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 personalized in home resources and strategies available for those with special needs and their families. 

​ 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. 

Consistency is key to success in life for anyone, but especially for those with disabilities. When visuals, schedules, social stories, and other supports are available not only in the school setting but at home, an individual is able to foster more independence, growth, and success. Along with consistent in home supports, outside school supports such as social skills groups or executive functioning classes can make a huge impact on an individual's life.

So whether you would like to see your child independently brush their teeth and get ready in the morning, stop acting out negatively, gain social skills or need support with the IEP process -  SAGE is here to help! 

​Awards and Honors

In May 2022, Emily was honored as a NYS Woman of Distinction by Assemblywomen Jen Lunsford for her work with individuals with disabilities.

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