The Creators
Lani Popp, M.S., CCC-SLP
Lani has been a practicing speech language pathologist for over 29 years. Her experience ranges from private practice to working in the public schools with students in preschool through high school.
Lani's personal experience with ADHD gives her a unique understanding of the needs of her students. She is committed to understanding the challenges her students face, both academically and socially. Lani recognizes the potential in each student and supports them in developing strategies to navigate learning in the general education environment and to teach them key social communication skills.
Lani has presented on social communication assessment and treatment at state, regional, and national conventions. She has also shared her knowledge about designing social skills groups within the social communication model with educators and related services providers.
Lani has loved, and continues to love, every minute of working as an SLP. She cannot imagine any other job and is thankful for this opportunity to share many years of experience with her Beyond Social Skills program.
Victoria Sills
Victoria has been working in education for over 26 years. She began her career in general education before teaching special education in settings ranging from residential treatment centers to self-contained classrooms within an elementary school setting. She is now a Certified School Counselor.
Victoria was inspired to pursue a career in education after admiring the knowledge and strength of her Grandmother who was a teacher. She became a special education teacher because, over time, she discovered she had the patience, determination, and natural ability to connect with this population. Now, as a school counselor, Victoria enjoys the freedom of working with both the general education and the special education population. She enjoys being able to support students when they are in crisis or need assistance in a certain area to improve themselves.
Victoria has presented on social communication assessment and treatment at state, regional, and national conventions. She has also shared her knowledge about designing social skills groups within the social communication model with educators and related services providers.
Victoria's goal is to support students in finding and feeling a sense of belonging and in developing and maintaining friendships. She brings her expansive background in education to the Beyond Social Skills program and is excited to be able to impact students beyond her home town.