Through our programs, the Watson Institute serves over 80 area school districts from twelve counties. Our mission at the Watson Institute is to help children and youth with special needs achieve their fullest potential in all aspects of their lives. Whether it’s an autism spectrum disorder, neurological impairment or another serious emotional challenge, The Watson Institute admits students without regard to gender, race, color, national origin or religious creed. The Watson Institute is an equal opportunity employer.