Early Intervention Mrs. Joanne Brielmann ext 2619 joanne_brielmann@whps.org

Reading Specialist Kate Schreijack

kate_schreijack@whps.org  ext 2620

Carolyn Golbabai, M.S., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

My role as a speech language pathologist involves the assessment and treatment of children with all types of communication difficulties. Since most academic and real-life learning occurs through spoken and/or written language, it is important to consider the language competence of a student who is having learning difficulties. These difficulties are often evident in learning to decode words and understanding what is read. In addition, language deficits can also be seen in a child’s ability to comprehend written or spoken information and his/her ability to accurately understand and use proper grammar. In the area of expressive language, difficulties are seen in speech sound production, stuttering and social language skills. At Aiken Elementary School, treatment for weaknesses in the above mentioned areas involve small group instruction utilizing a collaborative approach between the Speech-Language Pathologist and the Classroom teacher. Children who are already identified through the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) process and have specific Individualized Education Plan (IEP) objectives receive services. Other children that have difficulties in the areas of speech and language are referred by teachers and/or parents. Observations of the child and strategies to implement in the classroom are tried prior to the initiation of the Planning and Placement Team process. I am here at Aiken school five days per week. If you would like to contact me about questions concerning your child’s speech and language skills, please call me at 860-233-6994, ext. 112 or email me at mailto:carolyn_golbabai@whps.org. For further information about speech and language please visit the American Speech and Language Association website:www.asha.org/public/speech development/

My role as school psychologist includes supporting students, families, and teachers in a variety of ways. I offer individual and group counseling, with an emphasis on developing social skills and coping abilities. I am particularly interested in enhancing students’ social thinking abilities and helping all students establish meaningful relationships at school. I often consult with teachers to address challenging behaviors and support student learning in the classroom.

I also conduct psychological evaluations to help determine eligibility for special education services. When needed, I participate in crisis intervention and assist families in locating resources outside of school. I work with students who have individual plans, such as IEPs or 504 plans, as well as regular education students who are experiencing difficulties, such as anxiety, social difficulties, attention problems, and many others.

This is my eleventh year working as a school psychologist but my first year at Aiken. I’m thrilled to be joining the Aiken team! Outside of school, I enjoy music, hiking with my family and energetic dog, traveling, and cheering for the UConn Huskies!

If you have a concern about your child, please don’t hesitate to contact me by phone or email.

Karin Mrotek, MS, CAGS

(860) 929-5411

Karin_Mrotek@whps.org

At Aiken Elementary School the special education and general education teachers work closely together to foster learning environments that support students in their work toward attaining West Hartford's academic standards. Individual student needs are identified and programs are planned through the Planning and Placement Team (PPT). The PPT identifies students who are eligible to receive special education services and then design Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). To the maximum extent possible, students participate in the general education curriculum with supports, services, and instruction designed to allow them to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in a variety of ways.