The Alpha School Team

John Gonzalez, Principal

I am the principal of Alpha School. Previously, I served as the supervisor of instruction at the Gateway School in Carteret, New Jersey. I am a graduate of Rutgers University and New Jersey City University, holding a Master of Arts in Special Education. I bring years of experience working as a classroom teacher, head teacher, and administrator with the Jersey City and Newark Public Schools.

Diane Gray, Supervisor of Instruction

My name is Diane Gray, and I’m the Supervisor of Instruction at Alpha School. I have been in the field of education for over 20 years. I graduated from LaSalle University with my Elementary and Special Education degrees. I received my Masters of Education degree, as well as, my Guidance Counselor Certificate and Supervisor Certificate from Georgian Court University. I worked in public school special education for 15 years, while also coaching girls softball and basketball. I was the Stem teacher at Harbor School, before beginning as the RKS Supervisor of Instruction. I have had the privilege of supervising at all three of our schools, Alpha, Harbor, and Gateway. I am very fortunate to be part of this amazing team of professionals. I look forward to a productive partnership between our staff and families to ensure that our children can achieve their highest potential.

Nicole DiMeo, Supervisor of Instruction

Hi! My name is Nicole DiMeo. I am excited to begin my journey as a Supervisor of Instruction here at Alpha. I have many years of experience in education, having received my Bachelor’s Degree from Georgian Court University in 2007, my Master’s Degree from The University of Phoenix in 2024, and most recently I completed courses to be certified as a Supervisor. I have dedicated my career to fostering academic excellence and supporting students. I am committed to enhancing instructional practices and promoting innovative teaching strategies throughout the school. I have a passion for education that is driven by a desire to create inclusive and engaging learning environments that empower every student to succeed. I truly enjoy being a part of the Alpha Team and I am eager to work with faculty, staff, and the community to elevate instructional practices and achieve educational goals.

Wanda Pratola, Secretary

I first started at the Harbor School (our sister school) in 2001 and I transferred to the Alpha School in 2004, and have been here ever since. My job is diversified which makes it interesting on a daily basis. I am the first person everyone sees when you enter our doors. I have a positive attitude and I am always happy to greet all our visitors. My duties consist of answering the telephone, taking care of students’ records, scheduling all meetings, and speaking with many of our students’ parents on a daily basis. I also assist all our staff with their needs as well. I feel that being positive, compassionate and getting along with administration as well as my co-workers is very important in our setting. The Alpha School has become my second family and I enjoy coming to work every day. I feel that I make a real difference in the lives of our students and their families.

Denise Sibilia, Secretary

My name is Denise Sibilia and I am a secretary at Alpha School. I first started working part time at our sister school, Harbor School in 2020. I soon had the opportunity to work full time between both Harbor and Alpha Schools. I later transferred full time to Alpha School in 2022. In addition to the office duties, I am responsible for, I enjoy the daily interaction I have with administration, staff, students and their families. I find it fulfilling being a part of helping to ensure that the school day runs smoothly for the Alpha School family. I enjoy being there to help everyone have a successful and wonderful day. I enjoy coming to work because of the wonderful people I get to work with every day. I feel blessed being part of the amazing team at Alpha School.

Angela Caruso, Secretary

With over 35 years of experience as a secretary and administrative assistant, I’ve had the pleasure of working and developing my skills in banking, advertising, public relations, retail, as well as the medical and education fields. For the past 40 years, I have raised my family, and now I’m enjoying the joy (and privilege!) of watching—and spoiling—my four grandchildren as they grow. Playing the piano and violin is my go-to way to relax and decompress.
I feel truly blessed to have been given the opportunity to work here at The Alpha School—an opportunity that fits perfectly for both me and my family. With a granddaughter who is autistic, my goal is to continue learning and understanding more about autism so I can be a strong support for her, my daughter, and my son-in-law.
I’m looking forward to working alongside everyone here at Alpha to help make our students’ lives healthier, more productive, and truly enjoyable.

Marion Brady, Primary Teacher

My name is Marion Brady, I am a primary teacher at Alpha School. I have been in the field of education for 18 years. I graduated from Georgian Court University with my Humanities, Education, and Special Education degrees in 2007. I received my Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies from Georgian Court University in 2013.

I love teaching our students at Alpha School and working with our dedicated staff. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my seven grandchildren and cooking with my husband.

Erin Rhoades, Primary Teacher

Hi! My name is Erin Rhoades, and I am a Special Education teacher with a strong passion for helping every student reach their full potential. I graduated from Kean University in 2007 with a degree in Secondary Education and History and later earned my Teacher of Students with Disabilities certification from Georgian Court University in 2022.
I began my teaching journey with Catapult Learning, where I worked for three years as an Academic Support teacher. In 2021, I joined the Toms River School District as a paraprofessional, supporting middle school students, and soon after transitioned into a Special Education teaching role at the elementary level. In January 2025, I was excited to become part of the team at the Alpha School.
I believe in creating a classroom environment that is supportive, structured, and engaging for all learners. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family.

Amanda Keene, Primary Teacher

My name is Amanda Keene. I am a special education teacher at Alpha School. I have worked for over 10 years in the special education field between being a paraprofessional and special education teacher. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from Montclair State University. In my spare time I enjoy going fishing, camping, spending time with family and friends, and watching movies.

Courtney Leiby, Primary Teacher

Hello everyone, my name is Courtney Leiby and I am a Special Education Teacher at Alpha School. I have been working in Special Education for the last 15 years in Pennsylvania and am now teaching in New Jersey for the past year. I graduated from East Stroudsburg University in 2012 and am pursuing my Masters degree currently through Capella university. I am excited to be working with the students and staff and to build great relationships with both throughout my time here.

Christine Spina, Secondary Teacher

Hi! My name is Christine Spina. I was born and raised in Jersey City/Bayonne. I graduated from Jersey City State College (now New Jersey City University) with a Bachelors’s Degree in Special Education. I taught for 2 years at St. Joseph’s School for the Blind in Jersey City. I moved to the shore area 20 years ago to begin working at Alpha School. The best part of working at Alpha so long has been working with the students and watching them grow through the years as well as the lifelong friendships I have made. I am a proud mom of 9-year-old soon to be 10-year-old triplets, Nicholas, Elizabeth and Robert. I love spending time with my kids and cheering on their sporting teams! When I have free time I enjoy reading, walking, going out to eat, and going to Broadway shows.

Kirsten Earle, Secondary Teacher

Hi! My name is Ms. Kirsten Earle, and I have been teaching at Alpha School since 2021. Previously, I taught preschool and then spent many years working for the Early Intervention Program as both a teacher and a social worker. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree in Teaching from Monmouth University. I have completed my graduate work at Stockton University and earned my Standard Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TOSD) Endorsement. In addition, I hold Elementary and Psychology teaching certificates, as well as a Certificate in Social Work.

Working at Alpha School is a perfect fit for me. Not only do I have many years of experience working with children with special needs, but it is also very close to my heart—one of my two amazing daughters is on the Autism Spectrum and has mild learning disabilities.

Both of my young adult daughters, Jenna and Molly, and our goofy dog, Zoey, live at home with me. For leisure, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, going to the beach, boating, and going on road trips. Exploring every state in the country is on my bucket list.

Shannon Janicki, Teacher

Hi! I am Ms. Shannnon, an eccentric and charismatic teacher who uses love and compassion to help children overcome obstacles and accomplish their goals. I was raised in Lakewood, NJ, by my loving parents, alongside my two brothers and one sister. Compelled to help children with special needs, I earned my degree in special education from Georgian Court University with a Teacher of the Handicapped certification.

I began my career as a paraprofessional at Lakewood High School in a medically fragile class. In my nearly 20 years in the field, I have worked with a wide range of populations, including students who are medically fragile, have behavioral or emotional disabilities, Down syndrome, or autism. During my college years, I completed observation hours at the Alpha School, and years later, when the opportunity arose to run my own classroom here, I happily accepted.

My lessons focus on building the skills students need to navigate real-life situations they will encounter. By using demonstrations and creating a vibrant classroom atmosphere, I also work to support my colleagues in building rapport with students, which allows us to foster independence and communication. I treat my students with the same respect and care I would give my own children, and I encourage them to always strive for excellence.

Jessica Duda, Secondary Teacher

I am a Secondary Teacher at Alpha School and have been in education for six years. I graduated from Monmouth University in 2017 with my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Teacher of Students with Disabilities certification. I have a personal connection to this field, as my youngest sister is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This has fueled my passion for encouraging and helping students grow—not only academically, but in all aspects of life. I am truly honored to work with the students here at Alpha School.

When I’m not working with these wonderful students, I enjoy spending time with my two dogs, being with my family and friends, or curling up with a good book and a nice cup of tea or coffee.

Maria Decker, Secondary Teacher

Hello! My name is Maria Decker. I am a special education teacher at the Alpha School. I graduated from Georgian Court University with a BS in Psychology. I also have two teaching certificates, one in Elementary Education and one in Special Education. My teaching experience began in an alternative high school as a maternity leave replacement. From there I went on to teach fifth grade at the Christa McAuliffe School in Jackson. I took a 10 year break from teaching when I had my first daughter. After being a stay-at-home mom to my two beautiful girls, I returned to teaching in Toms River where I was a resource teacher for Language Arts.

I recently took a break from teaching in the public school, but I missed working with children. That's when I found Alpha School. I've only been here a short time but I can say that working with students at this school is extremely rewarding. I look forward to meeting and working with students and their families to help them be successful in every way possible.

In my free time I love to cook, bake, workout and spend quality time with my family and friends.

Gina Piro, Secondary Teacher

Hi! My name is Gina Piro. I am a special education teacher at the Alpha School. For the past 18 years, I have been a NYC public school teacher in Brooklyn. Over those 18 years, I taught elementary education and special education. I was also the reading and math coach who focused on curriculum instruction for grades Pre-K through 5th grade. I have my master's degree in special education, and I'm triple certified in NJ. I have my P-3 certification, K-5 certification, and my Teacher of Students with Disabilities certification. I have my beautiful 9-year-old daughter and decided to find employment closer to home since I'm a NJ resident.

I choose the Alpha School because it is a great fit for me. Not only do I have many years of experience working with children with special needs but it hits close to my heart. My daughter has mild learning disabilities that she struggles with. I understand from a parent's perspective what it means to have a child with learning disabilities. My husband, my daughter Adrianna, and our adorable little dog, Suzie, live at home with me. For leisure, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, going to the beach, and going on vacations. I'm looking forward to meeting and working with all of you!

Sara Stockton, Art Teacher

Hello. My name is Sara Stockton and I am the art teacher at the Alpha School. I joined this exceptional school community in November of 2016. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Douglass College at Rutgers University in 1997. I received my Teacher of Art certificate from Georgian Court University and my Teacher of the Handicapped certificate from New Jersey City University. I was a paraprofessional and an Art Teacher for a combination of 9 years and took a 10-year break to stay home to be with my two daughters. I love every day at the Alpha School. The students are such a big part of my life and the people I work with are caring, dedicated and unlike any others. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my daughters, my sister and my cousins as well as friends. My favorite pastimes include going to the beach, cooking and drawing.

Jess Abrams – Music Teacher

Hi! I'm Jess, the music teacher at Alpha School. I have been here since February 2024. I am also a professor at Bergen Community College and taught in a public school in North Jersey for 10 years. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Music from Ramapo College of New Jersey, a Master's Degree in Administration from Caldwell University and a NJ Teacher Certification from Rutgers University.

I love having the opportunity to work with all the students at Alpha School; watching them grow and appreciate music in new ways. They amaze me every day and always blow me away at the school concerts!

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, playing drums or singing for multiple bands, and spending as much time on the water as possible!

Erin Frank – STEM Teacher

Hi! My name is Erin Frank I am the STEM teacher at Alpha School. I started my Journey at Alpha in 2018 as a paraprofessional, then a classroom teacher and now the STEM teacher! In STEM the students will have a chance to learn science, technology, engineering and mathematics through fun, engaging, and hands on lessons. I am so excited to explore, imagine and innovate with the students at Alpha! I love teaching the students and working with the dedicated staff at Alpha school. In my free time I enjoy running, going to the beach, playing with my dog and spending time with family and friends!

Geoff Szeto, Teacher

Hi! My name is Geoff and I am a Special Education Teacher at Alpha School. I love creating a fun and nurturing environment so students look forward to coming to school. I take pride in teaching students' self-acceptance, self-love, respect for others, and the importance of being authentic. I teach real life skills to deal with real world problems. As an advocate for lifelong learning and independence, I focus on teaching life skills that extend beyond the classroom. From basic daily routines to practical job-related skills, I equip my students with the tools they need to navigate the world confidently.

Samantha Soto, Health and Adaptive Physical Education Teacher

Hello, my name is Samantha Soto, and I joined Alpha School in the summer of 2025. I am a proud graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in (K-12) Physical Education with a minor in School Health.
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to teach across various school districts and work with students of all grade levels. This diverse experience has deepened my commitment to inclusive education and allowed me to develop a versatile teaching style that meets the unique needs of every learner.
I have a strong passion for Adaptive Physical Education and am dedicated to creating engaging, supportive, and accessible learning environments. I believe that physical education plays a vital role in developing not only motor skills but also self-confidence, social interaction, and lifelong health habits. My goal is to ensure that every student—regardless of ability—feels valued, capable, and inspired to move. Every student deserves the chance to succeed, and I take pride in designing creative, supportive, and engaging lessons that help make that possible.

Beverly Holborow, Related Services Coordinator and Speech Therapist

I began working at the Alpha School in September 1996 as a staff Speech-Language Pathologist and Related Services Specialist. As the Related Services Specialist, I am responsible for coordinating Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy for all the students that attend the Alpha School. In addition, I act as a liaison between the therapy staff and the administration. I provide information regarding our therapy programs to parents and case managers looking to place students at our school. I collaborate with therapists from our sister schools, Harbor School and Gateway School, to gain new information and ideas to keep our therapy program dynamic. As a staff Speech-Language Pathologist, I provide speech and language therapy for Elementary through High School aged students. I have mentored and supervised many students from various undergraduate and graduate programs in Speech Pathology. I developed a dog therapy program here at Alpha School. My therapy dog Vegas works with students in individual speech therapy sessions as well as larger class group sessions. Additionally, she assists students experiencing anxiety and emotional difficulties. I have attended numerous continuing education courses in the areas of augmentative communication, oral-motor/feeding and autism. I received formal training in the use of PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets) method. In 2002 I received the Ruth K. Newman award for Excellence for teaching special needs students.

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Kean University in May of 1992. I went on to receive my Master of Arts degree in Speech Pathology from Kean University in August of 1993. My first job experience was as a Speech-Language Pathologist at the Children’s Center of Monmouth County. I have worked for a private practice in Monmouth County as well as for several agencies throughout Ocean County.

Denise E. Kumpel, M.A. CCC/SLP, Speech and Language Pathologist

I have been a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist since 2002. I initially earned an A.A degree through Ocean County College and a B.S degree in Speech from Stockton University, before going on to acquire an M.A. degree from The College of New Jersey in the area of Speech and Language. I was employed on an emergency certified basis in a special needs school in N.J., while continuing to pursue my education. Following the completion of my Master’s Degree, I joined the Alpha School family, and have provided speech and language services to children and students from the ages of Preschool-21. I primarily service the High School students at Alpha, and enjoy focusing on increasing social and pragmatic skills, and further transferring those skills over into community settings. In addition, I work for Early Intervention servicing the birth-3 population, and also do part-time private therapy work as well. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with and taking walks with my dog, drawing, exercising, and cooking/baking.

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Kean University in May of 1992. I went on to receive my Master of Arts degree in Speech Pathology in August of 1993. My first job experience was as a Speech-Language Pathologist at the Children’s Center of Monmouth County. I have worked for a private practice in Monmouth County as well as for several agencies throughout Ocean County. I currently have a part-time private practice.

Jessica L. Gurry M.S. CCC-SLP, Speech and Language Pathologist

Hi! J I am Jess Gurry! I am one of the speech therapists here at Alpha School! At a young age, I knew I wanted to do something to help others. I was a rather social child growing up and realized that I loved making connections and communicating with others, so I attended East Stroudsburg University and graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology in 2009 and with my Master’s degree in SLP in 2011. I dabbled with out-patient rehab and public-school positions; however, a private school setting is where my heart lies. Before obtaining my Speech–Language Specialist position at Alpha School in 2013, I was a paraprofessional during my college breaks at a Children Center of Monmouth County and School for Children (now Hawkswood School). I really love my job and thoroughly enjoy what I do! I love my students and treat them as if they were my own. I try to make therapy fun and engaging! I am not sure who is more excited when goals are reached! My students definitely know when I am so proud of them! To me, there is no greater super power than being able to give my kids a "voice" and help them communicate with their families and connect with their friends and community.

In my free time, I love to hang with my family and friends, make Cricut crafts, listen to music, have dance parties in my kitchen, and go to the beach! I am also an 80-year-old at heart and obsessed with Hallmark Movies, so I volunteer at the Hallmark Christmas Con every year in Edison- since they started in 2019!

Tami Zemel, Speech Therapist

Hi! My name is Tami Zemel, and I am a speech-language pathologist at the Alpha School. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Gratz College and my master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Western Kentucky University. I joined Alpha School in March 2025 and have truly enjoyed working with our wonderful students and dedicated staff.

I work closely with classroom teachers, staff, and fellow therapists to provide comprehensive, functional therapy that enables our students to communicate effectively throughout their daily routines. I’m passionate about supporting each student’s unique strengths and challenges, and I feel privileged to be part of their growth and progress.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, cooking, and traveling.

Tziporah Silberman, Speech Therapist

Hi! My name is Tziporah Silberman, and I am a speech language pathologist at the Alpha School. I received my bachelor's degree from Excelsior College, and my master's degree from the University of Cincinnati. I first joined the Alpha school in 2020 while covering a leave, and am very excited to be back! I have worked as a speech therapist in multiple settings, including private practices, public schools, private schools and hospitals. My favorite thing about being a therapist is helping my students find a voice, watching them progress and making a difference in their lives! I feel very fortunate to be able to work in such a setting!

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends cooking, baking, and hosting parties. I also enjoy spending time with my son- hence I can say that my life is one big speech therapy session!

Emily Garcia, Occupational Therapist

Hi! My name is Emily Garcia, and I am an Occupational Therapist at the Alpha School. I received my bachelor's degree from Montclair University, and my master's degree from Salus University. I am passionate about working with the pediatric population. I have worked as an occupational therapist in public schools, early intervention, and an outpatient pediatric clinic. My favorite thing about being a therapist is helping my students reach their goals and increase their independence, whether it is in functional living skills, fine motor skills, pre-vocational skills, etc. I enjoy helping them reach their fullest potential. I am grateful to work with such amazing students!

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family (especially my niece and nephews), baking, and spending time at the beach.

Kelsey Espenhorst, Occupational Therapist

Hi!  My name is Kelsey Espenhorst and I am an Occupational Therapist at the Alpha School.  I attended Ithaca College where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Science in 2021, and Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy in 2022.  During my time at Ithaca, I had the privilege of playing on the Women’s Soccer Team and spending a semester abroad in Australia.  Prior to joining Alpha in 2023, I worked at a nursing home where I still pick up shifts on a per diem basis.  I am passionate about providing OT services across all life stages, enabling people to achieve optimal independence.  In my free time I enjoy going to the beach, trying new restaurants, working out, and traveling with my family and friends.

Lynette Huth, Occupational Therapist

Hello! My name is Lynette Huth, and I am an Occupational Therapist here at the Alpha School of Jackson, NJ. I have been a licensed Occupational Therapist since 1992, earning my Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of New Hampshire. I have worked with children and young adults in a variety of settings including early intervention, public school, an inpatient hospital environment, and a center specializing in those diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Since earning my AOTA Fieldwork Educator Certification in October of 2010, I have supervised numerous students working to earn their degree in Occupational Therapy. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive professional experience while specializing in pediatrics within the school setting. As a member of the Alpha School community, I am dedicated to supporting our students with diverse learning abilities, while working to enhance their functional abilities and levels of independence. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work in a collaborative manner along with teachers, paraprofessionals, parents, caregivers, administrators, and other therapy department staff members to serve each student here at the Alpha School most optimally.

Kristin Petosa, Physical Therapist

Hello! My name is Kristin Petosa and I am the physical therapist at Alpha school. I am a graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor’s in Exercise Physiology and a minor in Psychology and from the College of Staten Island (CUNY) with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I have been a physical therapist for over 12 years, mostly working with children. My background includes work in outpatient orthopedics (adult and pediatric), early intervention and school based physical therapy. I have worked with people from 0-over 100 years of age! In the PT room, around the whole building and grounds of Alpha School, we will work hard to accomplish our physical therapy goals, while also incorporating some fun and motivating activities! I am a lifelong New Jersey resident, living in Monmouth County with my husband, 2 daughters, son and new puppy! I love spending time with my family, being outdoors and traveling to new places.

Kevin Nussbaum, Social Worker

I am the Social Worker at Alpha School and a licensed Social Worker in the state of New Jersey. I earned my undergraduate degree in psychology and political science from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY, and my Master’s degree in Social Work from Hunter College School of Social Work in New York.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a solution-focused approach that empowers clients to challenge unhealthy thought processes and adopt more effective behavior patterns. Through talk therapy, therapeutic games and activities, and “homework” that allows students to practice healthy coping skills outside of our sessions, I help students work toward their social-emotional goals.

I also take a holistic approach that integrates the mind, body, and spirit to support students in managing anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, and a variety of other challenges. I often incorporate coping strategies such as deep breathing techniques, guided imagery, yoga, meditation, and breath work. By combining CBT with holistic therapeutic practices, I aim to help students achieve their goals while tapping into their natural, innate strengths.

Katherine Frustieri, Job Coach

I started working at the Alpha School in September of 1998. I was a Para-professional for three years in the High School before taking on the position of Job Coach. I take our students, ages 16-21 to a variety of local businesses for job sampling. Our students volunteer for these work experiences. I train the students on how to complete the tasks and appropriate social skills needed for job placement. Since acquiring this position, I have added several new businesses that participate in our program. I believe that my enthusiasm for this program translates to our student’s performance and their eagerness while on the job sites. I also run the weekly pizza program and the annual Mother’s Day plant sale. All proceeds are used for the end of the year luncheon to reward our students for all their hard work.

Jennifer Trause, CPI Trainer

Hi, I’m Jennifer Trause, and I am on the Behavior Team as well as the certified CPI (Crisis Prevention and Intervention) trainer at Alpha School in Jackson, NJ, where I work with students with a wide range of disabilities. I train the staff in verbal intervention, nonviolent crisis intervention, advanced physical skills, and advanced disengagement techniques. This includes problem-solving and decision-making skills to recognize the level of risk and apply the most appropriate verbal and/or physical techniques. I bring over seven years of experience in special education, along with 10 years of working in daycare settings, which have both helped shape my skills and approach to individualized support. For me, empathy and patience are essential, and I’m committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment where every student feels valued.

Whitney Lott, BCBA

Hi! My name is Whitney Lott, and I am the BCBA here at Alpha School. I received my Bachelor's degree from Centenary University and my Masters in Education in Autism and ABA from Monmouth University. I joined Alpha School in November 2024 and I am excited to work with such a dedicated and collaborative team. I have worked with students with disabilities in multiple settings, including home, school and clinic. My favorite part of being a BCBA is the opportunity to make an individualized and positive impact with each student. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, going for walks with my dog, and going to the beach.

Jessica Gross, School Nurse

Hello! My name is Jessica, and I’m the School Nurse here at Alpha School. I joined the Alpha family in July 2024 and am truly excited to work alongside such a dedicated and supportive team. I graduated from Ocean County College with my Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in 2016, and went on to finish my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at Chamberlain University in 2018. With 8 years of experience as a registered nurse in a hospital setting, including most recently 2 years in the ICU, I bring a solid foundation of medical knowledge and a compassionate approach to caring for our students. My focus is on creating a safe, nurturing space where every child feels supported and cared for, ensuring that health and well-being are at the forefront of everything we do.

Jessica Lemma, School Nurse

My name is Jessica Lemma. I am the school nurse at Alpha School and our sister school, Harbor School, in Eatontown. I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2018 from the Medical University of South Carolina. Throughout my nursing career, I have gained experience in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and school environments. I am committed to promoting the health and well-being of all students and supporting their success both in and out of the classroom. I am excited to be here and look forward to a great year ahead!

Kelli DiGiacomo, Paraprofessional Coach

Hi! My name is Kelli Digiacomo. I have been at Alpha School since 2004. Throughout my career, I have worked with students across a range of disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, speech and language impairments, and emotional and behavioral disorders. I provide guidance and support to paraprofessionals—educators or aides who assist teachers and work directly with students in various educational settings. Providing ongoing mentorship and support to paraprofessionals as they work with students, addressing challenges and helping them navigate their roles.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of working at Alpha School is the ability to make a significant, positive impact on students’ lives. Helping children with disabilities achieve their goals, no matter how small, provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose.