Family, Infant & Toddler Program Staff
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Chittenden County Family, Infant & Toddler Program

Marie Fetterhoff
Program Director,
FITP click to send her mail

Rachel Boyers 
Assistant Director, FITP click to send her mail

 Theresa Soares 
Family Infant and Toddler Family Resource Coordinator click to send her mail

  Ernestine Abel
Family Infant and Toddler Family Resource Coordinator click to send her mail

Mark Kennedy
  Family Infant and Toddler Family Resource Coordinator click to send him email

Julia Rood
Family Infant and Toddler Family Resource Coordinator click to send her mail

Mary Beth Bowman
Family Infant and Toddler Family Resource Coordinator click to send her mail

Liz Jordan-Shook
Developmental Educator click to send her mail
 
Michelle Lewis 
Family Infant and Toddler 
Developmental Educator click to send her mail

Michelle Perry 
Family Infant and Toddler 
Developmental Educator click to send her mail

Kelly Morrison-Arbor 
Developmental Educator click to send her mail

Bonnie Norton 
Developmental Educator click to send her mail

Michael Miller 
Developmental Educator click to send him email

Shelly Waterman
Developmental Educator click to send her email

Nicole Morse
Developmental Educator click to send her email

Victoria Rosen 
Developmental Educator Assistant click to send her mail

Tara Iserman 
Developmental Educator Assistant click to send her mail

Sarah Wallace-Brodeur 
Billing Clerk, FITP click to send her mail

Gretchen Platt 
Autism and Behavioral Specialist, FITP click to send her mail

Carol Egan click to send her mail
Autism Programming Specialist

Peg Manrique,
Administrative Assistant, FITP

Marie Fetterhoff, Family Infant & Toddler Program Director x255

 Rachel BoyersRachel Boyers, Family Infant & Toddler Assistant Director, x235
   Rachel is the mother of two wonderful girls and has recently adopted a joyful baby boy from Korea.  Rachel has experienced first hand the important work of Parent to Parent and FITP.  Her third child, Ethan suffered from an undiagnosed seizure disorder and numerous other medical issues.  After showing incredible strength, Ethan passed away on May 24, 2005 at the age of 2½ years.  Having been on the receiving end of services from Parent to Parent, she realizes how important its mission is.  The Family, Infant and Toddler Program ensured that Ethan’s early intervention services were implemented and its family centered approach was a comfort to her family.  Rachel feels fortunate to be able to give back to an organization that gave her and her family so much support when they needed it the most.
   Rachel began her professional life as a ballet dancer and performed regularly with regional dance, opera and theater companies.  After making a career change, she received her BS in Landscape Architecture from Cornell University.  She and her husband Richard spent a year traveling together where they enjoyed six months living in Kyoto, Japan teaching English and studying garden design and another half of a year interning in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with the landscape architect, Roberto Burle Marx.  Rachel then returned to school and she received her Master in Landscape Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania.  She worked for 10 years in the field before having to leave in order to care for Ethan.
   Rachel and her husband Richard have designed and are in the process of developing a “sensory therapy garden” in Ethan’s memory with the hope that it will benefit children with special needs.  She is pursuing the study of horticultural therapy and plans to incorporate these techniques into the visitor’s experience of the garden.  She is pleased to be finding a rewarding way to combine her love of gardening and the natural world with her experience of being a mother to a child with special needs.
   Rachel attributes her desire to work with Parent to Parent and FITP to her son Ethan.  Even though Ethan’s life was too brief, his sweet soul touched many lives as he built a community of loving, caring people around him.  Ethan’s headstone is inscribed with the words:  

Those who live no more,
echo still within our thoughts, words and deeds.
What they were is woven into what we have become.

Read a story about her family.

 
 Theresa Email Theresa    Ernestine Email Ernestine     Mark Email Mark   Mary Beth Email Mary Beth  Julia Email Julia
Family Resource Coordinators
Parent to Parent is the host agency for Chittenden County Family, Infant, & Toddler Program 

TheresaTheresa Soares: Family Resource Coordinator, x241
I am a native Vermonter. I grew up in the small town of Manchester. After receiving my Bachelor's Degree, I spent the next ten years working in retail management in New York state, California and, most recently, in Burlington. When my twin boys were born prematurely in 2001 I had no idea about the challenges that were ahead for me and my family. After a lengthy NICU stay we were referred to the Family, Infant and Toddler program to monitor the development of one of my sons. He was later diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. It was at this point that I was introduced to what I refer to as

"an amazing subculture" full of people who understand and care about the health and well being of young children and their families. When I joined Parent to Parent and FITP I knew that I wanted to be included among these special people who help families in so many ways. I look forward to being able to make a difference in the lives of other families who may be faced with similar circumstances. I can't think of a more rewarding way to be able to give back from my own experience.

Ernestine Grey Abel: Family Resource Coordinator, x210
    ErnestineFor the past five years or so, my family has had the privilege of getting to know the community of families with children with special needs and providers who serve them.  My first visit to Parent to Parent was the place I finally cried about my daughter’s diagnosis.  Soon I realized that there was so much I could do, using the resources and support of the caring staff here, to improve her prospects.  Now, with those 5 years of experience, and the bright outlook for my daughter -- achieved by intensive early intervention and continuing supports -- I am working here.    
As a family resource coordinator for Family, Infant and Toddler, I support families with information and services that they need to help their child thrive.  I find my background in law and elementary education to be helpful in my role.  Just as I found great comfort in being linked with a supporting parent at the loneliest time imaginable, I hope I can help other parents feel the help of this network of caring individuals and resources. 
    With two young elementary age children, our home-life revolves around the family, with all games played with balls taking an amazing amount of our time and energy. We are trying to make music a focal point in our home, to balance against all those sports. For relaxation I love to cook and sew, and I read whenever I can. Because of my husband’s former life in Ireland, there is exciting trans-Atlantic visiting, in both directions. I feel very lucky to work with the dedicated staff at Parent to Parent, in a position where I can return a few of the many kindnesses that have been done for our family.

Mark Kennedy: Family Resource Coordinator, x227
MarkI am delighted to be able to use my professional skills and experiences as a pastor, planner and teacher supporting families and their children.  As a father with children who have particular emotional and social challenges, I am keenly aware how critical family-centered support is for children to thrive.  When not working with Parent to Parent, I enjoy being with my family and friends, walking, bicycling, canoeing, hiking, folk dancing, singing, volunteering in my church, town, and children’s schools, and telling and reading stories. 





Mary Beth Bowman: Family Resource Coordinator, x229
Mary BethI hail from a farm in Eyota, Minnesota (near Rochester) where I essentially grew up knowing only relatives. Because of an irresistible urge of “I have to get out of this place”, I traveled and lived in many awful apartments. I received my degree in music at the University of Minnesota after many fits and starts. It only took me 14 years to finish a Master in Music at Boston University. In 1990, my husband and I and our two little kids left Boston for the Burlington area. I taught music for 25 years in all types of schools, owned a hat business, and was a family consultant for VPIC. Now I’m a Family Resource Coordinator for FITP.
    It was in Burlington that our son was diagnosed with early bi-polar disorder at the age of 4. Our family was clearly on a long ride. Next slide, we now have 2 children in their 20’s, both having their normal age-appropriate angst and questions and we still worry. Next slide. We are the foster parents to a sweet 16-year-old young man who plays football. Previously, we only attended music concerts and theater productions. “Bravo” just doesn’t work on the sidelines of the playing field!
    Next slide, could it be back to Eyota?

Julia Rood: Family Resource Coordinator, x257
Julia


Liz, Michelle Lewis , Michelle Perry email Michelle P., Kelly email Ann, Bonnie Email Bonnie, Mike Email Michael  Shelly Email Shelly
& Nicole  
Developmental Educators
Chittenden County Family, Infant & Toddler Program

LizLiz Jordan-Shook, Developmental Educator, x224 email Liz
    I am the mother of three boys, Jeremiah, Sam and Joe. We, my husband John included, Sam and Joe live in Williston. I came to know Parent to Parent when one of our twins, Joseph, was born with a complex cardiac disease. Through the years of medical and educational challenges the Parent to Parent staff and "community" have been incredibly supportive.
    In 1998 I joined Parent to Parent as a member of the Family Infant and Toddler Program. Working at Parent to Parent has been an opportunity to give back to a wonderful organization.
    In my spare time I enjoy  reading, traveling and gardening.

Michelle Lewis: Developmental Educator, x231
Michelle LewisBorn and raised in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, I am the eldest of four daughters and from a very close-knit community. My mother joyfully ran a child-care center in our home and from an early age I was in awe of how remarkable young children are. I moved to Burlington to study Early Childhood Development and Psychology at the University of Vermont. Upon graduation, I was hired as an infant and toddler teacher and mentor to undergraduate students.  
      Among many other wonderful learning experiences, I was blessed to be able to join a study tour of the schools of Reggio-Emilia, Italy in 1999. I was inspired by the true sense of collaboration between policy-makers, families, educators and community members.
      Having joined the staff of Parent to Parent, I feel privileged to work with such a competent and passionate group. Each day offers me the opportunity to collaborate with families and professionals from a variety of fields to provide the best services possible for the children in our community. I continuously marvel at the families that I meet, as they share their personal stories and we embark upon journeys together. It is a thrill to be a part of the Family, Infant and Toddler Program.

Michelle PerryMichelle Perry: Developmental Educator, x232
Hi! My name is Michelle Perry.  I am a Developmental Educator working for the Family, Infant and Toddler program. I am the teacher person on the Colchester/Milton Collaborative team.  I work with children and families at their home or in their childcare program.  I have a Master’s Degree in Essential Early Education from the University of Vermont. For 30 years, I have been working in Vermont with children, birth to 5, with developmental delays and their families.  I live in Colchester with my husband. We have 5 grown children and 11 grandchildren.



Kelly Morrison: Developmental Educator, x221
Kelly    I was born in New York, the oldest of four girls, but spent most of my childhood growing up in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. I began my incredible journey of learning about children and families as a student at the University of Vermont. Throughout my studies, I worked as a childcare assistant in the infant and toddler rooms at the Campus Children’s Center. It was there that I recognized my passion for working with children and families.
    During the spring of 2002, I was honored to participate in an international study group of the Infant-Toddler Centers and Preschools of the Municipality of Reggio Emilia, Italy. Later that year, I volunteered in an early childhood school in the Volta Region of Ghana, West Africa as part of an international program called Cross Cultural Solutions. 
    In May of 2003, I received my Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Early Childhood Education and Development. After receiving my degree, I worked as a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) to an astounding young infant/toddler and his family and as a preschool teacher to 3, 4 & 5 year old children at the Burlington Children’s Space. In the summer of 2007 I completed the Vermont Higher Education Collaborative Program, an Early Childhood Special Educator licensure program. I received my second endorsement on my educator’s license in the field of Early Childhood Special Education in September of 2007. Currently, I am working towards completing my Masters Degree in Early Childhood Special Education at the University of Vermont.
    I am an avid horseback rider, caring for and riding a horse at a local horse farm several times a week. My other hobbies include reading, swimming, knitting and crocheting, long walks / hikes, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, cooking, and the company of great friends.
    I love all of the learning that comes from working with children and their families, as they are the true teachers. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the Family, Infant and Toddler Program and I want to thank you for allowing me to share in your life and that of your child’s.

Bonnie Norton: Developmental Educator, x204
Bonnie   
I am a fourth generation Vermonter, who grew up in Burlington.  My family consisted of my parents, my identical twin sister, a brother and a baby sister.  Since the birth of my little sister when I was nine years old, I have known that I wanted to work with and teach young children.
    In 1988, I obtained an associates degree in Early Childhood Education from Champlain College.  I then went to Trinity College of Vermont to work on a degree in elementary special education.  Circumstances made this dream undoable at that time and I left school to teach infants at the St. Michael’s College Child Care Center.  It was here that I spent the next 17 years, caring for and teaching infants and toddlers.
During these years, I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Human Development from St. Mike’s, I met and married Joel Norton, a special educator at Essex High School, and in May of 2000 gave birth to our son, Nicholas.
    In 2003, I worked a second job as a PCA for a little boy with medical complications.  It was through this work that I decided I wanted to fulfill my original dream of working with children with special needs.  The very next semester I enrolled in the Master’s Degree program at Saint Michael’s College for special education.  I have been working diligently on this degree, and have nearly successfully completed this.
    I am very excited about this new opportunity to work for FITP and the many families that we serve.

Michael Miller: Developmental Educator, x233
Michael
After completing a Masters Degree in Special Education from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia and retirement from the U.S. Navy I moved to Libby, Montana.  I worked in the school system until January 2000 when I began work as a Family Support Specialist with the Child Development Center.  For seven and a half years I worked with children and young adults with developmental disabilities.  In August 2007 my wife, Ann, and I moved to Vermont from Kalispell, Montana, a fast growing community in the northwest corner of the state near Glacier National Park.  Ann and I enjoy cooking, camping, gardening, and each other’s company.  I look forward to serving the members of our diverse community and working with the many professionals on our collaborative teams.

Shelly Waterman: Developmental Educator, x238
Shelly
   I am a life long Vermonter who grew up in Burlington. I graduated from College in 1994 and took my first job as an educator of young children that fall. I spent 10 years teaching preschool age children until I gave birth to my first of two beautiful daughters, Hannah, in February 2004. My husband and I embraced parenthood much like most first time parents, with hope, love, dedication, and lack of sleep. My new full time job was to stay at home with Hannah and be every bit the mother I had always dreamed! To be there when she reached all her developmental milestones and celebrates these accomplishments with her. It wasn’t until she was 18 months old when our patient optimism turned into fear. Over night my girl changed. Something unknown to us was taking hold of her and we couldn’t break its grip. She stopped making eye contact with us and was not speaking anymore. After numerous doctors visits, blood draws and hospital stays, Hannah was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome May 5, 2004. Rett Syndrome is a genetic neurological disorder that occurs almost exclusively in girls. The disorder becomes apparent after 6-18 months of early typical development. It results in a regression that leads to lifelong disabilities including loss of speech, purposeful hand use, and mobility. It is most often misdiagnosed as autism or cerebral palsy.
   The grief was unbearable, and the loss we felt was devastating. Our pediatricians quickly connected us to FITP. If it was not for their love, caring and support they showed my family, I believe Hannah’s outcome might have been very different. The team showed us how to navigate through a system that, at the time, was confusing and scary. The team also connected us with providers in the community who could help support Hannah and her needs. Today, Hannah is a very happy girl. She has family, including a little sister, friends who adore her, and a community of educators and caregivers who support us all on this journey we are on together!

Nikki Morse: Developmental Educator, x252
NikkiOriginally from Keene, New Hampshire I moved to Vermont in 2001 to attend The University of Vermont. While there I studied Early Childhood Education and Psychology. Upon graduating with my bachelors in 2005, I became a teacher in a local early childhood program working with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Working collaboratively with FITP and EEE in my classroom encouraged me to learn more about the services available for young children with special needs. In 2008 I enrolled in the University of Vermont’s Early Childhood Special Education Master’s program. I hope to graduate with my masters by next December. I have enjoyed learning about the special education field and am excited to be joining the team at FITP.
   I recently moved to Winooski, where we are currently working on renovating a house. I enjoy reading, spending time with friends, and taking trips to Myrtle Beach to visit my family.

Victoria Rosen: Developmental Educator Assistant, x242
Victoria   I moved from Ohio to New York City in my 20s and worked in arts and community program development.  Thirteen years ago, when my children were 7 and 12, my husband and I moved our family to Vermont. I could not have imagined the richness and depth, as well as fun with dogs, horses, and nature, this move would bring to all of us.
   I have an M. Ed. in Counseling and extensive training in somatic bodywork, which teaches people how to slow down and track internal sensations. My observation skills and quality of focused attention have led me to working with children with developmental delays. Recently I have been working and playing in the VNA Family Room as part of a diverse, inspiring community, watching children help each other learn and grow.

Tara Iserman: Developmental Educator Assistant, x240
Tara's photo   I was born in a very small town in Northern New Hampshire, where I lived until attending Champlain College in 2003. I graduated in 2007 with an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. I have spent most of my life working with young children and really enjoy their energy. It was during my college years that I began working for a local agency that not only focused on children but also their families. It was there that I really gained a lot of knowledge and compassion for the support services available for children and their families. After working in the agency for over 3 years, my work began having less and less to do with actually working with children, and that is what prompted my move into another avenue of the field. Finding an agency like Parent to Parent, that is so dedicated to the collaboration and support of children and families seems like the perfect fit for me. I look forward to working with this agency and the families it serves.
   I currently live with my boyfriend in Essex where we recently purchased a house, which we spend a lot of time renovating. I also enjoy reading, entertaining, going to the gym, spending time with friends and family and any activity involving the outdoors (hiking, biking, kayaking, snowboarding, and walking my dog Togo).


Sarah Wallace-Brodeur Billing Clerk, x237

SarahI grew up in Montpelier, the youngest of four children. After receiving my Bachelor of Arts degree at UVM, I married my 8th grade sweetheart and moved to Essex Junction. We have three wonderful children, a dog, cat, and frog. In our free time we enjoy all that Vermont has to offer through hikes, swims, biking, walks in the woods, sledding, and annual camping trips. On top of working for the Family, Infant & Toddler Program, I also work for Beginnings as a childbirth educator and sibling preparation instructor. I feel fortunate to be apart of such an amazing network of people working to provide services and support to families of children with special needs.


Gretchen Platt, M.Ed., Autism and Behavioral Specialist, x212
Gretchen   Over the past 10 years, I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with toddlers and young children with special needs and their families. My focus and passion is helping children with autism spectrum disorders and behavioral challenges. I received my master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Washington and taught at the University of WA’s Experimental Education Unit, a school specializing in children age birth-K with a variety of special needs. I taught an integrated kindergarten class for children with a variety of learning styles and an emphasis on children with autism and behavioral challenges as well as typically developing children. I have also worked as a private behavioral therapist for pre-schoolers on the autism spectrum. Upon moving back to the east coast I worked as the family coordinator on a large-scale research project for toddlers diagnosed with autism at Boston University. As the family coordinator I traveled throughout Massachusetts interviewing over 100 families whose toddlers had been diagnosed on the autism spectrum. 
   I live in Burlington and after having moved around a bit, I have finally found my life long home in Vermont. I enjoy spending time with friends, skiing, hiking, running and camping.  Formerly Gretchen Shuman, my new name is now Platt.

Carol Egan, Autism Programming Specialist, x249
Carol

Peg Manrique, Administrative Assistant, FITP, x247
Peg

(end of Family Infant and Toddler Program staff listing)