In 2023, Karie became the Waupun Area School District (WASD) Special Education Family Liaison, a position coordinated by the Wisconsin Statewide Parent-Educator Initiative (WSPEI) grant. This role is responsible for confidentially promoting collaborative relationships between families and the schools.   Each year, Karie is required to attend trainings and work under the direction of the WASD's Director of Special Education.

Most importantly, she is available to parents and family members of Special Needs students as a support resource to help with questions about the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process, finding school or community resources, and listening to concerns. Karie is also a parent of a child receiving special education services here in the district!

To ensure this role and the WASD Special Education program will be successful, she needs your help!

• Contact her if you would ever need support.

• Fill out any surveys related to your student's education; this is the only way we know what areas need improvement or what we are doing well. Your input is important and valued!

• Get connected with others in the area by joining the private, virtual Facebook Support Group "Special Needs Family Forum- Waupun."  Since this is a private group, you can join by sending [[[Karie]]] or TL Rhodes a 'friend request' on Facebook, asking to join this group page. This group is a great place to network, ask questions, get event information, or just read posts.

ABC for Health, Inc. - Wisconsin-based, nonprofit public interest law firm dedicated to ensuring health care access for children and families, particularly those with special needs or who are at risk.

Regional Centers for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) - Wisconsin has five Regional Centers dedicated to supporting families with children and youth with special health care needs and the providers who serve them. The Centers are staffed by specialists who can help get answers, find services, and connect you to community resources. Their services are free and private.

WI FACETS - Their mission is to provide and broaden opportunities that enhance the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities and their families, with emphasis on support for underserved families in the community.

Wisconsin Family Ties – A Statewide not-for-profit organization run by families for family that include children and adolescents who have emotional, behavioral and mental disorders.

Wisconsin First Step Website - An information and referral service to assist Wisconsin families and providers working with children and youth with special needs

Wisconsin Special Education Mediation System (WSEMS) - WSEMS is a grant-funded system that provides trained neutrals to parents and school districts for Mediation, IEP Facilitation and Resolution Process services. WSEMS services are free, private and confidential.

Wisconsin Statewide Medical Home Initiative - Promotes the concepts of medical home to primary care clinicians, families, and service providers throughout Wisconsin. Training, technical assistance and resources are provided to support medical home implementation.