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The South Hunterdon Regional School District is dedicated to providing comprehensive educational programs and services for every learner based on their individual strengths and needs. Working together with parents and families our instructional teams and Child Study Team specialists identify the special needs of students with disabilities and develop and provide students’ educational programs and in the Least Restrictive Environment appropriate for each learner.


The Child Study Team includes the Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant, School Psychologist, and School Social Worker. Depending on the areas of concern for each individual child, the team may also include other specialists like a Speech and Language Therapist, Counselor, Behavior Specialist, Occupational Therapist, or Physical Therapist.
 

At the South Hunterdon Regional School District, we strive to create an environment where every student, regardless of their unique abilities and needs, has equal access to high-quality education. Our commitment to special education is rooted in the belief that diversity is a strength, and we strive to create an educational environment that celebrates differences, respects individual needs, and ensures that every student thrives academically, socially and emotionally.


Our vision for special education encompasses the following principles:
 

Inclusivity and Equity:
We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable educational system where all students are valued, respected, and appropriately integrated into every aspect of the learning community. We promote an environment that recognizes and appreciates the diverse strengths and contributions of all students.

 

Individualized Learning:
We recognize that each student is unique and has varying abilities, learning styles, and needs. We are committed to providing personalized, differentiated, and evidence-based instruction, interventions, and supports that address the individual strengths and challenges of every student, empowering them to reach their full potential.

 

Rigorous and Relevant Education:
We believe that students deserve access to a rigorous, meaningful, and relevant education that prepares them for lifelong learning, employment, and independent living. We strive to provide enriched innovative teaching practices and assistive technologies that permit access to the core curriculum standards as well as inclusive extracurricular activities.

 

Advocacy and Empowerment:
We advocate for the rights and needs of students and empower them to become self-advocates. We aim to develop their self-confidence, resilience, and independence, preparing them to navigate the world and achieve their aspirations.

 

Collaboration and Partnership:
We foster strong partnerships among educators, families, students, and the community to ensure the success of our students. We believe that collaboration and open communication are essential.

 

Professional Excellence:
We are committed to embodying a culture of professional excellence among our educators and staff. We shall provide ongoing professional development, resources, and support to ensure that our educators are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to effectively meet the unique needs of all of our students.

THE DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL SERVICES IS LOCATED AT:

301 MT. AIRY HARBOURTON RD, LAMBERTVILLE, NJ 08530
PHONE: 609-397-1311
FAX:  609-397-7428


OUR SPECIAL SERVICES TEAM IS:

Director of Pupil Services:
Dr. James Nesmith


Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant:
Nichole O'Donnell, M.S.Ed., LDT-C


School Psychologist:
Shannon Hill, Ed.S., NCSP


School Social Workers:
Jessica Lui, MSW, LSW
Ashley WilliamsLCSW


Child Study Team Administrative Assistants:
Joann Merski and Sherry Ferrera

 

Speech and Language Specialists:

South Hunterdon Regional Elementary School
Nicholas Nocella, M.S., CCC-SLP
Phone: 609-397-0183 x1345
Email: nicholas.nocella@shrsd.org


South Hunterdon Regional Middle School
Diane Ford, M.S., CCC-SLP
Phone: 609-397-0183 x1340
Email: diane.ford@shrsd.org


South Hunterdon Regional High School
Kristin Iturbides, M.S., CCC-SLP
Phone: 609-397-0183 x1258
Email: kristin.iturbides@shrsd.org