Our Team
ASUA takes pride in cultivating a highly skilled, experienced, and caring staff. Comprised of dedicated teachers, instructional assistants, related service providers, administrative assistants, business operations professionals, and administration, the ASUA staff is highly diverse and brings their knowledge and skill to ASUA to help support our mission, vision, and continue our unique task of building of inclusive communities.
Jamie Jenkins, M.Ed.
Head of School
(she/her)
Master of Education in
Special Education
Special education, advocating for students with disabilities, and supporting families are my passions. Since joining ASUA as Head of School in 2018, I have been proud to lead a talented and caring team of vision- and mission-driven professionals as we have expanded to serve our community from Preschool through 12th grade utilizing ASUA’s progressive, compassionate, and effective methodologies. In my time away from ASUA, I am a mom of three amazing young men ages 26, 23, and 19. I enjoy hiking, cooking, traveling, and spending time with my loved ones.
Jillian Winn, M.Ed., BCBA
Associate Head of School
(she/her)
Masters of Education in Foundations Behavior Analysis, Board Certified Behavior Analyst
I started my career at ASUA in the summer of 2015 as a behavior specialist. I now have worked my way up to the Associate Head of School. I love being a part of our growing community of staff, students, and families. We are paving the way to create a more inclusive world together one day at a time! Outside of work I love spending time with my niece and nephews, traveling, or just relaxing with a good book or movie.
Kay Stauffer, SHRM-CP
Chief Operations Officer
(she/her)
B.F.A. in Painting and
Metals & Jewelry
I have been with ASUA since the founding of the school and I am so honored to be a part of such an amazing place. I oversee the Operations, including HR, facilities, finance, graphic design and marketing, as well as the Spectrum Greenhouse Program. I love ASUA and it's exciting to work here - no two days are the same! Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors with my husband and dogs and I am an active artist creating conceptual work and wearable jewelry.
Emma Fisher, M.Ed.
Director of Transition, Research, & Development
(she/her)
Master of Education in Secondary Education; PhD Student in Special Education
I joined ASUA in 2022 because I wanted an opportunity to utilize my experiences as a classroom teacher and my expertise in special education research. My goal is to help our staff use the most current research-based practices, while also sharing with the world the wonderful work we do here! Outside of work, I love to bird-watch, hike, and spend time with my pets.
Emily Gramlich, M.Ed
Director of Behavioral Programming
(she/her)
Master of Education in
Special Education
Hi my name is Emily Gramlich and I am the Lead Behavior Specialist of ASUA! I have a Master's of Education in Special Education from Penn State University and an Undergrad in Autism Behavioral Studies from St. Joseph's University. I am currently studying to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analysis certification examination. I love working at A Step Up because I love to support my students make behavior progress in small and big ways. Every step is progress towards something greater! All of our staff are extremely dedicated and our administrators go above and beyond to provide guidance and support for all staff and students.
Amanda Savastana MS, OTR/L
Director of Clinical Programming
(she/her)
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
The best part of my role at ASUA is watching our students gain confidence throughout the school year and find joy and meaning in their lives. Outside of work, my most important role is being a Mom to my 2 year old son who is curious, fearless, and determined.
Tim Kurpiel, B.S.Ed
Director of Special Education
(he/him)
Bachelor of Science in Education, PreK-4th. Dual certified in GenEd PreK-4th and Special Education K-12th
I began working at A Step Up Academy in 2015 after graduating from Temple University. I began my time at ASUA as an Instructional Assistant before fulfilling roles as an Assistant Teacher, Lead Teacher, and eventually my current role as the Lead Inclusion Support Teacher. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I am blessed with a loving wife, a healthy son, and 2 crazy dogs. I am an avid fisherman, golf addict, and lover of all Philly sports.
Nancy J. Venner
Director of Advancement
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Going to work every day is the most selfish thing I do because I find it so rewarding and self-satisfying. My parents taught me at a young age that community service is the best work of life! In my position, I will be raising funds for ASUA. I am lucky that I will be able to share this compelling mission that truly moves me, with the community! In addition to enjoying my job, I play tennis, love animals, have fun hiking and being outdoors, and I am an over-the-top baseball fan.
Ev Smith, FMP
Operations Coordinator
& DEI Specialist
(they/he)
B.A. Art/Digital Fabrications
In my roles at A Step Up Academy, I support the team as Operations Coordinator, assisting with business office tasks. As Diversity & Equity Specialist, I am working with the entire team to ensure that ASUA stays up to date with our understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In my free time I regularly speak and write about my personal experiences being an Autistic adult, and actively work towards making the world a better, more accommodating, and accepting place for others on the spectrum. I also love kayaking, hiking, camping, sewing, and making art.
After cheering ASUA from its inception (and the west coast) I'm thrilled to be able to join this amazing place.
I'm passionate about researching and implementing technological solutions to facilitate student learning and equip them with skills for 21st-century life after school. It is a privilege to join a team of similarly-minded staff at ASUA whose focus is creating a safe, fun, non-judgmental environment where students can thrive.
Gia Pines
School Services Coordinator
(she/her)
Currently in School for Early Childhood Development.
I have been working with children since I was 14. I love teaching and watching children grow their critical thinking, social, motor, and cognitive skills. I've always enjoyed the psychology of children and couldn't imagine working in any other field. I think this position will not only allow me to help the children learn but can also be a learning experience for me.
I have been with A Step Up Academy since September 2019. ASUA has shaped me into being more patient and compassionate and has helped me reach my goals in the ABA field. I love watching our students grow and achieve big and small accomplishments each and every day. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, cooking, skiing, and being outdoors.
Gracelyn Bullard
Instructional Coach
(she/her)
Master of Science in Special Education, Orton-Gillingham Certified Level II
I have been a part of the ASUA community since the 2018 school year as a student teacher. I have learned so much during my time here in the various roles I have been in, and I look forward to continuing
to learn and grow alongside our students! I love staying active and being outdoors. I also love
playing sports and watching my favorite teams.
I enjoy the reward of workin with the children i get to work with everyday and helping them work through every day challenges. ASUA has had a supportive environment from the start, in large part to the staff I have gotten to know and had the pleasure of working with so far.
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Brendan Schluth, B.A. Music
Creative Therapy Coordinator & Music Specialist
(he/him)
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Music has been a positive force throughout my life and a tool in which I have used for educational and therapeutic purposes within my own self. I am a proud member of
A Step Up Academy because they promote the importance of music in their programing and are dedicated to the musical development of
their students.
Kayla Griffin
Behavior Specialist
(she/her)
Bachelor's Degree in Psychological and Social Sciences. Currently obtaining Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Throughout my studies at Penn State University, I took a strong interest in conducting research to understand human behavior. My goal has always been to provide support and apply my knowledge to those in need, and ASUA has given me that opportunity. Those who know me know I thoroughly enjoy all outdoor activities, making ASUA's mission of community inclusion one of my favorite parts of working with this team!
Alyssa Hughes M.S. CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
(she/her)
Masters of Science in Communication Disorder Sciences
Being an SLP is an important job because I love to give students creative and functional ways to communicate with others. I was drawn to ASUA because of the supportive staff and the desire to build and enhance their students communication. In my free time, I enjoy walking my dog, Otto, and relaxing at the Jersey Shore!
Courtney Target, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
(she/her)
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Hi, my name is Courtney Target and I am an Occupational Therapist at ASUA! The best part about being an OT is seeing kids increase their independence within their everyday routines while also finding joy in a variety of activities! In my free time, I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and hiking!
I enjoy working with children, being a part of helping them learn and grow. I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and exercising.
I enjoy making a impact on many children lives. I also enjoy watching the children learn through the creative ways we teach them.
Mason Clark
Teacher
(he/him)
Bachelor of Science in
Music Education for
Inclusive Populations
I graduated from Temple University with a degree in Music Education K-12 for inclusive populations, but quickly fell in love with special education throughout my program and during substitute teaching. In September, I started working on my Master’s for Special Education. Outside of my school life, I enjoy all aspects of food. I like finding new recipes and getting creative in the kitchen. I also enjoy being challenged in competitive video games. Finding new strategies and ways to improve my skills is both fun in my free time and a useful skill here at ASUA.
Robin Wagner
Education Coordinator
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
My name is Robin and I am the Education Coordinator. I am a very organized person who loves planning things. I have a passion for working with children and love working at ASUA! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my son Hunter. I also spend most of my free time on the Delaware River riding my jet ski during the summer.
Michelle Wigley
Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Associate's in Business / Currently Perusing Bachelor's in Inclusive Education with a Minor in Psychology and an
ASL Certification
michellewigley@
astepupacademy.org
I am thrilled to become part of the team at A Step Up Academy! My own schooling experiences have brought me into the special education field. I am beyond grateful for the amazing teachers that I had in high school, thanks to them I found my calling to help special education students reach their greatest potential.
Anastasia Gelin
Lead Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelor of Science
My love for kids is what truly brought me here. Being one of eight siblings I have had the pleasure of being an older sibling and taking care of my siblings. Being about to work with kids and help them in a larger way has truly made me so happy!!
Amanda Diaz
Inclusion Support Interventionist
(she/her)
B.S. in Behavioral Health & Human Services
I love working with kids.
I'm excited to be the Art Specialist at ASUA so I can make art accessible to our students. Psychology and art are my two passions, so I feel blessed to be able to pursue a career in
art therapy. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, hiking, being outside, caring for my orange tabby cat, and getting creative with friends.
Alexis Wenger
Behavior Interventionist
(she/her)
Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Studies
alexisw@astepupacademy.org
Hello! I love working with children, especially in ECE. I have spent most of my career working in Special Education and can’t wait to get back into it! I have a 10 year old son named Brayden and am currently in a Masters program to obtain my BCBA. I am excited to start this new journey with ASUA.
Anna Baruffaldi
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Master of Science in Psychology
What brought me to ASUA is my desire to work in the field of psychology. Recently graduated with my Masters in General psychology, I had a wide range of interests and ASUA seemed like a great place to start! Outside of work I enjoy yoga, shopping, and spending time with my cat.
I am a Temple University Alumna. Working with students of all abilities is a true passion of mine, so I am very happy to be working here at ASUA. Today’s children are tomorrow’s future. It is truly rewarding to be able to support and shape the minds of children.
Jacqueline Kaczmarczyk
Behavior Technician
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
I recently graduated from Temple University and have had my heart set on working with children for as long as I can remember. What brought me to ASUA was the welcoming environment and the opportunity to help ASUA students thrive in a number of ways! In my free time, I enjoy going for runs, doing crafts, and reading.
Camryn McCloskey
Behavior Interventionist
(she/her)
B.S. in Hospitality Management, Currently obtaining a Master's Degree in
Applied Behavior Analysis.
Hi! My name is Camryn McCloskey, and I am an Instructional Assistant at A Step Up Academy. I joined the ASUA team in February of 2023. I fell in love with working in the special education field and decided to go back to school for my Masters. I am currently in Applied Behavioral Analysis program at York College. I enjoy traveling, going to the beach, and spending time with friends and family!
To have the opportunity to watch children grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient individuals, is the best feeling ever. Being a single parent of an autistic son gives me more of a drive to assist in pushing your child. Every child is bright and being a part of ASUA's growing team gives me the confidence that I CAN!
Bianca Joseph
Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, starting Master of Elementary Special Education
biancaj@astepupacademy.org
I started working with children with ASD in 2021 as an RBT in clinical and home settings. I transitioned into schools in 2022 and have loved it ever since! I am passionate about working with children with specials needs and look forward to becoming a teacher. I am excited for my new journey at ASUA!
Maggie Bianchini
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Sophomore in College Studying English and Minoring in Secondary Education
I have always had a passion for working with students in Special Education. I want to be a Special Education teacher.
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Isaiah Davenport
Instructional Assistant
(he/him)
Bachelors of Arts in Communications/Video
I genuinely love helping others succeed and advocate for themselves. I am passionate about creating a fun learning environment to mentor students. In my free time, I enjoy making music, shooting photography, and teaching kickboxing.
Thomas Manley
Health and Physical Education Teacher
(he/him)
Bachelors of Science in
Physical Education
I have a natural passion for educating individuals on the benefits of Health and Physical Education. What brought me to ASUA was the opportunity to be able to come in and make an impact on so many lives. Not only do I care about the students, but I also care about the staff and parents who do so much for everyone involved in their child's education and success.
Havyn Steele
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
I graduated from Muhlenberg College in January 2023 with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I have worked with individuals with autism for many years and have found, from holding various positions in the field, that my passion lies in special education. I am beginning my position as an Instructional Assistant at ASUA at the start of the 2023-2024 school year.
Emily Knowles, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
(she/her)
Master of Occupational Therapy
My name is Emily Knowles and this is my first school year at ASUA! I love seeing students working towards independence in their daily routines and facilitating fun and creative activities to help students achieve their goals! Outside of work, I love to read, go to the beach, go for walks, and hang out with family and friends. I look forward to this new adventure at A Step Up Academy!
Taylor Pearsall
Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor's in Early Childhood K-3 and Special Education Pre-K-12
Hi, my name is Taylor Pearsall and I am a Transition Teacher at A Step Up Academy. With 11 years of teaching in special education, I am excited to combine my expertise, experience, and passion for teaching children with ASD how they can reach their fullest potential during and after their time at ASUA. Being an educator is rewarding in that I am able to have a front-row seat to watching my students work hard to reach goals and milestones that they have put their minds to. Outside of my career at ASUA, I am a proud mama to our 4-year-old daughter, Josephina. My husband Bill and I enjoy traveling! We love cruising as a family of three and will be taking our sixth cruise this year. When we are homebound, we enjoy spending time with our Beagle, Koca, and watching the latest and greatest Disney movie!
John Patrick
Instructional Assistant
(he/him)
Bachelor of Science in
Criminal Justice
I became interested in this field after an internship in college. Since then I have spent time working with children and adults. I came to ASUA to return to a school setting after gaining experience in other settings. Outside of work I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, spending time with my friends, and reading.
Christine Pickard M.Ed
Teacher
(she/her)
Master of Education in
Special Education
Hi, my name is Christine and I am a teacher at ASUA. I have my Master's Degree in Special Education from Eastern University as well as a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Cabrini University. I have been a paraprofessional for the last couple years in various school districts and classrooms but I found my passion working with students in the Autistic Support classrooms and from there knew I wanted to be an Autistic Support teacher. In my free time I like to listen to music, travel and learning more about how I can best support my students.
My name is Omini Smith and I am currently working on receiving my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Community College of Philadelphia. As I join the ASUA team, I am looking forward to new life fulfilling experiences, and I will strive my best to make a positive impact on the families that we serve, as well as making a difference in the lives of the children at ASUA.
Ryan Rose, MSS
Instructional Assistant
(he/him)
Master of Social Service; PhD Candidate in Social Work
Helping students cultivate their educational and personal development is very fulfilling to me. Before joining ASUA I worked in social services for autistic young adults, advised college students in service fellowships, and conducted community health driven research. In my current academic life I do research and writing in social theory applied to novel ways of navigating and transforming inequitable systems towards realizing greater freedoms and wellbeing. During down time I enjoy hiking, philosophy, creative arts, and game nights with friends.
My name is Ian and I have been a special education teacher for over 6 years now. What drew me to ASUA was the mission of the school as well as the small community feeling which allows you to truly get to know your students. I enjoy mountain biking and going on different adventures.
Brenna Dolan
Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary and Special Education from Arcadia University
I had the opportunity to complete my student teaching at ASUA and between the staff and students had a wonderful experience. I have a passion for walking alongside diverse learners and supporting them as they pursue their goals. I cannot wait to do that alongside the staff and students at ASUA!
Alyssa Lawson
Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
I recently graduated from Ursinus College and I knew special education would be the perfect career opportunity for me because it combines my passions for education, psychology, and helping others. I’m excited to start my journey at A Step Up Academy and get to know new and amazing people. In my free time I love being outdoors, reading, or spending time with the people I love!
![IMG_E0057[1] - Peter Chareczko.JPG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/63c395_2d52685eb4cd455dada9de2c28233a81~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_200,w_3024,h_3631/fill/w_67,h_81,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/IMG_E0057%5B1%5D%20-%20Peter%20Chareczko_JPG.jpg)
Victoria Chareczko, MS
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Master of Clinical
Counseling Psychology
victoriac@astepupacademy.org
I am passionate about helping people and helping them find comfort in their lives. I enjoy helping people of all ages achieve any goal they might have.
Alyssa Gerold
Music Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Music in Music Education
After graduating in May 2023 I was worried about finding the “dream job” until I found A Step Up Academy! I am thrilled to be able to join such a wonderful team straight out of college and to have the opportunity to share the joys and positive effects of music with all of our students!
Elexa Sauls
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
B.F.A in Fine Arts,
Minor in Education
Throughout my volunteering in high school and fieldwork in college, I began to develop a passion for working with students with special needs. I enjoy watching students achieve their goals.
Stephen Yee
Music Instructional Assistant
(he/him)
Bachelor of Arts - Jazz Studies, Rutgers University
New Brunswick
In 2019, I earned my Bachelors degree in Jazz Studies from Rutgers University, New Brunswick. Since then, I have taught over 1800 private lessons and taught elementary school music at Chester Community Charter School and The Shipley School. I hope to use my teaching experience and deep passion for music to help students at ASUA to the best of my abilities!
Being an RBT is a rewarding experience. I've been an RBT for about 2 years and I enjoy knowing that I am making a difference in a person's life. This type of work is way better than working in a labor exhausting job, like I have before.
Cece Sansalone
Speech Language
Pathologist Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelor of Speech, Language, and Hearing
Hello! My name is Cece and I am one of the SLPA's at ASUA. I have had many roles and positions during my career working in the school environment, but I have always had a passion for speech. Growing up in a trilingual home taught me the importance of communication and I love discovering proper outlets for our students voices so they can feel heard!
I have been working as a BHT for about two years and absolutely love what I do. What lead me to working here is that I wanted to be apart of school system and work as a team instead of being stationed in them.
Kayleigh Trumbore, MSS, LSW
Licensed Social Worker
(she/her)
Master of Social Service
kayleigh@astepupacademy.org
My favorite part of school social work is helping students find success by working through social and emotional barriers to their learning. I look forward to collaborating with families and the rest of the passionate staff at ASUA to best support our students! Outside of work, I enjoy reading, baking, and arts and crafts.
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I taught Special Education for a while before becoming certified for Visual Arts education. I thrive on having a classroom in which artists of any skill level can comfortably create.
Stephanie Galdi
Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Science in Education
I am a passionate teacher who loves helping students in the process of discovery and learning! I enjoy spending time outdoors, cooking up new recipes, and learning about art and history.
Abbie Knobler
Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Sciences in Early and Primary Education, Currently studying to receive my Master of Sciences in Special Education Prek-12
Hi! My name is Abbie Knobler, and I am a Special Education teacher at ASUA. I received my Bachelor of Sciences in Early and Primary Education from the University of Scranton, and I am currently studying to receive my Master of Sciences in Special Education from Saint Joseph's University. I was drawn to ASUA because of their welcoming learning environment where students of all abilities can prosper and succeed. I have a passion for learning alongside my students while helping them achieve their goals!
I love teaching and always felt like I learned differently than others and wanted to become that teacher that I felt I never had!
After spending over a year being a virtual classroom assistant to my own son's Kindergarten school year during Covid, I decided to return back to in-person education and try out Special Education. I spent the next two years getting to know my students, and falling in love with seeing their progress! I came to ASUA in September and have already seen such growth in our students socially, academically, and emotionally due to our determination and teamwork. I am eager to see what the rest of this school year can do for our kids!
I joined ASUA for growth and development, to experience more in my field, and to give my professional experience where it's needed.
Currently, I am an IA and am working on becoming an RBT. My goal is to eventually move up in my field to become a BCBA. Finding ASUA has been great for me, I love what I do and have learned a lot in the short time that I’ve been here.
I have always had a special place in my life for special education. I grew up with an autistic brother and I was always involved in his education. I knew I that always wanted to help individuals to grow to their highest potential and be able to participate in the community. I wanted to join ASUA because I feel that ASUA is a place where they help students grow to their highest potential.
Nora Mancini, B.S. Ed.
Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Science in
Special Education and
Early Childhood Education
I started working a ASUA in February of 2023 and have loved it ever since! I am passionate about working with children with specials needs and love building relationships with my students. In my free time, I like to cook, go for walks, and spend time with my family.
Alexandra Sluko
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice
I have a passion for helping others and find it rewarding to support children in their growth and development. In my free time, I like to run long distances; I run 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, and even completed a marathon in 2022. I am also an adventurous person who enjoys rock climbing, skiing, and skydiving!
Yu Jin Lee
Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor's of Science in Early Childhood/Elementary Education
I believe education begins from recognizing students' needs. I think ASUA would be a great opportunity that I can provide for students' needs to help them accomplish their goals in a small group or one-on-one teaching setting. I hope the relationship between me and the students gives great memories to make them smile when they think of the days at ASUA.
Latisha Downing
Assistant Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Art in
Human Services
Working in this field gives me the opportunity to impact the lives of children by providing them tools and resources to learn according to their learning style.
Britney James
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelors in Criminal Justice. Currently in a master's program for Forensic Psychology.
I came to ASUA because of my love for helping children. I have wanted to expand my knowledge and experience with all types of children and thought that ASUA would be a great start for me being as though I have never worked with autistic children before.
I am looking to learn and adapt to more challenging behavior, as well as career growth.
Ally Schecher
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelor of Strategic Communication
I am interested in this field because I find it really important for children with autism to feel comfortable and safe at school. I also value ASUA's mission to provide an environment that nurtures each student's individuality and accelerates academic growth.
Shannon Kelly
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Helping others was always something I enjoyed, so exploring a job in this field felt like a great fit. I have been working with children and adults with special needs since 2019, which eventually led me to ASUA! Working at ASUA has been so enjoyable and I love the relationships that I have been able to build in the process. I am very passionate about working with individuals with specials needs and am excited to keep pursuing this field!
Lauren Maqboul
Teacher
(she/her)
Bachelor of Arts in Special Education preK-12
I am a recent graduate of Holy Family University with a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education. I begin my graduate program at Holy Family in January in Special Education with an Autism Endorsement. In my free time, I can be found jamming to Taylor Swift and being a proud hockey mom.
Ian Mallaghan-Rasco, Ed.S., M.S.
School Psychologist
(he/him)
Master of Sciences in School Psychology, Educational Specialist in School Psychology
I am passionate about ensuring all students receive appropriate support which capitalizes on their strengths. ASUA offers an inclusive environment where students receive individualized, and flexible support from passionate, caring staff. I am proud to join them in that mission. As a school psychologist, my job is to help identify students’ strengths, and create reports that are digestible and comprehensive. In doing this, I partner with staff to implement best-practices in the classroom. In everything that I do, my aim is to advocate for students and families. Outside of work I enjoy going on hikes, traveling, binge-watching my favorite show at the moment, and spending time with my dog Stanley!
I am planning on pursuing my masters in ABA to become a BCBA. I saw ASUA as the perfect environment to develop in regards to obtaining my RBT certification, gaining the experience, and learning directly from the BCBAs here at A Step Up Academy.
My son was diagnosed with autism at age three and from there I started working with children to get a better understanding of him and his needs. I really love the field and stuck with it ever since.
Kelly Mancini, MS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
(she/her)
Master of Sciences in Occupational Therapy
My name is Kelly and I am very excited to be a part of the ASUA team! As a part of the team, I hope to help students work towards independence in their daily routines by creating activities and goals that will help them to be successful in all areas of life. Outside of work I enjoy going to the shore, being outside, and hanging with friends/family! I look forward to my future with ASUA!
I joined ASUA to further my knowledge and experience working with children with Autism! I love working with children, I think they are just little bundles of joy, I think adults can learn a lot from and about them, and they have just as much to teach us as we have to teach them!
Adrienne Stacy MS, CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
(she/her)
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology; Master of Education in Reading, Language and Literacy
I am thrilled to be working with the students of ASUA on their communication skills. I am incredibly passionate about providing multi-modal access to communication and encouraging each student to move at the pace that feels good for their spirit. Outside of work I enjoy the arts, gardening, and camping.
Emily Lazovich
Instructional Assistant
(she/her)
Masters of Science in School Counssling
After my interview, I loved how different things were run here than previous employment. My passion is working with young adults on the autism spectrum. Seeing them grow and preparing them for the outside world and just simply making a difference is something I love doing.