Staff – Children’s Services

GSDC trains our professionals with the highest industry standards and latest innovations in therapy. Our paraprofessionals are also trained at this level to ensure consistency and the highest quality service possible.

Exceptional training and exceptional staff for extraordinary people!


Madison Miranda
Developmental Specialist

Madison, who goes by Maddie, has been with Gem State Developmental Center since February of 2024. She earned her bachelor's degree in Educational Studies and certificates in Early Intervention and Leadership through Boise State University. As a Developmental Specialist, Maddie has a passion for learning, growing with, and providing support and positive intervention to participants at the children's program. In her free time Maddie enjoys taking care of her plants, building Legos, reading, and spending time with family and friends. 

Locations: Nampa/Meridian

Cassan Francois
Developmental Specialist

Cassan has been with Gem State Developmental Center since February of 2024. She has a passion for providing support and positive intervention to youth at the Childrens' Program. In her free time, Cassan enjoys creating art, reading, and spending time with family and friends. 

Location: Nampa

Lindsey Newell
Developmental Specialist

Lindsey has been with Gem State Developmental Center since July of 2024. She earned her bachelor's degree in (Mental Health) psychology and is currently working towards a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. As a Developmental Specialist, Lyndsey shares her experience as a mentor and support professional with participants in the Children's Program at GSDC. In her free time, Lyndsey enjoys spending time with family and friends, exercising her faith, and being of service to her community. 

Location: Meridian 

Michael Walker
Behavior Interventionist

Michael has worked for Gem State Developmental Center since May of 2017. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management through Farmingdale State College and Master of Education in Special Education through Boise State University.  He also has over 10 years of experience working with individuals with special needs.  As an Intervention Professional, he enjoys having the opportunity to foster and sustain the social and emotional development of children with developmental disabilities in a collaborative team environment.   He loves spending time with family and friends, reading about psychology, and watching a good hockey game!

Locations:  Nampa/Meridian

Camilla Stuck
Behavior Interventionist

Camilla has been with Gem State Developmental Center since May of 2024. Prior to that, Camilla was an outstanding Intern with GSDC. Her passion for learning and community service involvement allows her to express a unique view of cooperation and sustainability. In her free time, Camilla enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Location: Meridian

Diana Barrow
Behavior Interventionist

Diana has been with Gem State Developmental Center since August of 2024. As a Behavior Interventionist, Diana supports the youth by positive modeling, teaching appropriate social interactions and utilizes intervention strategies to help participants manage challenges in their day. In her free time, Diana enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pursuing her hobbies. 

Location: Meridian 

Michelle Cook
Behavior Interventionist

Michelle has been with Gem State Developmental Center since August of 2024. As a Behavior Interventionist, Michelle promotes positive engagement, appropriate social interactions and utilizes intervention strategies to help participants manage challenges in their day. In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with family and friends. 

Location: Meridian 

Emilyann Yuruki
Developmental Technician III
Emily has worked for Gem State Developmental Center since September 2023. She works as a Community Based Support & Intervention Technician. Emily is currently attending Boise State University, where she is majoring in Psychology. She enjoys helping others and supporting the special needs community any way she can. In her free time, Emily likes to read books and go paddle boarding. 

Location: Meridian