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Special Education

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Individualization Optimizes Growth

We learn specific skills to help us personally grow and participate as productive citizens.
 
Our Special Education Department creates individualized learning plans for students with targeted strategies to optimize growth and performance. They collaborate with each other and our entire staff to create a strong support system for our students.

Meet Our Specialists

Amber Chesney, Learning Specialist/Moderate Needs 
  • Bachelors in Special Education, Generalist K-12, University of Northern Colorado Center for Urban Education

I am a Colorado native and used to live in Pine.  The terrible wildfires in 2002 and a blizzard that dumped over 6 feet of snow and collapsed my garage, inspired me to move down the hill and that is when my interest in the field of education began. I have been working with students with special needs since 2007 and have loved helping them work on meeting their goals and gaining their independence. I started at LTE in 2020 and I am still very excited and look forward to supporting students with their academic goals!

Contact me: Amber.Chesney@dcsdk12.org

Becky Evans - Psychologist

  • Bachelors in Psychology from Penn State University

  • Education Specialist (Ed.S) from Temple University

I am new to Colorado, originally from the South Jersey/Philadelphia area. I have always been passionate about working with kids from my first job as a gymnastics coach to finishing graduate school for school psychology in 2023. During my time in school, I volunteered as a research assistant for an emotion-regulation-focused lab and worked for Philadelphia Early Intervention, specializing in evidence-based interventions for young children with ASD. I believe that with the right tools, all students can succeed in the classroom and thrive in their lives. In my free time, I enjoy running, hiking with my dog, watching movies, and doing art projects. I am looking forward to working with the students at Lone Tree Elementary!

Contact me: revans1@dcsdk12.org

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Nicole Heintz, Speech-Language Pathologist 
  • BA in Communication Disorders and Sciences, Louisiana State University

  • Master's in Communication Disorders and Sciences, specialization in Speech-Language Pathology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center

Originally a transplant from Louisiana, I’ve lived in several states while supporting my husband’s career—each move enriching my perspective both personally and professionally. I’ve been a speech-language pathologist for 20 years (yes, 20!), and I still find deep joy in the growth and pride my students experience as they reach their goals. Outside of work, I spend my time watching my son play a variety of sports, squeezing in time for Pilates, running, hiking, caring for my plants, and enjoying a lavender latte with a good paperback in hand. I look forward to working with your student and family!

Contact me: Nicole.Heintz@dcsdk12.org

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Beth Levine - Speech-Language Pathologist 
  • B.S. in Speech Pathology & Audiology, Miami University

  • M.A. in Speech Language Pathology, The University of Toledo

Born and raised in Ohio, I moved to Colorado in 2006, where I met my husband and built both my family and career.  I have experience serving a wide range of ages and communication needs in school-based settings.  I am passionate about bringing a warm and encouraging, student-centered approach to speech and language therapy and enjoy watching my students grow in confidence and communication.  Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, crafts, reading, and cheering on my two daughters as they play sports.

Contact me: elevine2@dcsdk12.org

Lucy Lowe - Occupational Therapist

  • Bachelors from Louisiana State University
  • Master's in Occupational Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate, Elizabethtown College

I am a Colorado transplant from Louisiana.  With three amazing kids I keep busy with their various sports and activities. When not busy (ha!), you'll likely find me with a book in my hand or working on a quilt. When working with students, I utilize a "just right" challenge approach by assessing their individual needs and tailoring tasks accordingly for students to feel successful in their learning and skills. I also make OT enjoyable so students are comfortable and look forward to coming to our sessions. 

Contact me: llowe@dcsdk12.org

Violetta Sieron, Learning Specialist/Moderate Needs
  • Masters in Special Education, University of Colorado Denver
  • Master in Food Technology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Science

I am a passionate education professional with over 15 years of experience in teaching children in Poland as well as the USA. My philosophy as a teacher is to focus on students as individuals, to understand their strengths and weaknesses, and to understand how they can best learn to reach their greatest potential. When not at work, I love spending time with my family and friends, traveling, skiing, sailing, playing board games, and reading.

Contact me: Violetta.Sieron@dcsdk12.org