Principals
Kim Baratta
Principal/PAEC Center School
Hello, my name is and I am the principal at PAEC Center. My professional background includes receiving my B.S. in Business Management. After completing an alternative certification program through Chicago Public Schools, I received my Master’s degree in Special Education. I then began my career as a special education teacher at a school similar to PAEC Center. My journey then took me to PAEC Center, where I have been the principal since August, 2017. I feel very fortunate to be able to work with the population I love!
PAEC Center services students with severe/profound cognitive disabilities, moderate cognitive disabilities as well as autism. Our students range from age five through age twenty two. We have 17 classrooms in our main building, three classrooms are housed at Proviso East where our students have access to their peers during gym and lunch. We also have a Transition program which is housed at the TH Wade Center in Maywood.
Inga Ezerins
Assistant Principal/PAEC Center School
Welcome to PAEC Center Family,
It is with the deepest joy, honor, and gratitude that I welcome you to a new school year at the PAEC Center. As I begin my fourteenth year as Assistant Principal here, I continue to feel so fortunate to be part of this remarkable community. Working alongside your incredible children, dedicated families, and our extraordinary staff is both a privilege and a blessing.
Each day, I am inspired by the strength, love, and resilience of our families, as well as the talents and unique gifts your children bring to our school. I feel truly honored to partner with you in supporting their growth and celebrating their achievements.
My background includes a Director of Special Education degree, a Master’s in Educational Leadership (Type 75/Principalship), and a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education (LBS1 with endorsements in Science and Social Science). This training, paired with my personal experience as a parent of an adult child with special needs, gives me both the professional expertise and the personal perspective to serve as a strong advocate for your child. Please know that I will always be your partner, your ally, and your voice.
My door is always open. Whether you have concerns, questions, or simply want to share your child’s successes, I welcome the opportunity to listen. My number one goal is to ensure that your child is at the very heart of everything we do, while also supporting you as you navigate your child’s educational journey.
Together with our PAEC Center staff, I am excited to continue building a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where every student thrives. Our mission and vision guide us to provide high-quality, evidence-based programs that foster growth in academics, vocational skills, social-emotional health, and independence. Beyond academics, our greatest priority is honoring the dignity, potential, and unique journey of every student we serve.
I look forward to a year filled with collaboration, growth, and many celebrations of your child’s progress. Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of being part of your family’s story. I am humbled and honored to walk alongside you and your children on this journey.