Our Team
Karen Helene, Director: Certified Special Education Teacher & Administrator, MS in Special Education; more than 30 years’ experience in the field. Since 2019, has served as president of the Board of Director for the CT Association of Private Special Education Facilities (CAPSEF).
Eric Sylvester, Paraeducator Supervisor: Nearly 10 years of experience in various roles throughout Benhaven Inc. Responsible for hiring paraeducator staff as well as supervision. One of Benhaven School’s Physical/Psychological Management Training (PMT) trainers.
Jennifer Vaughan MS, SYC, Teacher Development Coach/Student Services: Jennie began her career at Benhaven School in 2009 as a paraeducator and after completing two long-term substitute teaching opportunities at the school, she decided to earn her certification and masters in special education eventually earning a place as a classroom teacher at the school in 2012. She remained in the classroom for over 12 years working directly with students, paraeducators and serving as mentor to multiple new teachers. Mentoring teachers quickly became a passion, motivating her return to school to receive her Sixth Year Certificate in Educational Leadership and Administrator certification. She was inspired to move into her administrative role to ensure everyone has equitable growth opportunities in this field, cultivating the same passion she has in Benhaven’s mission. Jennie currently wears a plethora of hats serving actively as a presenter/member of the professional development committee, leader of the student admission team, all while working closely with families and classroom staff as student team leader.
- Seven certified special education teachers for seven classrooms, one is also Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
- Jennie Vaughan, Certified Special Education Teacher and administrator. Serves as mentor/coach for teachers.
- Ellen Miller, Certified Special Education Teacher as our Vocational/Transitional Teacher, also PMT coach
- Dan Kahl, Certified Physical Education & Health Teacher, also PMT trainer
- Four full-time Speech & Language Pathologists: Bobie Bessette, Kaitlin Gensicki, Giovanna Diana & Kaitlyn Markowicz
- Darlene Talavera, Occupational Therapist (OT)
- Dianna Burkle, Certified OT Assistant (COTA)
- Liz Pisa, Certified OT Assistant (COTA)
- Laura DellaCamera, Registered Nurse (RN)
- Forty well-trained, dedicated paraeducators who are supported by the paraeducator supervisor and Rosalyn Cuevas, the training supervisor.
- Greg Spector - School Operations Coordinator
- Ashley Ullrich - Administrative Assistant