Grace Fantaroni

Dr. Grace Fantaroni serves as a Professor of Special Education in the School of Education at Point Loma Nazarene University. She specializes in autism spectrum disorders, trauma-informed teaching, and inclusive educational frameworks. Her career includes 15 years as a K-12 special education teacher and autism specialist in San Diego Unified School District.

Education

• Ed.D., Educational Leadership, Alliant International University
• M.A., Teaching and Special Education, National University
• B.S., Education, Elementary and Special Education, University of Delaware

Research Focus

Her research integrates positive behavior supports, communication strategies for nonverbal students, and family-centered approaches for diverse populations. She co-created California Department of Education-approved curriculum for autism awareness and developed documentary-based educational tools.

Publications Overview

Recent work emphasizes trauma-informed pedagogy, universal design for learning, and visual communication systems for autism. Collaborative studies explore self-determination theory in special education classrooms.

Awards

• Hero for Heroes, PLNU (2021)
• Excellence in Teaching Award (2018-2019)
• NFAR Community Grant (2020-2022)
• Better Together Grant (2018)
• County of San Diego Volunteer of the Year (2009)

Professional Engagement

Active in the Council for Exceptional Children, California Autism Professional Training Network (CAPTAIN), and statewide curriculum development initiatives. Conducts professional workshops for K-12 institutions on behavior support and assessment alignment.