Rockwood Early Childhood Special Education Staff Builds Meaningful, Lasting Connections with Students and Families

October is Disability History and Awareness Month nationally, a time during which the Rockwood School District encourages our schools to provide instruction on disability history, people with disabilities and the disability rights movement. There are approximately 130,000 students with disabilities educated by Missouri public schools, and we value the importance of our schools recognizing the contributions by people with disabilities to our society through school curriculum, assemblies and other school activities.

The Rockwood Early Childhood special education program provides services to more than 300 students in our community.

The program's caring educators and professionals partner with families to do whatever is needed to set students up for success when they reach kindergarten. 

Service providers include:

• Speech/Language Pathologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physical Therapists
• Nurses
• School Psychological Examiners
• Educational Diagnosticians
• Social Workers
• Vision Specialists
• Behavior Specialists
• Assistive Technology Facilitators
• Process Coordinators

Hear from some of our caring Rockwood Early Childhood staff members about why they love what they do:

Lynne Hawkinson, speech-language pathologist

"My favorite part of being a Speech Pathologist is helping students learn to communicate with their family/peers.

"I enjoy seeing students with autism spectrum disorder make a connection with others.

"I hope that our students gain speech/language skills that help them become independent, social communicators."

Kathy Larocco, special education teacher

"My favorite part of being an early childhood special education teacher is witnessing those small but incredibly meaningful moments of growth. Every child learns in their own way and at their own pace, and being part of the process—whether it’s a first word, a new social interaction or mastering a new motor skill—is truly rewarding. I also love building strong relationships with families and helping them celebrate their child’s progress. It’s such a privilege to be part of a team that supports children in developing confidence and independence from such an early age.

"What I enjoy most about working with my students is getting to know each child’s unique personality, strengths and way of learning. Every day brings something new — a small success, a new connection or a moment of joy that reminds me why I love this work. I love creating that connection and seeing them light up when they accomplish something they have been working hard on! 

"I hope that my students gain a sense of confidence, belonging and joy in learning during their time with me. My goal is to help them develop not only important academic and social skills but also the belief that they are capable and valued just as they are. I want each child to leave my classroom feeling understood, supported and proud of the progress they’ve made — no matter how big or small. Ultimately, I hope they carry that sense of confidence and curiosity with them as they continue to grow and learn." 

Kristi Posinski, physical therapist

"Being able to see a child do something for the first time or gain a skill they have worked so hard for is my favorite part of my job. Whether it's being able to sit independently, take their first steps or ride a tricycle with their classmates on the playground, it’s extremely rewarding. I love being able to make a positive difference in their lives and the lives of their families.

"I enjoy seeing their excitement to learn and try new things, as well as their true happiness when they accomplish something. 

"I hope they gain new skills, confidence and the building blocks from which to grow and thrive in school as they move forward. I love this age group in particular because of their natural curiosity, joy and their love of people for who they are without any sort of judgment. I am fortunate to love what I do and truly enjoy doing it every day!"