Jefferson Elementary Celebrates its Exceptional Special Education Team

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, Jefferson Elementary is proud to highlight the incredible members of its Special Education Team and the vital role they play in supporting students and strengthening the school community each day.

Jefferson’s special education teachers work tirelessly to balance the complexities of individualized education programs, or IEPs, while building meaningful one-on-one connections with students. Alongside them, dedicated teaching assistants provide the day-to-day support that helps students feel safe, supported and empowered to succeed. The patience, compassion and commitment demonstrated throughout the school are reflected in the growth and progress seen in classrooms and hallways every day.

Jefferson Elementary also recognizes the outstanding contributions of its related service providers, whose specialized expertise helps students overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Whether helping a student develop communication skills, navigate their environment or manage emotions, these professionals work collaboratively to ensure every child receives the support they need.

At Jefferson, the Special Education Team does more than provide services. They create opportunities, build confidence and inspire independence. Their expertise, empathy and advocacy help make the school a welcoming and inclusive environment where every learner belongs.

Jefferson is proud to celebrate and thank its incredible Special Education Team for the lasting impact they make on students and families each day.

Thank you to our team: Mr. Stenson, teaching assistant; Mr. Brown, psychologist; Ms. Muscari, occupational therapy intern; Ms. Copeland, occupational therapist; Mrs. Ellis, teaching assistant; Mrs. Altieri, teaching assistant; Mrs. Wozny, teaching assistant; Mrs. McLean-Turner, teacher; Ms. Lantos, teaching assistant; Ms. Feliciano, teaching assistant; Ms. Mumford, teaching assistant; and Ms. Melendez, teaching assistant; Mrs. Dodge, physical therapist; Ms. Sutter, teaching assistant; Mrs. Shackett, teacher; Mrs. Engler, speech-language pathologist; Mrs. Martin, speech-language pathologist; Ms. E. Gowans, teaching assistant; Ms. Almy, teaching assistant; Ms. H. Gowans, teaching assistant; Ms. Lawrence, teaching assistant; and Ms. Palmieri, teacher; Mrs. Kozak, physical therapist; Mrs. Collins, teacher; Mrs. Mootz, occupational therapist; Mr. Edick, teacher; Mr. Deon, teacher; and Mrs. Deon, teacher; Mr. McQueeney, occupational therapist; Ms. Chandler, teacher; and Ms. Olds, teaching assistant; Tom Joslyn, social worker; Ms. Aponte, teaching assistant; Mr. Alvarado, teaching assistant; and Ms. Cardone, teaching assistant.