Celebrating Our Related Service Providers

We tend to associate student growth with the hard work of their teachers, and rightly so. But there are lots of additional staff working behind the scenes to make sure that CPS kids have the supports they need to reach their full potential. Some of these are our District’s Physical Therapists (PTs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs).

Below we highlight just a few of these professionals and the impact they are having on CPS students.

Veronica Lewandowski 

A new Speech-Language Pathologist at Blair Early Childhood Center and South Side Occupational High School, Veronica has done great work this school year, embracing Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) as a tool to increase communication for her students. She is an excellent advocate in her students’ IEP meetings and is respected by her colleagues.

Paula Krapf

A dedicated and deeply knowledgeable Occupational Therapist, Paula serves students from Pre-K to high school, bringing passion, heart, and expertise to all aspects of her work. Whether working one-on-one to improve fine motor skills, collaborating with teachers to adapt classroom environments, or developing individualized strategies to promote independence, Paula is always driven by a commitment to student growth and well-being. Colleagues frequently describe Paula as a trusted resource, and as someone who is always willing to share insights, offer guidance, and collaborate on solutions. She brings a calm, positive presence to every interaction, and has a unique ability to connect with students in ways that foster confidence and success.

Katie Hernandez

Considered a one-of-a-kind Physical Therapist by her colleagues, Katie goes above and beyond to ensure that her students are receiving the best level of service to help them learn critical life skills. She strives to find innovative and exciting ways to help her students learn to walk, balance, navigate steps, build up core strength, and manage mobility devices. In meetings with colleagues and families, Katie is an expert at providing the essential guidance and suggestions about how to improve students’ strength and mobility. And she does it all with a smile, a kind word, and a laugh that can be heard citywide. 

Jasmin Valdovinos 

Another new SLP, Jasmine has an excellent attitude, and has been of great assistance as more bilingual students have arrived in CPS schools. Shehas been applauded for her hard work, and for her ability to maintain an upbeat outlook, even in challenging situations.  

Amy Hart 

Amy is regarded as an SLP who has excellent information literacy skills, as well as an inquisitive professional who can be counted upon for her resourcefulness. This school year, as a way of supporting future SLPs, she volunteered to host a student intern ride-along tour to help graduate school clinicians learn more about our District’s schools.

Alison Clifford

Alison is an OT at three of CPS’ early childhood campuses. She has a collaborative and joyful spirit, which strengthens school communities and fosters a shared sense of purpose in supporting Chicago’s youngest learners. Alison cultivates authentic connections with her students and their families, and works collaboratively with her colleagues to determine the best program to support each child’s development. Alison always has the best interest of her students in mind, and that is demonstrated in the growth of those students who are fortunate enough to have her as their Occupational Therapist. 

Jennifer Karan

Jennifer’s work as a Physical Therapist spans both the Citywide Assessment Team and numerous CPS schools. Her role may take her from early childhood to high school, but her focus on helping students navigate their school settings with confidence and independence never waivers. More than just a physical therapist, Jennifer is a vital member of every educational team she joins, working collaboratively to create personalized, practical strategies that support each student’s individual needs. Jennifer’s work is rooted in a powerful belief in rightful presence—that every student has a place in their school community and deserves the support necessary to participate fully with dignity and autonomy. Therefore, she helps create environments where students are not only physically included, but truly engaged, respected, and empowered in their learning.

Mary Lake 

Mary is an SLP who recently completed her 4th Donors Choose project, raising hundreds of dollars to provide educational toys for students at Wilma Rudolph Learning Center. 

Kaila Koch

A dedicated SLP at Barbara Vick Village Early Childhood and Family Center, Kaila brings her expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to supporting our youngest learners.She creates a warm and welcoming environment where students feel safe and empowered to express their thoughts, wants, needs, and feelings. Her approach not only strengthens language skills, but also builds confidence, encourages social connection, and nurtures a love of learning.