October 26, 2012
LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointments of Conny Raaymakers, of Middleville, and Sondra Stegenga, of Holland, and the reappointment of Stephanie Peters, of Eaton Rapids, to the Michigan Interagency Coordinating Council for Infants and Toddlers with Developmental Disabilities.
Housed within the Michigan Department of Education, the 21-member council advises and assists the department in providing early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.
"These individuals are great choices for this board, and I am confident they will do outstanding work on behalf of the children and families of Michigan," said Snyder.
Raaymakers is a behavioral psychologist in a Grand Rapids-based private practice and a positive behavior support consultant for Grand Rapids Public Schools. Previously, she served as a behavior analyst and behavior specialist for the Hope Network's Center for Autism and developmental adolescence residential treatment program. Raaymakers holds bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology from Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University, respectively. She will represent public or private providers of early intervention services and replaces Elaine Smiley.
Stegenga is the Early On coordinator and supervisor for the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District's infant development program. Previously, she served as an occupational therapist for National Heritage Academies and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. Stegenga earned a bachelor's degree in behavior sciences and a master's degree in occupational therapy, both from Grand Valley State University. She will represent public or private providers of early intervention services and replaces Mac Miller.
Peters retired after serving as the Ingham Intermediate School District's Early Childhood and Special Education Support Services supervisor. Previously, she held various early childhood and special education teaching positions with the Lansing School District for 30 years. Peters received a bachelor's degree in social science and a master's degree in special education, both from Michigan State University. She will continue to represent other individuals.
Appointees will serve four-year terms that expire Oct. 31, 2016, and their appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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