CCSD 89 Student Services / Special Education Department

The role of the Student Services Department is to empower all students to recognize and optimize their true potential by providing specialized instruction and support for students to have increased access and success in the CCSD 89 curriculum. The Student Services Department provides comprehensive programs and services to promote the academic functioning and well-being of all students while honoring their multiple and diverse identities. Student services professionals work in partnership with other educators, families, and community organizations to support the academic and social-emotional needs of all students with the goal of helping them prepare for their time after CCSD 89. 

The primary functions of the Student Services Department include:

• ADA Section 504 Plans 
• Developmental screenings
• Home and hospital services 
• Mental-health services (social workers, psychologists, and counselors)
• McKinney-Vento/homeless liaison and support 
• Special education
• Special-education records
• Truancy

The Student Services Department is led by Katie Kreller.

From a young age, Katie Kreller knew she wanted to work in education. As a teenager, she babysat and worked as a camp counselor - always looking for ways to support and mentor children. At the same time, Kreller watched a family member who was diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder struggle in school. Learning about his challenges and triumphs left a deep impression on Kreller and would eventually set her on a path toward becoming a special education administrator.

Kreller started her career as a third-grade teacher and then a middle school special education teacher in District 99 in Cicero. After serving as an assistant principal in Rockford, she was named the Director of Special Education for Rockford Public Schools.

In 2021, Kreller was selected as the Director of Student Services for CCSD 89. In her current role, she believes strongly in partnering with families to ensure that every single student is supported and ready to contribute to the community in their own unique way.

Outside of work, Kreller loves to spend time traveling with her husband and visiting her nieces and nephews.