Board appoints new spec. ed. co-ordinator

The Rainy River District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Knutsen to the position of Special Education program co-ordinator (K-12), effective in September.
The co-ordinator assesses the needs of children, and supports the district instructional program for students in their educational goals.
Knutsen holds the designation of specialist in special education, and has six years of experience as a classroom teacher and special education resource teacher.
This background has provided him with the skills to work collaboratively with senior administration, principals, teachers, support staff, parents, and stakeholder groups.
With a comprehensive understanding of special education, Knutsen helped educate staff on spec. ed. policies and funding procedures, provided education assistants and teachers with specific training, and has been directly involved in the implementation of assistive technology and differentiated instruction.
He held identification, placement, and review committees, arranged educational assessments and conferences, and oversaw the completion and implementation of individual education programs.
“Special education is continuing to head in such a positive direction in Ontario that I look forward to working collaboratively with the Rainy River District School Board staff, students, and communities to continue to help provide a high level of progressive service in the area of special education,” Knutsen said.
Jane Tibbetts, the current spec. ed. co-ordinator, is retiring on June 30.
The board appreciates her years of dedication to student achievement and wishes her all the best in retirement.