Our Staff

Erin DeCarlo-Executive Director

Erin is the Co-Founder and has served as Executive Director since Rising Star opened in 2006. Her son, Thomas, who was born in 2001 with cerebral palsy, inspired her to establish the organization. Erin has dedicated her life to raising awareness and advocating for Conductive Education and individuals with motor challenges. In addition to leading Rising Star’s programs and operations, she actively advocates for people with disabilities within the community and she works closely with school districts to develop the appropriate IEP’s for the Rising Star students. Erin and her family reside in Bay Village.

Maria Dubick-Office Manager/Fundraising Coordinator

Maria has been a dedicated member of the Rising Star team since 2006, serving in a variety of roles throughout her tenure. Her extensive experience within the organization has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of its mission and operations. Currently, Maria focuses much of her time on coordinating the organization’s annual fundraiser, which generates more than 50% of the funding needed to support Rising Star’s programs and services. She resides in Bay Village with her husband and two children.

Kara Gallagher-Knight- Director of Operations and Conductive Education Assistant

Kara has been a dedicated member of the Rising Star team since 2009. She plays an integral role in the organization’s daily operations and holds several key responsibilities. Kara oversees the Young Adult Conductive Education Program and serves as Assistant to the Conductor Teacher across all programs. Working closely with the Executive Director, she contributes to strategic planning and organizational decision-making. Kara resides in Euclid with her husband, Danny.

Julia Rajki- Director of Conductive Education

Juli joined Rising Star in 2012 after graduating from the Conductive Education program at the András Pető Institute in Budapest, Hungary. She began her career working under Senior Conductors and, within four years, advanced to become Director of Conductive Education. In her current role, Juli assesses students and develops individualized programs designed to help each child achieve their highest level of independence. She resides in Mentor with her husband, Dánes, and their two daughters.

Sammie Enger- Intervention Specialist

Sammie has served as Rising Star’s Intervention Specialist since 2020. She oversees all academic programming, including developing and implementing lesson plans, collecting and analyzing student data, and preparing progress reports for the State of Ohio, local school districts, and families. Sammie resides in Chesterland with her husband, Austin, and their baby boy.

Anthony DeCarlo -Music Teacher and Academic Assistant

Anthony joined Rising Star in 2019 as a Conductive Education Assistant. Since then, he has expanded his role significantly, taking on a variety of additional responsibilities. With his strong musical background, Anthony serves as the organization’s Music Teacher and also develops math lessons for students. In addition, he works as the Educational Assistant to the Intervention Specialist. Anthony resides in Mayfield Heights with his wife, Nicole.

Bridget Simenc – Speech Therapist and Activities Director

Bridget joined Rising Star at the start of the 2025–2026 school year. She is a retired Speech Therapist and former Principal from the Euclid City School District. At Rising Star, Bridget serves as the Speech Therapist and, drawing on her background in drama and music, also leads as the Activities Director. Bridget resides in Willoughby with her husband, Tom.

Peggy Eicher – Classroom and Building Support Associate

Peggy joined Rising Star in 2020. Peggy’s background in working with people with disabilities has helped her to form a special connection with the Rising Star students. Peggy’s responsibilities include assisting the staff in the classrooms, keeping inventory of supplies, preparing student lunches and keeping Rising Star tidy and sanitized. Peggy resides in Euclid with her husband, Mike.

Jennifer Zilke – Academic Assistant

Jennifer joined Rising Star at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. Jennifer’s vast background in working with people with disabilities has been a great asset. Jennifer assists in all capacities of the Academic realm. Jennifer resides in Willowick with her husband and daughter.