The Monroe County Department of Instructional Student Supports provides services to students ages 3-21 who are eligible for special education and related services. All students with disabilities have the right to receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment, with their non-disabled peers, as appropriate. The type and degree of services provided are determined through the development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Records can be requested by submitting a Request for Records Form here, or by submitting a request through Bethany Trent at 478-994-2031 Ext. 1604. Please allow 24-48 hours for records request.
478-994-2031
jenny.rooks@mcschools.org
Mrs. Jenny Rooks, Director of Instructional Student Supports, has been in education for 20 years. Jenny graduated from the University of Maine at Farmington in 2000 with a bachelors in special education. She has gone on to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst as well as receive a masters in Educational Leadership. Jenny is a member of the Georgia Council of Administrators of Special Education. Jenny loves to spend time with her family and travel.
My name is Kerri Suiter. I earned my Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology and minor in Applied Statistics from Kennesaw State University. While working on this degree at KSU, I began volunteering at the Marcus Autism Center in Atlanta serving children with developmental disabilities. I was trained to implement language programs and developed interventions to decrease problematic behaviors. It was during these years of experience I knew I had found my passion to work with parents and their children to reach their full potential, both academically and behaviorally. With the help of my mentors, I began graduate school at Georgia State University to earn a Masters Degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis. In 2013, I became certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and I have over 9 years experience working in the field of applied behavior analysis. I have worked with Monroe County Schools since 2015 providing behavioral interventions for students ages 3-22.
478-994-2031
lashasta.johnson@mcschools.org
Lashasta Johnson has dedicated 14 years to the field of education, serving in various roles including paraprofessional, special education teacher, behavior specialist, and in-school coordinator. She earned her specialist degree in special education from Georgia College and State University. Lashasta is the mother of three children who attend Monroe County schools, and her husband also works within the district. She is deeply committed to the success of every student and educator, as well as to the ongoing excellence of Monroe County.
478-994-2021 ext. 4005
My name is Shannon Sirmons and I am the new District Nursing Coordinator on the Student Support Services Team. I have lived in Monroe County for almost 10 years, and have two sweet boys – Jack & Will. I am so excited to join the Monroe County School system, all while doing what I love – nursing! I have already met some incredible kids, and look forward to meeting more!
478-994-2031
autumn.berkebile@mcschools.org
478-994-2031
maryjo.simmons@mcschools.org
Mary Jo Simmons, one of Monroe County’s School Psychologists, taught for fourteen years before beginning her career as an educational diagnostician in 2020. During her teaching career, she taught in Macon at Woodfield Academy, supporting high school homeschool math students at Veritas Classical Schools, and in the instructional support program at First Presbyterian Day School. Mary Jo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the College of Charleston, a Master’s degree in School Psychology from Georgia Southern, and Specialist degree in School Psychology from the University of Alabama.
478-994-2031 ext. 1603
jennifer.brown@mcschools.org
Jennifer Paul Brown serves as the Parent Mentor for Monroe County Schools, a role she has held since March 2019. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Macon State College and began her professional career at the Forsyth-Monroe County Chamber of Commerce. With a strong background in marketing, Jennifer brings both strategic communication skills and a passion for community engagement to her work with families and educators.
As the parent of a child with a disability, Jennifer offers a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the challenges families may face in navigating the school system. Her son Zander, who is on the autism spectrum and non-verbal, attends Hubbard Elementary School and is enrolled in the ACCESS program.
In addition to her work with Monroe County Schools, Jennifer actively serves on the Monroe County Special Olympics Committee and is a board member of the Sunshine Foundation for Rob’s Place. Through her professional expertise and personal experience, she is committed to helping families access resources, build strong partnerships with schools, and support their children in reaching their fullest potential.
478-994-2031
bethany.trent@mcschools.org
Currently serving as the Administrative Assistant for Instructional Student Support in Monroe County Schools, I’m entering my second year in the district. A proud graduate of Liberty University, I’m passionate about supporting student success and contributing to a strong educational environment. Recently relocated to Georgia, I’m excited to continue growing both personally and professionally in this community.
