Mrs. Annette Miller, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education & Student Services

Dr. Jennifer Grimaldi, Director of Special Education &
Student Services

Mrs. Margie Gullo, Manager of Student Personnel Services

Mrs. Debra Hampshire, Administrative Secretary of Special Education Funding

Mrs. Pam Culin, Special Education Coordinator

Mr. Jeff Bevan, Senior Therapist

Ms. Christina Battiato, Supervisor of Special Education (Preschool, Middle Schools)

Throughout my 24-year career in education, my focus has always been clear: creating inclusive, supportive environments where every student feels valued and equipped to succeed.

Over the years, I’ve served as a classroom teacher, learning disabilities teacher/consultant, and administrator—currently as Supervisor of Special Education for our Middle Schools and Preschool programs. From coordinating district programs to advocating for student welfare, I’ve worked across every level of education to help diverse learners reach their potential. I am also honored to continue this work at the state level, currently serving my first term as a committee member on the State of New Jersey’s Special Education Advisory Council.

I hold dual master’s degrees in Special Education and School Leadership from Wilmington University and a B.S. in Marine Science from Stockton University. In addition to certifications as a special education teacher, learning disabilities teacher/consultant, supervisor, and principal, I hold my Certificate of Eligibility as a superintendent and am a Nationally Certified Educational Diagnostician.

Outside of my career, I live in Pilesgrove Township with my three children. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, competing in dragon boat racing, and weightlifting.

I look forward to the upcoming school year and working closely with our students, staff, and families to foster a strong, supportive community.

Ms. Jennifer Ellsworth, School Psychologist

My name is Jennifer Ellsworth, and I am a school psychologist on the Child Study Team within the district's preschool program.  I earned my graduate degree and education specialist (EdS) postgraduate degree in school psychology from Rowan University.  I've worked in education for thirteen years and have been working in the Washington Township School District for two years.  I enjoy working with children and collaborating with their families to ensure each child reaches his/her potential. 

Dr. Jessica Savage, School Psychologist

I earned a Ph.D. in school psychology from the University of South Florida. I worked as a school psychologist in Florida at the elementary and middle school levels before moving back to NJ. I began working in Washington Township at the elementary level in 2017. I joined the preschool team at the start of the 2022-23 school year. I truly enjoy working with preschool children and their families! I am the proud mother of two wonderful daughters.

Ms. Jodie O'Brien, School Social Worker

My name is Jodie O'Brien, and I am a School Social Worker on the Child Study Team within the district’s preschool program. I earned my graduate degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have worked in education for more than 20 years and also provide psychotherapy on a part-time basis.  I look forward to working collaboratively with families and helping each student recognize their strengths, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to thrive. 

Ms. Rebecca Hansen, Speech

I am beginning my 7th year as a SLP at Grenloch Terrace Early Childhood Center. I have been an SLP for 20 years and previously worked in early intervention. In my free time I enjoy reading. I founded a book club, and am a steward of a Little Free Library. 

Ms. Melody Laranjeira, Speech

Ms. Jill McGinley-Brett, OT

I am an Occupational Therapist with over 25 years of pediatric clinical and school-based practice. My speciality areas include sensory integration, fine motor and visual motor/perceptual development across natural and school environments, as well as individualized education planning (IEP). I hold a SIPT certification alongside licensure from the NBCOT and New Jersey Department of Education. I am passionate about student-centered, evidence-based care, and multidisciplinary team collaboration. 

Ms. Stacie Lerro, PT

I am a PT, DPT, and I am a pediatric physical therapist with over 30 years of experience working with children and young adults. I have served as a school-based physical therapist with Washington Township School District since 2013, providing evaluations, interventions, adaptive equipment support, and collaboration with educational teams for students in grades PK–12. Prior to working in the school setting, I spent 12 years at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, providing pediatric care across the inpatient, outpatient, and rehabilitation settings. I am an NDT-certified therapist with a passion for supporting children with developmental disabilities and neurological conditions.  

Mrs. Lynne Hughes, CST Secretary, 

Mrs. Alli Serafinelli, Supervisor of Special Education (Elementary Schools)

Ms. Cindy Kreitzer, School Psychologist

My name is Cindy Kreitzer, and I am a school psychologist on the Child Study Team at Birches, Whitman, and Hurffville Elementary Schools.  I received my graduate degree in school psychology from the University of Delaware and have worked in the Washington Township School District since 1994.  For most of my 32 years, I have worked at the elementary school level.  I look forward to partnering with families and helping students discover and build upon their individual strengths. 

Ms. Christine Murakami, School Social Worker

I am a School Social Worker and Child Study Team member serving Hurffville, Birches, and Whitman Elementary Schools. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from Stockton University and have worked as a school social worker for the past eight years. Before joining Washington Township, I worked in out-of-district placements supporting students with a variety of academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs.

I am passionate about supporting the whole child, building positive relationships with students and families, and helping students feel supported and successful in school. This is my first full year in Washington Township, and I am excited to be part of the school community!

Ms. Karolyn Adams, LDT-C

Ms. Nina Victor, LDT-C

I am proud to serve as a Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant and Case Manager on the Child Study Team (CST) with Washington Township Public Schools.

I bring over 17 years of experience in public education to our district, having previously served as a special education teacher with Camden City Public Schools. My current focus centers on educational assessments—administering diagnostic academic, perceptual, and cognitive tests to understand each child's unique learning style and characteristics.

As a CST member and Case Manager, I evaluate referred students to determine special education eligibility and oversee individual student cases from initial evaluation through ongoing progress. I work directly with parents, teachers, and administrators to design, coordinate, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to each child's strengths. Additionally, I consult with school staff and families to recommend practical instructional strategies, classroom accommodations, and differentiated learning methods.

I firmly believe that strong partnerships between families, teachers, and specialized staff are essential to student achievement. I look forward to working collaboratively with our school community to ensure a supportive and successful year for your child!

Ms. Angela Bradbury, School Psychologist

I have worked across many buildings within the district since 2019. I have been a school psychologist for 14 years.I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Rider University. I attended graduate school and obtained my Masters and Educational Specialist degrees in School Psychology at Rowan University. 

I’m passionate about understanding how the brain works, executive functioning, and learning differences. I’m always looking for opportunities to learn and grow, whether through reading, research, podcasts, professional practice, or learning from the students and families I work with. 

I’m a passionate Philly sports fan! I love attending sporting events and concerts, visiting museums and libraries, and exploring different cities. I’m also a big fan of discovering new restaurants and visiting established favorites with family and friends. I am a member of the Sons and Daughters of Italy in Paulsboro, NJ, where I continue to explore my Italian-American heritage.

When I’m not exploring, you’ll likely find me at home with my two cats, Louis and Vuitto. I have the cutest nephew, Cooper, who keeps the extended family active. 

Ms. Jessicarose Johnson, School Psychologist

Welcome! I am thrilled to support the students, families, and staff at Thomas Jefferson Elementary, Wedgwood Elementary, and Bells Elementary School! I joined the Washington Township Public Schools team in the fall of 2023, bringing a deep passion for helping every child feel supported, understood, and ready to succeed.

A proud triple-owl graduate of Rowan University, I earned my B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology (2015), my M.A. in School Psychology (2016), and my Ed.S. in School Psychology (2018). I am dedicated to creating a safe, encouraging environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Outside of school, you can usually find me at home relaxing with my two beloved cats, Panda and Beans. I am looking forward to another wonderful school year with our fantastic school community!

Ms. Suzanne DeFrank, School Social Worker

I am the proud mother of three boys and two cats. I attended Cinnaminson High School and still reside in Burlington County today. In 2000, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rutgers University. While studying there, I worked with individuals with Autism as a classroom assistant at Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center. My commitment to this population continued over the years, and after earning my degree, I decided to further my career in Social work. From there, I continued at Rutgers pursuing my MSW – Masters in Social Work and graduated in 2002. Currently, in addition to my MSW, I am a New Jersey-certified school social worker.  While I’ve also worked with children as a Social worker in the medical field, most of my experience is in NJ schools. I have been employed in Washington Township for the past 15 years and enjoy calling this my second home. Along with being a Child Study Team case manager, I also focus my work on providing social-emotional learning opportunities to children within the Special Education program, along with supporting their families and connecting them with community resources.

Ms. Aimee Heslin, LDT-C

Hi! I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from the University of Delaware, my Masters in Special Education from Saint Joe’s University, my Dyslexia Specialist certification from Wilson Language Training, and my LDTC certification from Rowan University.  Prior to working as an LDTC, I was a Special Education teacher and a Supplemental Reading teacher.  

In my free time, you can find me curled up with a good historical fiction book, baking and cooking for my five children, working out at a boot camp, relaxing on the beach in Avalon, or spending time with the people and two dogs that I love.  

I am driven to learn and do more for my students.  Discovering new strategies to support students and teachers is something I am passionate about.  I love learning and sharing how students can enhance their executive functioning, absorb reading skills, and strengthen their social battery.  I am dedicated to helping students hone their strengths and harness their weaknesses.  I look forward to meeting and working with you!

Ms. Jessica Penza, Speech

I am a Speech-Language Pathologist and have been part of WTPS since 2011. I earned my undergraduate degree from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, and my master’s degree from the University of South Florida in Tampa, FL. I am accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and hold my Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, as well as my New Jersey State Licensure and Speech-Language Specialist Certificate.

Outside of school, I am a proud mom to two children, a 9-year-old son and a 4-year-old daughter. When I’m not at school, I love spending time at the beach, watching beautiful sunsets, enjoying a good cup of coffee, and getting lost in a great book. I feel fortunate to be part of the WTPS community and look forward to supporting and helping my students grow each year.

Ms. Stacey Rudnick, Speech

My name is  Stacey Rudnick, and I’m excited to be working with your children as their Speech-Language Pathologist this school year. I’m looking forward to a successful and engaging year of growth and learning.

With over 20 years of experience in early intervention and school-based environments, I bring a well-rounded approach to supporting speech and language development. I hold a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and am licensed in the state of New Jersey.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, reading, staying active, and spending time with family, friends, and my beloved dog.

Ms. Kimberly Sirolli, OT

I am a licensed and NBCOT-registered Occupational Therapist with over seven years of experience helping children build confidence, independence, and the skills they need to thrive at school, at home, and in their everyday lives. I have worked extensively in both school-based and outpatient settings, supporting children with a wide range of developmental and functional needs.

I take a collaborative, individualized approach to therapy, working closely with children, families, teachers, and other professionals to create meaningful strategies that support each child’s unique goals. I earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University and is proud to bring a compassionate, child-centered approach to every family I serve.

Ms. Ellen Bleidorn, PT

Ms. Stacy Barilotti, Speech

I am a Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience supporting children with diverse communication needs. I earned her M.S. in Communication Disorders from Mercy College and B.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. I specializes in language, articulation, fluency, pragmatics, AAC, and early communication development. I am passionate about collaborating with students, families, and multidisciplinary teams to support meaningful communication and student success. I am an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist and holds a New Jersey Speech-Language Pathology license.

Ms. Ginetta Cahill, Speech

Ms. Ashley Knopka, OT

I have been serving students in Washington Township Public Schools since 2018. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rowan University and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Stockton University. As a school-based occupational therapist, I work with students across a variety of programs and needs, supporting their ability to participate successfully and independently within the school environment. I take a collaborative, student-centered approach, working closely with students, families, teachers, and related service providers to develop meaningful strategies that promote independence, confidence, and participation. I am a passionate about supporting each student’s unique strengths and helping them reach their fullest potential.

Ms. Stacie Lerro, OT

Ms. Alicia Boyle, Speech

Ms. Kaitlyn Rybacki, OT

I have nearly eight years of experience at Washington Township Public Schools, where I am dedicated to helping students develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to participate and succeed in the school environment. I have experience supporting a diverse population of students with a wide range of developmental, sensory, motor, and functional needs, using individualized strategies to promote participation and success across academic and school-based activities. Throughout my school-based career, I have worked closely with students on the autism spectrum as well as students with a variety of other learning and developmental needs.

I value a collaborative, student-centered approach to occupational therapy and works closely with educators, families, and multidisciplinary teams, including ABA, speech-language pathology, and physical therapy, to support each student's unique goals and continued growth. Beyond school-based practice, I have provided skilled occupational therapy in subacute, long-term care, and memory care. I hold a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rowan University.

Ms. Shayna Collins, Speech

Ms. Amber Bartolone, Speech

I am excited to begin another wonderful school year! I received my Bachelor’s degree from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and my Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University.

I have experience working with both school-aged children and adults, and I have had the privilege of supporting students as a Speech/Language Specialist in Washington Township since 2019. I truly enjoy helping children develop their communication skills and watching them grow and gain confidence throughout the school year.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter, reading, and baking. I feel very fortunate to do what I love each day and look forward to creating meaningful connections with my students and their families.

I’m looking forward to another great school year!

Ms. Nicki McGonigle, Speech

Ms. Nicole Caporale, Speech

Ms. Jessica DuBray, Speech

Ms. Gina Marcucci, Speech

Mrs. Carla Orsimarsi, CST Secretary

Ms. Christina Battiato,
Supervisor of Special Education (Preschool, Middle Schools)

Ms. Emily Ruoff, School Psychologist 

Ms. Kylee Duffield, School Social Worker

Ms. Amanda Pietrangelo, School Psychologist

Ms. Colleen McKnight, LDT-C

I have been a Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant since 2014, beginning in the Swedesboro-Woolwich School District and joining Washington Township Public Schools in 2018.  Before that, I was a special education teacher in the Camden City Public School District and the Gloucester County Special Services School District.  I earned a Bachelor's Degree in elementary and special education from Towson University and a Master's Degree in Learning Disabilities from Rowan University.  I completed post-graduate work at Wilmington University in Delaware, earning an NJ Supervisor's Certificate.  I value working on a multidisciplinary team, being a lifelong learner, taking a collaborative approach, and meeting students' needs in an individualized way.

I am passionate about working together with students and families.  I believe that home-school partnerships are essential and value the role that all individuals take in a student's education.  I strive to support positive and inclusive environments for students where they are able to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Outside of work, I spend most of my free time with my husband, two children, and extended family.  I enjoy cooking, reading, spending time with friends, and traveling.

Ms. Stephanie Owens, LDT-C

Ms. Maria Vai, LDT-C

I am a Case Manager at the middle school level. I currently serve as a Case Manager at Orchard Valley Middle School and as a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant at both Orchard Valley Middle School and Chestnut Ridge Middle School.

Before transitioning to the Child Study Team, I spent 17 years as a classroom teacher. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Psychology, with certification in Pre-K through Grade 8; a Master’s degree in Literacy, with certification in Pre-K through Grade 12; and Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant (LDTC) certification.

Ms. Gabrielle Sulpizio, Speech

Hi! I earned my Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders and my Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from La Salle University. This is my fifth year working in the Washington Township Public School District, and I am excited to continue supporting our students! I truly enjoy working with middle school students to help strengthen their expressive and receptive language skills and support their success in the classroom. I feel very fortunate to be part of the Chestnut Ridge community and look forward to helping our students become confident and effective communicators!

Ms. Melanie Curry, Speech

Ms. Laura Walsh, Speech

Ms. Kimberly Sirolli, OT

I am a licensed and NBCOT-registered Occupational Therapist with over seven years of experience helping children build confidence, independence, and the skills they need to thrive at school, at home, and in their everyday lives. I have worked extensively in both school-based and outpatient settings, supporting children with a wide range of developmental and functional needs.

I take a collaborative, individualized approach to therapy, working closely with children, families, teachers, and other professionals to create meaningful strategies that support each child’s unique goals. I  earned my Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University and am proud to bring a compassionate, child-centered approach to every family I serve.

Ms. Jill McGinley-Brett, OT

Ms. Ellen Bleidorn, PT

Mrs. Kelly Callaway, CST Secretary

Mr. Joseph Hoopes, Supervisor of Special Education (High School)

Mr. Alex Ireland, School Social Worker

Ms. Cassandra Brasile, School Psychologist

I was raised in Burlington County and graduated from Lenape Regional High School. In 2005, I earned a B.A. in Psychology from Rutgers University while providing ABA services for children with autism at The Lovaas Institute. I then completed both my M.S. in School Psychology (2008) and my Educational Specialist degree (2011) at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. During my graduate studies, I worked as a behavioral specialist for New Jersey’s Early Intervention System, assisting families of infants and toddlers with developmental delays as they transitioned into school-age services. I began my career in 2011 at a small district in Burlington County and also served on the county’s School Crisis Response Team. Since 2013, I have been employed as a School Psychologist for Washington Township Public Schools, currently at Washington Township High School, where I have experience working with students from Pre-K through age 21.

 In addition to my evaluation, programming, and counseling work, I help oversee the district's Transition School to Work Program, which supports young adults transitioning into adult services. I am also a CST team leader at the high school and participate in the summer child study team. As a resident of Washington Township and a parent of two students in the district, I enjoy spending my free time at soccer games, the beach, exploring nature trails, and stargazing. 

Mrs. Victoria Fultano, School Psychologist

I am a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) and joined WTPS in 2021. Prior to joining the district, I spent two years working in Gloucester City, NJ. I am currently a doctoral student at Georgian Court University, pursuing a Psy.D. in School Psychology. Recently, I completed a two-year term as the Government and Professional Relations Committee Chair for the New Jersey Association of School Psychologists (NJASP). This role gave me the opportunity to travel to Capitol Hill in the summer of 2025 to advocate for student needs on a national level.

I hold an M.A. in School Psychology and an Ed.S. from Rowan University, as well as a B.A. in Psychology from Montclair State University. As a proud alumna of WTHS (Class of 2008), I am absolutely thrilled to give back to the community that shaped me.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, reading, and learning how to knit. My family includes a cute little dog named Louise.I am incredibly grateful to help students navigate their high school years at WTHS and look forward to working with your family.

Mr. Eren Semen, School Psychologist

Ms. Erin Munch, School Psychologist

I am a New Jersey-certified school psychologist who has proudly and happily worked in the field of education since 2004 and within the Washington Township Public School District since 2013. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with academic honors from what is now Stockton University and, a few years later, earned a Master’s degree in School Psychology and an Educational Specialist degree from Rowan University. I later went on to receive my Supervisor of Education certificate.

My favorite part of the job is interacting directly with students, developing strong and positive working relationships with students and their families, and, of course, witnessing them graduate and take the first steps toward making their future goals and dreams come true!

Ms. Cynthia Garr, LDT-C

I bring over 22 years of dedicated service in education to my role as a Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant (LDTC). I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Psychology, along with Teacher of Reading certification, from Rowan University in 2005. I began my career in the Winslow Township School District, where I spent 16 years as a dedicated classroom teacher. As both an educator and a mother, I saw firsthand the importance of advocating for children and ensuring every student receives the individualized support they need to thrive.

I returned to Rowan University to complete a Master of Arts in Special Education and earn my LDTC certification in 2021. Today, I proudly serve on the Child Study Team at Washington Township High School. In this role, I manage student cases, conduct comprehensive educational evaluations, and collaborate closely with teachers, specialists, and families to design tailored Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). As the parent of two busy teenagers attending school in the district, I am deeply invested in the Washington Township community. You can often find me at WTHS sporting events, exploring new restaurants and shops, or simply enjoying quality time around town with my family and friends.

Ms. Starr Everwine, LDT-C

I am in my third year as a Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant (LDT-C) at Washington Township High School, currently working with students on the 9/10 campus after completing my clinical training with the district during the summer of 2024. Prior to stepping into my current role, I built a diverse background in special education, starting as a Multiple Disabilities Self-Contained Teacher at Clearview Middle School during the 2013–2014 school year. I then worked as a Special Education Teacher at West Deptford High School beginning in 2014—focusing mostly on science instruction across in-class resource, pull-out resource, and Alternative School settings—and spent three summers teaching Extended School Year (ESY) in Preschool Disabilities classrooms.

Beyond my work in the classroom, I has been actively involved in supporting school communities through athletics and extracurriculars. I previously coached Cross Country, Winter Track, Girls Spring Track, and Special Olympics Bowling. At my former district, I also served as a Co-Advisor for Young Women Leaders and the Classes of 2021 and 2025, as well as the Advisor for SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions).

I earned her Master of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in Learning Disabilities from Rowan University in May 2023, followed by my LDT-C certification in August 2024. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Biology from Rutgers University–Camden (Class of 2012), where I completed the education program to earn certificates in Special Education and Elementary Education. My academic foundation also includes an Associate Degree in Education from Gloucester County College (2010), and is a proud alumna of West Deptford High School (Class of 2008).

Outside of school, I enjoy working out, spending time outdoors, going to the beach, and reading. Above all, I love spending quality time with her family, including her husband, Erik—with whom I recently celebrated a 10-year anniversary—their two children, Trent (9) and Riess (8), and their two French Bulldogs, Fifi and Luca. I can often be found in the stands cheering on her children at their soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, and basketball games, and is thrilled to continue supporting and empowering students across the district. 

Ms. Lauren Gallagher, Speech

I am thrilled to be part of the Washington Township High School family as a Speech-Language Pathologist, where I love helping students find their voice, build confidence, and shine! Mrs. Gallagher earned a Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University and a Master of Science from Nova Southeastern University.

With a deep passion for supporting students, I have been working in school settings since 2007 and has held Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) since 2013.

When I am not in the classroom cheering on students, you can usually find me making memories and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Ms. Stacie Lerro, OT

Ms. Ellen Bleidorn, PT

Corey Sirawatka, Teacher of the Deaf

Ms. Kim Mastroianni, Teacher of the  Visually Impaired

I am an experienced educator and Teacher of the Visually Impaired with more than 20 years of experience supporting students with visual impairments and diverse learning needs. I currently serve with the Washington Township School District, providing vision services, Expanded Core Curriculum instruction, and support with braille, assistive technology, and self-advocacy. I collaborate with IEP and 504 teams, provides professional development to educators and families, coordinates community and state resources, and mentors new teachers. 

Before my current position, I spent more than 13 years with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, providing specialized vision services, Braille and technology instruction, professional development, and community-based programming for students. I also has experience as a special education teacher, including co-teaching, differentiated instruction, assessment, reading intervention, and IEP development. 

I hold a Master of Science in Education from Dominican College, a Bachelor of Arts from Rowan University, and a Supervisor Certificate from Seton Hall University. I am certified in New Jersey as a Teacher of the Blind or Visually Impaired, Teacher of the Handicapped, Elementary School Teacher, and School Supervisor.

Mrs. Karen Petner, CST Secretary