The Public Schools of Petoskey recently made an important addition to their team during the July 18 school board meeting. Jodi Beatty, a seasoned professional in the field of special education, was hired as the new director of special education. With a wealth of experience and a passion for student success, Beatty is set to bring a fresh perspective to the district.
Having previously worked with the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District, Beatty comes to Petoskey with a strong background in special education. In her new role, she will be responsible for overseeing special programming across all schools in the district, providing support to staff, and ensuring that students receive the services they need to thrive academically and socially.
One of Beatty’s primary goals in her new position is to establish a gold standard for special education programming in Petoskey. She is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for students, families, and staff, and believes in the power of collaboration and teamwork to achieve positive outcomes. By working closely with building principals to develop 504 plans, Beatty aims to tailor support services to meet the individual needs of each student.
With a strong educational background that includes a master’s degree in education and a pre-doctoral educational specialist degree, Beatty is well-equipped to lead the district’s special education department. Her passion for student success and her dedication to compliance with laws and regulations make her a valuable asset to the Petoskey community.
Originally from Oxford, Beatty has worked in various school districts throughout Michigan, including Grand Blanc Community School District and Waterford Community Schools, before joining the EUPISD. She and her husband had planned to retire in Northern Michigan, and the shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic provided them with the opportunity to make their dream a reality.
In her own words, Beatty expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, „I have such a passion for doing what’s best for students and determining the best options through collaboration and teamwork to provide excellent education and programming for special education students.“ Her dedication to student success and her collaborative approach make her a valuable addition to the Public Schools of Petoskey.
As Beatty settles into her new role, the district can look forward to continued growth and innovation in special education programming. With her expertise and passion for student success, Beatty is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of students in Petoskey.