IEP and Me
The Panel
The panel will consist of Ana Kohout, Dr. Randi Kalish, Jennifer Starzec, and Areta Verschoor.
Ana Kohout is a current elementary special education teacher in the School District of Beloit. As a wheelchair-user, Ana grew up with an IEP, giving her an insider perspective that she carries into her current work with children and parents. This experience fueled her desires to help others and she received her Masters in special education in 2022 from UW-Madison.
Dr. Randi Kalish is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist licensed in the state of Illinois, currently working with school-aged children and their families within Glenview School District 34. Dr. Kalish’s experience includes supporting children preschool through emerging adulthood and their families with issues related to specific learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, seizures, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and anxiety.
Jennifer Starzec is currently a Speech Pathologist at an elementary school in the Waukegan School District. As a wheelchair-user, Jennifer grew up with an IEP, giving her an insider perspective that she carries into her current work with children and parents. This experience fueled her desires to help others and she received her Masters in Speech Pathology in 2023 from the University of Illinois.
Areta Verschoor is a mother who has dedicated her life to advocating for her children, especially Ana, who grew up going to school in District 67 and 115. She is currently an active member of the community through being a Yoga Instructor at the Gorton Center.
Gorton Center is a premier destination for outstanding cultural and performing arts experiences serving the residents of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and the surrounding region. As a proud nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are dedicated to enriching our community through an array of exceptional events and programs.
At Gorton Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. Our vibrant calendar is brimming with diverse offerings, ensuring there's always something to captivate and inspire you. From live music performances that resonate with your soul to comedy nights that leave you in stitches, we curate events to suit all tastes and interests. Our dedication to quality and community engagement means you can expect only the best in cultural entertainment.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s always something extraordinary waiting for you. Come be a part of our community, where every event is an opportunity to connect, enjoy, and be inspired.
Gorton Center will take and may use photos and videos from this event for its promotional purposes. Your attendance indicates your consent to the above.
Refunds will only be given up to one week prior to the first week of class of any session. (The refund period for some classes, which require advanced reservations or purchase of materials, may be more limited.) Cancellations will incur a $5 handling fee for programs costing under $100 and a 10% handling fee for programs with fees of $100 or more. If a class is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, you will be notified, and a full refund will be given.
If this class does not meet the minimum participation requirement, you will be notified of the cancellation within one week of the start date.
