About
Hi! My name is Emily Carpenter, and I am the founder of SAGE Rochester. SAGE, which stands for support, advocate, grow, educate, is a concept I developed after seeing firsthand the lack of resources and programs for individuals in the community.
I recently resigned as an elementary 12-1-1 special education teacher in a suburb outside of Rochester, NY. I began my studies at SUNY Fredonia, and finished with my Master's at the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester. I am certified in special education, general education, as well as English to Speakers of other Languages (ESOL).
I have always had a passion for working with children with special needs. I have experience with students with a variety of diagnoses throughout my years including Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD/ADD, Emotional Trauma, and more.
I believe that all individuals, no matter their ability, should have a safe place to learn skills, make friends, and have fun. That is the goal of SAGE!
I recently resigned as an elementary 12-1-1 special education teacher in a suburb outside of Rochester, NY. I began my studies at SUNY Fredonia, and finished with my Master's at the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester. I am certified in special education, general education, as well as English to Speakers of other Languages (ESOL).
I have always had a passion for working with children with special needs. I have experience with students with a variety of diagnoses throughout my years including Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD/ADD, Emotional Trauma, and more.
I believe that all individuals, no matter their ability, should have a safe place to learn skills, make friends, and have fun. That is the goal of SAGE!
Assistant Program Director: Alissa Monette
Alissa Monette grew up in Rochester, NY where she developed a passion for supporting individuals of all abilities and advocating for well-being while working as a classroom and one-to-one aide.In 2015, she relocated to Pittsburgh, PA to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, continuing her work with diverse communities. Alissa’s undergraduate experience includes peer mentorship with "Best Buddies International" and providing counseling/wellness coaching at "The Woodlands Foundation", a camp for individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
Additionally, she completed a Health Activist Fellowship, core humanitarian certification training with the AmeriCorps and recently earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from Duquesne University.
Alissa enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, visiting local coffee shops, listening to music and connecting with friends and family.
Alissa Monette grew up in Rochester, NY where she developed a passion for supporting individuals of all abilities and advocating for well-being while working as a classroom and one-to-one aide.In 2015, she relocated to Pittsburgh, PA to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, continuing her work with diverse communities. Alissa’s undergraduate experience includes peer mentorship with "Best Buddies International" and providing counseling/wellness coaching at "The Woodlands Foundation", a camp for individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
Additionally, she completed a Health Activist Fellowship, core humanitarian certification training with the AmeriCorps and recently earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from Duquesne University.
Alissa enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, visiting local coffee shops, listening to music and connecting with friends and family.