Transitioning back to school this year is a big adjustment for families, students and teachers.  The school day feels different for everyone and even more so for students with disabilities.  Parents and students with special needs don’t need to go it alone.  The transition back to in-person learning doesn’t have to be stressful.  Pine Tree Society’s Case Management team is here to help and come up with solutions.   

“Many parents are nervous about sending their child back to school because there are so many unknowns,” said Mike Bell, team leader of Children’s Case Management at Pine Tree Society. “It’s hard because people don’t quite know what to expect. As Case Managers, we work through those worries together.  We serve as a go-between and talk with the child’s school and figure out what is going to be different this year, then work with the family to explain what the school day is going to look like, determine how to best accommodate their child’s unique needs and make sure everyone is on the same page and has what they need to be successful.”  

Case Managers are the bridge between all aspects of the child’s life; coordinating smooth communication between providers, educators and family members.  They also link families to resources they need and provide consistent follow up to be sure every detail is followed through and that all the child’s and family’s needs are met.  

“We are here to help take the weight off and help parents figure out what services and resources best fit their needs,” Mike continued. “Due to the pandemic, so many services have closed down or have had dramatic staffing challenges.  There are fewer therapists and providers of home and community supports at a time when families need them the most.  Our purpose is to make sure kids are getting everything they need, no matter what. Our ultimate goal is the child’s progress and development.” 

Contact Mike Bell today to learn more about how you can get started with a case manager and how Pine Tree Society’s Children’s Case Management Program can help connect you with the services and resources you need for your child.  

Call Mike at (207) 386-5965 or via email mbell@pinetreesociety.org or complete this form and we will get back to you.

To be eligible for Pine Tree Society’s case management services, the child must be 0-21 years of age and be enrolled in Katie Beckett/MaineCare. Private pay is also an option.  Instructions for Katie Beckett enrollment and a full list of diagnosis are available on the Pine Tree Society website at this link.