Phone: 413-549-8400 , Fax: (413) 549-8409
reception@doctorkate.net| PATIENT PORTAL
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Atkinson Family Practice
Graduation Time
We are taking this blog post to say congratulations to our own Jennifer Smolinksi, our teen and adolescent therapist, who recently graduated from American International College with her doctorate. We asked her to tell us more about what inspired her to continue with her education during these unique times and as a very busy practitioner and mother. Dr Kate notes, “The rest of us feel lazy next to Jenn! But seriously, she is such a gifted therapist and we are lucky to have her every day.”
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AFP also wants to take this opportunity to say Congratulations to all of our graduates, both from our AFP family and those patients of AFP who have graduated this year! Carpe Diem!
Jennifer Smolinski, E.D, J.D., M.S
AFP: Congratulations on your degree! Can you tell us a little about what the degree is?
Jennifer: I graduated with a Doctorate in Education – Leadership and Supervision. As part of this degree I was able to explore the inner workings of public K-12 schools including, among others, special education, school-parent and school-community relationships, and student engagement.
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AFP: What inspired you to continue with this particular degree?
Jennifer: My kids actually inspired me to pursue this degree. I have been on all sides of special education, disabilities, and accommodations ranging from working in schools k-college, as a parent, and as an educator at the college level. Having a better understanding of how and why schools function the way they do has helped me better assist the parents and children that I work with. I have been able to work with parents in the IEP process, attend school meetings, etc.
Jennifer with her son Ryan, 2020
AFP: Now that you have completed school, what is next?
Jennifer: As a first-generation student, I have now earned six degrees and been in school for more than 35 years. It is now time to put all my education and experiences together and be the best person I can be, help others, and hopefully serve as an inspiration and role model.
Well said! Congratulations again, Jennifer! If you are interested in making an appointment with Jennifer Smolinski, contact AFP at 413-549-8400 or reception@doctorkate.net.
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