The team supports the Middle Gate Community by providing appropriate services to help students to the best of their ability on their path to academic, social, and emotional growth.
The Occupational Therapist provides a variety of therapeutic activities to develop, improve, or restore fine motor functions and to help the student perform school-related tasks independently. The Occupational Therapist may also serve as a consultant with staff providing recommendations on ways to modify tasks for improved functioning in the classroom.
Physical Therapist
Kristen Espitee 203-426-7662 (Main Office)
The Physical Therapist provides evaluations and treatment for students who demonstrate gross motor skills significantly below their age level. Gross motor skills include walking, jumping, skipping, hopping, galloping, balance and strength. The Physical Therapist also works closely with classroom teachers and physical education teachers in identifying and providing modifications, as needed, for children in their classrooms, recess and physical education.
The school psychologist has specialized training in both psychology and education. The School Psychologist uses his/her training to team with educators, parents, and other mental health professionals to ensure that every child learns in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment. The School Psychologist understands school systems, effective teaching, and successful learning. Moreover, The School Psychologist acts as a consultant to teachers and to parents, performs diagnostic evaluations, and offers direct counseling services to individuals and groups.
The Special Education Teacher and Resource Room staff provide academic, social and behavioral supports to students with Individualized Education Plans. Additionally, the Special Education teacher consults with classroom teachers and parents to develop strategies to better support students and to modify curriculum in alignment with the student's IEP. When needed, the Special Education Teacher conducts standardized achievement testing as part of the evaluation process.
Carla Larracuente 203-426-7662 (Main Office)
The Speech-Language Pathologist provides evaluations and treatment of students with speech, language, hearing and voice disorders. The Speech-Language Pathologist plans, implements and collaborates with classroom teachers to exchange information regarding the language demands of the classroom. The Speech-Language Pathologist consults with parents to answer questions and provides information regarding speech and language concerns.