My name is Sara Schaefer, and I am your student’s IEP case manager this year. This is my 14th year teaching special education for Mendota District 289, 11 of which have been in this particular role as a resource teacher for students in 7th grade (and also for 6th and 8th graders in math). Right now, I am working to get to know your student and how I can best support them. I’m taking time to get to know personalities, interests, and work habits. 

You may be wondering, what exactly is a case manager? My role is to provide support/services within the regular education classroom as well as in the small group setting during what is called “Resource.” I also update IEP goals at the end of each grading period so you can see how your student is progressing towards their annual goals listed in the IEP. 

In the regular education setting, I do things like add to teachers’ discussions, provide extra examples for the class, ask questions I think students may be wondering, translate documents to students’ native language, provide clarification during the lesson, help students with note-taking, work with students in groups, or read aloud tests. Basically, the core teacher and I work together to help the class run as smoothly as possible while ensuring content is comprehensible for all learners.

During Resource time, I work with students on skills specific to their IEP goals. We also do things like study for tests, review skills, and organize materials. I also check in with students about grades or missing work and clarify directions on homework. My goal is to help each student set and achieve personal and academic goals while developing positive character traits that will allow them to find success now and in the future. If I am not the one who sees your student during the resource time period, I will be the one communicating with those teachers to ensure students are practicing and working towards their IEP goals. 

If you have any questions about your student’s homework, grades, or their IEP, please feel free to reach out. I can be contacted by email or through the Thrillshare app for Mendota 289. I will respond within 24 hours, except in case of an emergency. I look forward to an amazing school year!

Sara Schaefer

sschaefer@m289.org

Email: sschaefer@m289.org

Phone: 815-539-6237 Ext 1160