Employee Spotlight - Meet Jessica

Transitioning from a Developmental Specialist to an Early Intervention Supervisor, Jessica has dedicated over fourteen years to her field. Her journey at Portage DD began with student teaching at Happy Day School under the guidance of Ms. Searfoss, progressing to a substitute teacher role, and later advancing to a developmental specialist. In her new role, Jessica is eager to incorporate the community and workplace into the program, while also providing support and advocacy for the staff. Jessica values the county's profound sense of hope and enthusiasm that distinguishes Portage DD. During her leisure time, Jessica cherishes moments with her daughter and husband, engaging in outdoor pursuits like mountain biking and dirt biking.

Early Intervention Services (EI) are offered to children birth through 36 months of age with developmental delays or disabilities. These services are at no cost to you and offered year-round. Our early intervention team members include Ohio Early Intervention Service Coordinators, Developmental Specialists, Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, and Nurse.  Early Intervention is grounded in the philosophy that young children learn best from familiar people in familiar settings. Your team works with you in your home or other places you and your family spend time to develop a coordinated plan called an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). You and your team will work through the IFSP using your existing supports and resources and build upon them to enhance your child’s learning, development, and involvement in your family routines.