Lisa Meincke
I am a special educator who has worked with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Physical Disabilities, Behavior Disorders and Anxiety. I have also helped students with other syndromes and disabilities including Williams Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy and Specific Learning Disabilities.
I was employed by School District 15 in Palatine for over 30 years in several different positions: a special education teacher, a regular education classroom teacher, a classroom coach, a mentor to new teachers, an inclusion facilitator, a behavior specialist, a presenter and a consultant to special education teams. I also taught college courses at William Rainey Harper College and Oakton Community College.
My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Special Education from National Louis University, several teaching certificates and endorsements and a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.
My passion is helping students succeed within the regular classroom in their own home schools whenever possible. Achieving this goal almost always involves problem solving with parents, school teams, caregivers and/or program assistants.
My Beliefs
- I believe that we should focus on a student’s strengths and on what he or she can do rather than on their deficits.
- I believe that all students can learn and that for many, their behavior is the way that they communicate what they need.
- I believe that problem solving, thinking out of the box, collaboration and a desire to meet the needs of all learners are the most important skills a teacher can possess.
- I believe that teachers and special education teams should try everything they can before deciding that a student needs to move to a more restrictive placement.
- I believe that including students in their home schools benefits everyone when it is done with a positive attitude and the right supports.
About abc Special Education Support
The idea behind abc Special Education Support evolved as my career in District 15 came to a close. Even though I officially “retired” from teaching, my passion to serve students and families remains strong and a vital part of who I am. I want to continue to share my expertise with children, families and educators. With commitment, caring and consistency, we can work together to help your child at home and/or at school.
Please go to the Services Page for a full listing of ways I might be of assistance.