Meet Our Certified Special Educators
Amanda Coe
Head of School
Hello! I’m Amanda Coe, and I have been part of the Cedarcrest community for over 20 years—first as a Special Educator for 18 years and now as Head of School. I hold a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and psychology from Westfield State University, a General Special Education license from New England College, and a master’s degree from SNHU. I am passionate about fostering a collaborative and supportive school environment where both students and staff can thrive.
I live in Keene with my husband and son. Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors through backpacking, camping, and kayaking, and chasing sunrises and sunsets. I also have a love for the ocean and the thrill of amusement parks.
Elaina Waibel
Teacher
Hello! My name is Elaina Waibel and I am the teacher in the classroom with the youngest learners. I am from New Hampshire and received a bachelor’s degree from Keene State College in early childhood education. My first job was working with children with autism in a residential school setting and decided then that my passion was serving children with special needs. I went on to acquire teaching certification in Early Childhood Special Education and am currently working on obtaining my General Special Education Certification. Over the past 30+ years I have held a variety of education positions and I am so happy to be a classroom teacher again! I have a true passion for working with our youngest students! Working closely with our entire classroom team and helping each child progress in all areas of their development and reach their fullest potential is a challenge that I am honored to accept daily.
I live in Marlborough with my husband and we love to spend time at the ocean relaxing on the beach. I also enjoy traveling (especially to visit our children), baking, and spending time with family and friends.
Nadja Stinson
Teacher
Hello! My name is Nadja Stinson, and I am the teacher for the Yellow Room (High School) here at Cedarcrest. I recently earned my Special Education certification from the University of New Hampshire, and I am thrilled to be part of such a wonderful school community. I have been at Cedarcrest for five years, initially working as a Child Care Assistant and Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA), before transitioning into my current role as a teacher. I am passionate about creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment where every student, educational assistant, and LNA feels supported and valued.
Originally from Brazil, I hold a bachelor’s degree in English as a Second and Foreign Language, and I spent three years teaching English to students from Kindergarten to 12th grade before moving to the United States. I am fluent in Portuguese, my native language, and I also speak some Spanish. I live in Keene with my husband and son. We enjoy spending time outdoors, and we try to visit my home country whenever we can. We also love exploring new restaurants and cultures, always eager to try different cuisines.
Stephenie Konopka
Specially Designed Instruction Teacher
My name is Stephenie Konopka and I am the Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) teacher. In my role, I tailor instructional methods, materials, and assessments to support the unique learning styles and abilities of each student. While I primarily support each student individually, I also help support each of our three classrooms when needed. As a mom of three wonderful children, one of whom faces the challenges of Noonan Syndrome with Multiple Lentigines, both my parenting journey and my career have fueled my dedication to inclusive education. I am a Keene State College graduate and a certified early childhood educator. Currently, I am enrolled at the University of New Hampshire in the College of Professional Studies working toward my special education credential.
My husband and I live in Swanzey with our son and our dog, Penny. Our two adult daughters also live and work in the Monadnock region. We love spending time as a family outdoors, whether it’s hiking with Penny, downhill skiing, or enjoying a round of golf. When we’re not outdoors, chances are you’ll find us in the kitchen, exploring our love of cooking!
