311 North Orange Street, New Smyrna Beach, Florida 32168, United States
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    • Home
    • About Us
    • School Program
    • ABA Therapy
    • Get Started
    • Our Approach
    • Funding
    • FAQ
    • Family Resources
    • Foundation
  • Home
  • About Us
  • School Program
  • ABA Therapy
  • Get Started
  • Our Approach
  • Funding
  • FAQ
  • Family Resources
  • Foundation
A

About Us

Dr. Amy Michaelis, Ed.D., BCBA, President/Co-Founder

 Meet Amy, a distinguished professional in education and behavior analysis, holding certifications as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Certified K-12 Special Education Teacher in Florida. Amy has attained a doctorate degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Administration and Leadership. Her doctoral dissertation, titled "Using Applied Behavior Analysis to Improve Reading Abilities in Children with Dyslexia," showcases her commitment to advancing educational practices. Amy is an accomplished academic, having presented at local professional conferences on ABA in Public Schools and the application of ABA to treat Dyslexia. As an adjunct professor at the University of West Florida, she imparts BACB-approved coursework to future analysts, contributing to the development of the next generation of professionals.


With over fifteen years of experience, Amy has excelled in creating individualized programs for students with disabilities, teaching in PK-5th grade classrooms, and implementing Applied Behavior Services in various settings. Her passion lies in advocating for and working with children with disabilities, culminating in the establishment of the Upward Trend Academy—a significant achievement and realization of her dream.


Beyond her professional accomplishments, Amy is a lifelong resident of the New Smyrna Beach area. She is a devoted wife to an aeronautical engineer, a nurturing mom to three amazing kids, and a loving dog mom to a sweet cavapoo, Ruby. She finds joy in spending quality time with her family and relaxing in her pool.


amichaelis@upwardtrendacademy.com

Lindsay Strausbaugh, M.Ed., BCBA, Vice President/Co-Founder

Meet Lindsay Strausbaugh, a highly accomplished BCBA based in New Smyrna Beach. Lindsay is not only a Certified Special Education Teacher but also holds a PK-3 certification, showcasing her dedication to early childhood education. A proud graduate of New Smyrna Beach High School, Lindsay has deep roots in NSB, having lived there since childhood.


With over 9 years of experience, Lindsay has made a significant impact on education, teaching and serving students with varying exceptionalities in both general education and ESE classrooms within the public school system. Her expertise extends to early childhood education, and she has a proven track record in providing Applied Behavioral Analysis services in both home and center-based settings.


Lindsay's passion goes beyond the classroom, as she actively disseminates the field of applied behavior analysis to local caregivers, families, educators, and even first responders. Her multifaceted expertise and commitment make Lindsay a driving force in education and applied behavior analysis in the New Smyrna Beach community. Notably, she co-owns Upward Trend Academy in New Smyrna Beach, FL, where she plays a pivotal role in designing and implementing curriculum for students. Lindsay also dedicates herself to training teachers on effective academic instruction and classroom management strategies.


Beyond her professional achievements, Lindsay is a devoted mother of two young children, engaged to be married, and the proud owner of a dachshund named Bentley. 



lstrausbaugh@upwardtrendacademy.com

Qualifications of Other Instructional Personnel

Pursuant to 1002.421(1)(j), Florida statues requires all of our teachers and staff to hold a Bachelor's degree or have specialized training and expertise (Registered Behavior Technician) before working with our students. Specific information regarding teacher's and staff's training and education can be provided at any time on request.

Meet our Leadership Team

Stephanie Swinton, MS, BCBA

Stephanie Swinton, MS, BCBA

Stephanie Swinton, MS, BCBA

Clinical Director

Zhakiya Faircloth, BS, RBT

Stephanie Swinton, MS, BCBA

Stephanie Swinton, MS, BCBA

Student Analyst/Therapy Team Coordinator

Sara Costello, BA, BCaBA

Sara Costello, BA, BCaBA

Sara Costello, BA, BCaBA

BCaBA/ Developmental Lead

Mandolyn Rorem, RBT

Sara Costello, BA, BCaBA

Sara Costello, BA, BCaBA

Assistant Director of School Programming/RBT

Join Our Team!




We have a remarkable team and are always looking for certified RBTs to join our team.

 Please email your resume to info@upwardtrendacademy.com

RBT Job Listing (pdf)Download

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