DSAW Webinar Series Presents: Exploring Individualized Educational Plans (IEP) & Expert Panel

3 local experts will share their knowledge of Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) and their experiences working in the field of special education. This webinar will cover certain aspects of the IEP process such as evaluation and goal setting as well as topics related to the transition to adulthood and utilizing supplementary supports.

This webinar is geared toward parents of students with Down syndrome and related disabilities who are seeking information about IEPs and want to ask questions. Educational professionals will also find this content valuable as well as those in the supportive services field.

Speakers

Elizabeth Streubel, Program Support Special Education-School District of Menomonee Falls

Elizabeth Streubel has 19 years of experience in the field of Special Education. She received her BA from UW-Madison and her Masters in Special Education from UW-Oshkosh. She worked as the Director of Pupil Services at Saint Marys University in Minnesota and earned her Principal Licensure.

During her career, she has taught special education at the high school, middle school, and elementary levels. She has developed and advocated for inclusive education models at the schools she has worked at. Elizabeth also has experience as a Behavior Coach and family and child advocate. She currently provides Program support for Special Education with the School District of Menomonee Falls.

Rachel Pankowski, Nicolet Community Enrichment (NCE)

Rachel joined the Nicolet team during the 2018-2019 school year. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2013. There she earned Wisconsin teaching certifications for Intellectual Disabilities, Emotional Behavioral Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, as well as Cross Categorical Special Education. She also has a Masters in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She earned her Transition Specialist certificate as well as her Autism Specialist certificate there. Rachel currently runs the beyond 18 transition program called “NCE, Nicolet Community Enrichment.” The NCE is a community-based program, that assists students with more complex needs during the transition from school to adulthood.

Jolene Deppiesse, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin and Nicolet High School

Jolene has been a part of DSAW for 4 years and is currently a program coordinator. She graduated from UW LaCrosse with a degree in Recreational Therapy. She has been closely involved with the Nicolet High School Transition program for the last 4 years and assisted with the development of the program. Within the program, she assists families to connect them to long-term funding services, DSAW services, and employment options to help create a successful plan as their child transitions into adulthood.