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Krista has hands-on experience in child development and educational support, including shadowing at local daycares, completing observation hours with speech-language pathologists, and volunteering to read for preschool classrooms.
In her free time, Krista enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, and taking long walks with her dogs.

Classroom

1

Education

University of Rhode Island Bachelor of Science in Communicative Disorders (minor in Human Development and Family Sciences)

Professional Designations/Certifications

Early Intervention Certificate

Jordyn has worked as an in-home Personal Care Assistant (PCA) since 2015, providing direct care and support to individuals with complex needs. Additionally, she spent four years working at The Children’s Center for Communication in Beverly, gaining extensive experience supporting students in specialized educational settings.

In her free time, Jordyn enjoys walking her dog, spending time at the lake, and catching up with friends.

Education

University of Southern Maine Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences (double minor in Disability and Educational Studies)

Emily graduated from Bridgewater State University in December 2025 with a degree in Severe Special Education. Throughout her college career, she gained experience supporting individuals with diverse learning, communication, and medical needs through a variety of roles. She continues to work as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) for children with complex disabilities and medical needs and has spent multiple summers at Camp Jabberwocky, a residential summer camp for people with disabilities that provides respite for caregivers and fosters independence, self-determination, and inclusive community living. These experiences have strengthened her passion for inclusive education and helping students build independence, confidence, and meaningful connections. She is excited to begin her teaching career at the Anderson School and looks forward to learning and growing alongside her students, families, and colleagues.

In her free time, Emily enjoys running, doing arts and crafts, baking chocolate chip cookies, and spending time with the people she loves!

Classroom

Middle School

Education

Bridgewater State University Bachelor of Science, Education in Severe Special Education summa cum laude

Professional Designations/Certifications

Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities: All ages
Sheltered English Immersion: State of Massachusetts Endorsement
First Aid and CPR

Kasandra has worked as a direct support professional, providing support with daily living skills, routines, and behavior in a structured and supportive environment. She focuses on helping individuals build independence, feel comfortable, and follow daily routines while maintaining a safe and positive space.

In her free time, Kasandra enjoys spending time with her kids, trying new foods, shopping, and watching movies. She also enjoys organizing and planning activities for her family.

Education

High School Diploma, Lawrence High School

Professional Designations/Certifications

Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification

Conor has spent three years as a substantially separate teacher working with kindergarten and first-grade students with autism, and two years as a special education teacher in a co-taught program.

In his spare time, Conor loves to go on hikes and walks with his Great Pyrenees, Cooper. He is also an avid runner and has run two marathons: Chicago in 2019 and the Marine Corps Marathon in 2024.

Classroom

School-wide Support

Education

BS, Early Childhood Education, Salem State University

Professional Designations/Certifications

Massachusetts Teaching License in Moderate Disabilities PreK-2

Aubrey started her career in California in 2009, working at a large community hospital on the pediatric floor. There, she saw everything from orthopedics and gastrointestinal cases to diabetes and oncology. Aubrey moved back to Boston to be closer to family and worked in a pediatric emergency room. She then moved into the city and worked in Boston on an orthopedic/surgical unit. After taking time off to be at home with her young children, she is returning to work at Anderson School.

In her spare time, Aubrey enjoys playing outside with her family, which includes her husband, son, daughter, and dog. She loves to read, particularly a good thriller or historical fiction, and enjoys watching Boston sports, especially the Red Sox.

Classroom

School-wide Support

Education

BSN, Simmons University
BA in Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara

Professional Designations/Certifications

CPN – Certified Pediatric Nurse
RN – Registered Nurse

Amanda has spent more than 20 years working with children, starting in early childhood education as a preschool teacher. After taking time off to raise her own children, Amanda returned to the classroom in a sub-separate program in Hamilton, MA. Over the next five years, she held several roles, some of them shaped by the pandemic, and discovered her passion for special education. Amanda worked closely with moderate special education students, later moving into a literacy intervention role. This role inspired her to pursue a master’s degree in education with a license in special education. Before joining Anderson School, Amanda worked at Aspire Developmental Services in Early Intervention. In her role at Anderson School, Amanda loves that her position couples her passion for preschool-aged children and for supporting special education students.

Outside of school, Amanda enjoys spending time with her sons, Hunter and Miles. With both in high school, she spends many hours at fields and rinks cheering for them. She also loves walking her dogs, working on house projects, and going to the beach and paddle boarding in the summer.

Classroom

Pre-K

Education

Master of Education, Merrimack College
B.S. in Sociology and Child Education, Northeastern University

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Early Childhood Teacher licensed
Special Education Teacher license in progress

Julia has a passion for working with children who have complex medical conditions and providing care through movement, as well as utilizing various technologies to enhance their day-to-day lives. As a new graduate, she is excited to continue the learning process as she begins working with children through Early Intervention and at the Anderson School.

Outside of work, Julia enjoys traveling and all outdoor activities: going on walks, spending time at the beach or on the boat, and skiing. She loves hanging out with friends and family, as well as reading.

Classroom

School-wide Support

Education

Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University
B.S. in Exercise Science from Sacred Heart University

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR

Vanessa is a speech therapist with over two years of experience working with students ages three years to 22 years old, across numerous special education settings and needs, including intellectual disability, autism, and cerebral palsy. Her experience led to working with a variety of communication forms, such as AAC devices. Vanessa truly believes in empowering and educating both kids and their families on neurodiversity and the power of communication across all forms.

In her free time, Vanessa enjoys crocheting and listening to podcasts.

Classroom

School-wide Support

Education

M.S. in Speech Language Pathology, Northeastern University
B.A. in Spanish and Linguistics, Montclair State University

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Certificate of Clinical Competence from American Speech and Hearing Association awarded alongside M.S.

Taylor has over 10 years’ experience as a practicing speech-language pathologist. Her primary work has been in private, special education schools for children with autism or multiple disabilities aged three to 21 years old. Taylor concurrently has over 10 years of experience in augmentative and alternative communication implementation and programming. She is also proficient in American Sign Language.

Outside of work, Taylor stays active while practicing taekwondo, running, and hiking with her dogs. She also plays the ukulele, enjoys reading and spending time with her family.

Classroom

School-wide Support

Education

M.S. in Speech Language Pathology with Teaching Certification, Ithaca College
B.S. in Speech Language Pathology/Audiology, Ithaca College

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Certificate of Clinical Competence issued by the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Massachusetts State License as a Speech Language Pathologist
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Teacher of Speech Language and Hearing Disorders
Completed initial coursework for PROMPT (Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets)
CPR and AED certified
Safety Care certified
Mobility Opportunities Via Education/Experience certified

For Leslie, the value of occupational therapy is captured by occupational therapist, Gary Kielhofner’s quote: “Life takes on meaning in the minute-by-minute reality in which we experience ourselves achieving ordinary things.” Leslie feels passionate about helping children and young adults engage in the ordinary —yet varied and unique— activities that are important to them and their families. She feels strongly that strides made in the therapeutic environment are able to make the leap to home, school, and the community.

Leslie has significant experience working in specialized schools with children who have complex medical conditions and or multiple disabilities. She has also spent time in pediatric outpatient settings, early intervention, and as an adjunct faculty member for Boston University’s occupational therapy department. These settings gave her the opportunity to work with a wide range of conditions including cerebral palsy, vision impairments (ocular and cerebral), autism, global development delays, traumatic brain injuries, social emotional disorders, and rare diseases.

In her free time, she enjoys cooking, puzzling, being with friends, and exploring the outdoors with her kids.

Classroom

School-wide Support

Education

Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy, Boston University
M.S. in Occupational Therapy, Boston University
B.S. in Business Administration, Kansas State University

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Occupational Therapist
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Certified Occupational Therapist, registered with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Licensed Occupational Therapist

Jenna is an experienced registered nurse with a strong background in acute care and cardiac nursing. Over the years, she has worked at several hospitals throughout Massachusetts, including Lowell General Hospital, Lawrence General Hospital, Winchester Hospital, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Jenna has a passion for working with children and is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized, and family-centered care.

In her free time, Jenna loves to dance. She’s been dancing since the age of two, competing throughout childhood into college.

Classroom

Classroom 3

Education

B.S. in Health Science, Merrimack College
B.S. in Nursing, Salem State University

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Basic Life Support
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support

Suzy has been practicing music therapy with Partners in Child Development and Anderson School since 2011. She began working in the Early Intervention program doing home visits as well as providing music groups in the two to two and two to three classrooms, in addition to working at Anderson School. Suzy is also the Director of Music Therapy at the Manchester, NH Community Music School. She provides music therapy services for Anderson School on Fridays. Previously, Suzy completed a clinical internship and has prior work experience at Children’s Hospital of New Orleans.

In her free time Suzy enjoys reading, watching her daughter play volleyball, and her son perform on stage.

Classroom

School wide support

Education

B.M. in Music Therapy, Berklee College of Music

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR

Rhonda has worked at Anderson School since 2012 as a one-to-one aide, teaching assistant, and classroom teacher. Her passions at work are literacy and social emotional learning. As a parent of four, Rhonda strives to ensure that every child and student is celebrated for exactly who they are.

In her spare time Rhonda enjoys reading, thrifting, and spending time with her family.

Classroom

Classroom 3

Education

M.A. in Moderate Disabilities, Merrimack College, summa cum laude
B.A. in Sociology, Regis College, magna cum laude
A.A. in Early Childhood Education, Middlesex College

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities: PreK to 8th grade
Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities: All ages
Sheltered English Immersion: State of Massachusetts Endorsement

Morgan is a teaching assistant in Classroom 1 at Anderson school. She started working at Partners in Child Development two years ago as a substitute teaching assistant. During that time, she fell in love with the program and all it has to offer. The children, families, and staff at Partners in Child Development create a great learning and work environment, everyone has so much compassion for the students at the school.

Morgan previously worked at daycare centers and summer camps.

In her free time, Morgan enjoys being outside and spending time with family and friends.

Classroom

Classroom 1

Certifications

First Aid and CPR

Michaela has been a licensed and registered occupational therapist for five years. Michaela has experience in hippotherapy, early intervention, and outpatient sensory clinics. She has worked at Anderson School for the past two years. Michaela has most enjoyed finding and creating ways to have Anderson School students access meaningful, age-appropriate, and fun activities to play and learn. Michaela’s biggest influence on her career was her late father, who opened a martial arts school during her adolescence. His first student had a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Michaela and her father worked with his parents and occupational therapists to find ways to teach this student. Michaela enjoyed watching a shy child who could not process touch, learn and thrive over the years, ultimately giving her a big hug before she went to college.

In her spare time, Michaela enjoys spending time with her family, making sourdough recipes, crafting, and gardening.

Classroom

School wide support

Education

M.S. in Occupational Therapy, University of New England
B.S. in Health, Wellness, and Occupational Studies, University of New England, cum laude and Interprofessional Honors

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Pediatric Hand Therapy and Orthotic Intervention
Sensory Enhanced Yoga
Quick shifts: Revolutionizing the Use of Sound in Sensory Motor Integrative Treatment
Mealtime Miseries: Management of Complex Feeding Issues
Beckman Oral Motor Protocol
Astronaut Training: A Sound Activated Vestibular-Visual Protocol
Diversity Leadership Certificate
Massachusetts Occupational Therapist Licensed
Occupational Therapist, Registered certification

Michaela became a Registered Nurse in 2020. While she began her career in geriatrics, she has spent the majority of her career working with the pediatric population. She became a classroom nurse at Anderson School in September of 2024.

In her free time, Michaela enjoys traveling, spending time outside, and trying new restaurants. She loves to sail and swim in the summertime and can be found in front of a fireplace with a good book during the winter months.

Classroom

Classroom 3

Education

B.S. in Health Science, Merrimack College, cum laude
B.S. in Nursing, Northeastern University, cum laude

Certifications

Registered Nurse

Marisa has been a Special Education teacher at Anderson School since March 2024. She’s been working in special education with children who are considered medically fragile for over a decade. She began her career as an instructional assistant in 2014 for students aged three to 21 and transitioned into a teaching role in 2020. Marissa truly loves working with this group of students and continues to learn so much every day from both the students and staff she works with.

When Marisa isn’t in the classroom, she enjoys spending time at the beach with a good book and a turkey sandwich. She loves being outdoors in warm weather doing just about anything, along with baking yummy treats for her family.

Classroom

Classroom 2

Education

B.A. in General Education, Plymouth State University
M.Ed. Special Education in Severe Disabilities, Fitchburg State University

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
MA Initial Teaching License, Special Education – Severe Disabilities

Margaret joined Anderson School after working as a Lead Teacher for the Latchkey Program an early intervention program in the Lawrence Public School System. She’s now going into her fourth year working at Anderson School and loves it! Seeing how hard her students work inspires her every day.

Margaret is passionate about history and helping others. She also enjoys reading and spending time outside with her family.

Classroom

Classroom 3

Education

A.S. in Psychology, Middlesex Community College

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR

Malery joined Anderson School in 2024 and continues to be very excited to be a part of an amazing team. She enjoys supporting students and educators in creating a fun, positive, and productive learning environment.

Malery has two years of experience in working with children, and a background in caregiving as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

In her free time, Malery enjoys watching movies and listening to music.

Classroom

Classroom 2

Certifications

Certified Nursing Assistant
First Aid and CPR

Lianne is a new teacher at Anderson School. She is a Special Education Teacher, having served in multiple roles throughout her career in both public and private settings. Lianne is passionate about working with students with disabilities, advocating for their needs and helping each of them to reach their highest potential.

Outside of teaching, Lianne is a mom to four children and a golden retriever, all of whom keep her busy. They love traveling together, particularly to Disney World. Lianne also coaches softball at a local high school and the Special Olympics.

Classroom

Classroom 1

Education

M.Ed. in Moderate Disabilities, American International College
B.S. in Elementary Education & Psychology, Salem State University, magna cum laude

Certifications

Moderate Disabilities: Special Education licensed
Elementary Education licensed
Sheltered English Immersion endorsed
Autism Specialist certified
First Aid and CPR

Kayla has worked at Anderson School since 2019. She began as a substitute classroom nurse and in 2023, she became the Assistant Nurse Leader.

Kayla has nursing experience in adult medical-surgical, emergency rooms and pediatric ICUs. In addition, she worked at Boston Children’s Hospital as an registered nurse in the ICU float pool. Kayla is passionate about working in both pediatric critical care and within our community.

During her free time, Kayla loves to garden, salsa dance, travel, and hike. She is also learning to speak Spanish.

Classroom

School wide support

Education

B.S. in Nursing, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Basic Life Support
Pediatric Advanced Life Support

Katy is currently in her sixth year at Anderson School. She has worked as a certified nursing assistant for 18 years while also previously working as a certified EEC toddler/preschool teacher. With a background in both the medical field and working with young children, Katy recognized Partners in Child Development was the right place for her as soon as she saw the school for the first time. Every day, Katy continues to be truly amazed by the students, and the level of love and dedication from all the families and staff.

When Katy isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family and puppy, Gino. Summer, with warm weather, is her favorite time of year. Katy is often in Maine enjoying the beach and the ocean.

Classroom

Classroom 1

Education

A.S. in Medical Assisting/Phlebotomy from Northern Essex Community College

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Nursing assistant and safety care trainer certifications

Katie has had the pleasure of working at Partners in Child Development for 20 years as a licensed Physical Therapist; she began with Early Intervention and transitioned to Anderson School. Throughout her career, Katie has been passionate about working with children with complex medical needs and their families. She finds it rewarding to work with each child and see what they can achieve with the right support. Katie also has a special interest in adaptive equipment and orthotics/prosthetics to provide each child with the equipment needed to succeed. She is always eager to learn about new technology in the world of adaptive equipment, such as using an eye gaze device to drive a motorized wheelchair, as this type of technology opens so many new opportunities for students. Katie oversees the monthly brace and equipment clinics offered at Anderson School. Katie works with each family prior to the clinic appointment so a clear plan is in place. These clinics allow Katie to collaborate with outside practitioners for our students during the school day, which means students miss less time at school.

Outside of work, Katie loves to bake and design custom cakes. She also enjoys traveling with her family, especially to warm and sunny destinations.

Classroom

School wide support

Education

Ph.D. in Physical Therapy from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell
B.S. in Exercise Physiology from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Certified Early Intervention Specialists

Hunter is an English Golden Retriever, who loves to swim, paddleboard, and go for long walks in the woods. He enjoys visiting his friends at the Anderson School, where he gets to be part of their daily activities and progress. He is proud to be a part of the team and enjoys supporting the physical and emotional well-being of the students and staff. Hunter is also a retired US show dog champion.

Classroom

School wide support

Certifications

Registered visiting therapy dog with Alliance Therapy Dogs.

Biggest Influence on your Career

The bond formed between students and therapy animals can reduce stress and boost emotional well-being. It can lead to more activity and companionship among peers. Research continues to explore animal therapy benefits in healthcare and therapy settings.

Heide is a dedicated member of the Anderson School community. With 32 years of experience working with children, Heide took early education classes at Wheelock College and brings years of experience in early intervention. She advocates for collaborative teaching and looks forward to working with teachers and therapists daily.

She has been married for 25 years and has two adult children, Evan and Ella. They enjoy traveling and spending most of their free time at Lake Winnipesaukee with family and friends. Additionally, Heide volunteers for the Special Olympics and serves on her town’s scholarship committee.

Classroom

Classroom 2

Education

Early Education coursework at Wheelock College

Certifications

First Aid and CPR Certified

Esthefany is a dedicated Assistant Teacher in Classroom 3. She has eight years of experience working with children, five of those at Partners in Child Development’s Anderson School. She is passionate about providing individualized support to help students reach their full potential. The positive impact of Esthefany’s work on the lives of students and their families continues to inspire her every day.

Outside of work, Esthefany enjoys reading, exercising, spending time with her loved ones, and solving puzzles. She has a deep love for summer and is bilingual in Spanish.

Classroom

Classroom 3

Education

A.S. in Human Services from Middlesex Community College

Certifications

First Aid and CPR Certified

Amanda has been working at Anderson School for five years as a classroom nurse. She also has six years of experience working as a registered nurse in pediatrics. She has always been passionate about being a pediatric nurse, and working with this student population has been so fulfilling. The joy Amanda feels watching each student thrive and succeed is what makes each of her days worthwhile. She is happy to be a part of Anderson school and looks forward to being a part of its growth.

Personally, Amanda is married and has a twelve-year-old son named Cayden who is an avid hockey player. When she is not working at Partners in Child Development, she is in a cold hockey rink. Their family also has a dog named Bruin who enjoys walks on the beach and car rides. During Amanda’s spare time, she enjoys reading and has been learning yoga.

Classroom

Classroom 2

Education

A.S. of Nursing from Lawerence Memorial/Regis College

Certifications

Registered Nurse

Alexandra is a registered nurse at Anderson School, currently in her first year with the Partners in Child Development. Her prior experience focused on caring for acute patients, where she developed a strong foundation in managing routine daily care and urgent medical situations. Alexandra is committed to providing compassionate support to students and their families.

One of the biggest influences on Alexandra’s career is being able to work with medically complex students to help them stay in school and continue learning. She feels fortunate to be part of such a compassionate and supportive team. Alexandra is excited for Partners in Child Development’s continued growth and success the team will continue achieving together.

Classroom

Classroom 1

Education

B.S. in Nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Professional Designations/Certifications

Registered Nurse

With over 30 years of nursing experience, Lisa has dedicated her career to improving the health and well-being of children. She began her journey at Partners in Child Development 18 years ago as a classroom nurse in the Developmental Day Program. Five and a half years ago, Lisa transitioned into the role of Nurse Leader where she works closely with classroom nurses, therapists, teachers, and staff to ensure the highest quality medical care for all students. Lisa has experience working with the pediatric populations at Boston Children’s hospital and in community pediatric settings.

Outside of work, Lisa enjoys spending time with her family and doing all sorts of outdoor activities.

Classroom

School wide support

Education

B.S. in Nursing, University of New Hampshire

Professional Designations/Certifications

First Aid and CPR
Basic Life Support and AED certifications

Brian started his teaching career in 2008, as a case manager and teacher at the New England Center for Children (NECC) in Southborough, Massachusetts. NECC is a residential school for students who have autism spectrum disorders. Brian then spent 11 years working as a Special Education Teacher and Transition Specialist in the Andover Public School System. Over those 11 years, Brian created and developed the Transition Opportunities Program which grew to 30+ students, three teachers, and 12 support staff. While performing out of district observations as part of his administration work, Brian had the great pleasure of observing at Anderson School and fell in love with the school’s culture. When the Program Director position became available, Brian could not pass up the opportunity to join Anderson School.

Brian lives on the North Shore with his wife, Ashley, and two dogs, Luna and Rocky. He enjoys spending time on the beach, walking with their dogs, and cooking. Brian and his wife are huge Celtics fans and enjoy going to the TD Garden to cheer the team on. Brian is also the throwing coach at Andover High School for the track and field team.

Classroom

School wide support

Education

M.S. in Special Education from Simmons College
B.A. in Psychology with a minor in sociology from Colby-Sawyer College
Teacher Leadership Certification from Salem State University
Transition Specialist Certification from University of Massachusetts Boston

Professional Designations/Certifications

Massachusetts Special Education Administrator, All Levels, Initial
Massachusetts Severe Disabilities, All Levels, Professional
Massachusetts Transition Specialist Endorsement
Massachusetts Autism Endorsement
WIDA Certificate of Completion Online ACCESS for ELLs: Administration
First Aid and CPR