SPECIAL EDUCATION
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that makes available to children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
Carlisle Local Schools provides a continuum of special education programs and services. Children ages 3-21, who are identified in the public school system as a child with a disability, are eligible for these services and supported through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Objectives
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All special needs students will be successful to their fullest potential.
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All special needs students will participate in the least restrictive learning environment.
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Teachers, staff, students, and families will take personal responsibility for meeting the individual needs of students to ensure success in academics and social areas throughout their entire school experience.

Emily Hill
Director of Special Education
230 Jamaica Rd.
Carlisle, OH 45005
937-746-0710 ext. 602
Emily.Hill@carlisleindians.org
Ms. Hill holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Xavier University. She began her career as a mental health counselor, serving in that role for two years before discovering her passion for teaching. A lifelong learner, she returned to Xavier to pursue additional coursework and spent 12 years as an Intervention Specialist. Her commitment to students with special needs eventually led her to further her education once again—this time in Special Education Administration and Curriculum & Instruction.
Over the past decade, Ms. Hill has served in administrative roles in both Hamilton City Schools and Springboro Community Schools. Since August 2022, she has proudly served as the Director of Special Education for Carlisle Local Schools, overseeing services for students with disabilities from preschool through age 22.
Now entering her 11th year as a Special Education Administrator and her 24th year in education, Ms. Hill remains inspired by the progress, resilience, and dedication of her students, staff, and school community.
Ms. Hill has two children: Lainey, who is entering her final year at the University of Cincinnati majoring in Psychology, and Gavin, a high school junior with aspirations to study business or accounting—possibly at the University of Tennessee.
Ms. Hill is dedicated to nurturing the Carlisle family by fostering a safe, supportive learning environment where every student can grow, thrive, and succeed. Whether your child is just beginning their educational journey in preschool or preparing for graduation and life beyond high school, her mission is to support staff in helping each student reach their full potential.
She oversees special education programming across the district, including the preschool program. In her role, she ensures students receive high-quality services that promote academic, social, and emotional growth. She serves as an advocate for students, a resource for staff, and a collaborative partner with families.
Mrs. Pence, Special Education and Preschool Secretary, is also available to assist and can help answer your questions or connect you with the appropriate person to address any concerns.
Your child’s intervention specialist and/or related service providers are committed to your child’s growth and progress. Please feel free to contact them directly through your child’s school building with any questions or concerns you may have.

Sabina Pence
Special Education Secretary
230Jamaica Road
Carlisle, OH 45005
937-746-0710 ext. 122
Sabina.Pence@carlisleindians.org