Special Education Team

Arissa Bavari, Special Education Teacher

My name is Arissa Bavari and I am so excited to be your Special Education teacher this year. I was born in Pennsylvania, but grew up in Frederick, Maryland with my parents and six siblings. I'm very fortunate to have grown up in a town that celebrates and enhances diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's a big part of who I am today.

After high school, I moved away from my immediate family to obtain my B.S in Education, Health and Kinesiology from the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO). During my B.S., I gained hands-on experience working with diverse populations teaching them health promotion efforts (e.g., exercise, nutrition, social well-being, etc.). I wanted to continue my education from UNO and obtained my M.S. in Health Promotion. My thesis focused on physical activity and mental health specifically among college students. This is where my love for equity began to grow.

During my last semester of my graduate degree, I obtained a position at Special Olympics Nebraska where I continued to grow my diversity, equity, and inclusive mindset and attitude. As a learner and curious bean myself, I believe that learning should be a transformative experience that focuses on growth, celebrating the small steps, and encompasses mindfulness. Every student that I interact with will have a chance to practice mindfulness from being kind to breathing exercises.

Utah is different than Nebraska so you can find me hiking, skiing, exploring the state, playing pickleball, maybe at a coffee shop or two, hanging out with my boyfriend, fishing, camping, and practicing yoga (I'm certified).

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Amber Knight, Speech Language Pathologist

I am a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who is passionate about helping children achieve their communication goals. I received my bachelor's degree from Utah State University and have a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Idaho State University.

I've worked in a variety of settings, including public schools, private practices, and hospitals. I have experience working with children of all ages with a variety of communication disorders, including speech sound disorders, language disorders, and fluency disorders. I believe that communication is essential for learning, building relationships, and participation in daily activities and I am committed to helping my students reach their full communication potential. I use a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques to help my students improve their speech, language, and fluency skills. I also work with students on their social skills and their ability to participate in classroom activities. I love the focus CCID has on hands-on learning and applying that learning to real life situations.

In my free time, I enjoy running, hiking, climbing, camping, spending time with family, and watching movies.

[email protected]

Jaclyn Lawson, Special Education Teacher

My Name is Jaclyn Lawson, and I am so happy to be at CCID. I have just graduated from good old Utah State University with a dual degree in Special Education and Elementary Education. I am a strong believer in Inclusion and I am always looking for ways to help my students get involved with their peers. I also believe that all children can learn. We just need to find the right tools to give them to help them reach their potential.

I grew up here in Northern Utah. I'm from Tremonton so I spent a lot of time in the valley growing up. I have a pet Husky named Luna who I will take out and about for walks and to get pup cups from sonic.

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Lindsey Pooler, Special Education Teacher

As an Educator, I strive to create an environment where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. I believe the classroom is a place to develop lifelong skills and a love for learning. I seek to provide individualized, fun, and lasting educational experience for every student. I'm excited to be a member of the CCID team.

I grew up in North Carolina where I had daily opportunities to learn through hands-on, practical experience. Throughout my life, I had multiple teachers who inspired and encouraged me to be the best version of myself and it's a philosophy I hope to carry on through my own teaching career.After high school I moved to Logan, UT with my sweet husband and attended Utah State University where I received my Bachelor's of Science in Special Education. Along with my love of teaching I enjoy family time with my husband and little boy, hiking biking, and exploring new places.

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Kent Prewett, Classroom Support

I grew up in Davis County, Utah spending most of my time outside. I started working in Special Education classrooms shortly after graduating from high school. I work with all grades and all students and love helping them be successful at school.

My passions are fishing, listening to music, being outside, talking in ridiculous accents to my dogs, and cheering for the Washington Commanders.

I love being part of the CCID crew and causing mischief!

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Tamra Neilson, Occupational Therapy Support

I was raised in North Carolina and appreciate every opportunity I have to get back to the green and the trees. I enjoy traveling, baking, hiking, and spending time with family & friends. I also like reading, organizing, cheering for the Carolina Hurricanes & Duke Blue Devils and exploring new places. I am happiest when walking on a beach with my husband or supporting my two awesome children in their lives.

I’ve always really liked the quote, “Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story.” I’m grateful for the opportunity to help provide that at CCID.

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