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the opportunity to be more self-sufficient on ways to improve. There are four • What tools do we have in our
and advocate for their needs as much questions that we consider periodically. toolbox to help this student
as they are able, so that they can carry We ask you to reflect on these questions progress?
over the skills learned when they go and consider them on your own journey: In closing, we would like to thank our
home and have the confidence when • How can I do less, and have our district staff and administration for their
they go into the real world. Our students students do more? Or Am I giving support, positivity, and willingness to
and staff are thriving. this student enough time to show follow us on this journey.
me what he/she can do?
Things to Consider • What does the data say?
As we continue our goal to promote • Where or when are there times
independence for our special education of the day that I may allow this
students, we are always reflecting student to shine on his/her own?

References:
Field, S., Martin, J., Miller, R., Ward, M., & Wehmeyer, M. (1998a). Self- Determination for Person With Disabilities: A Position
Statement of the Division on Career Development and Transition. Career Development for Exceptional Individuals, 21, 113-128.
Halloran, W. D. (1993). Transition Services Requirement: Issues, Implications, Challenge. In R. C. Eaves & P. J. McLaugh
(Eds.), Recent Advances in Special Education and Rehabilitation (pp. 210 -224). Boston: Andover Medical Publishers.
Sarason, S.B (1990). The Predictable Failure of Educational Reform. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass

About the Authors
Dr. Dana Blair is currently the Director of Special Services for the Marlboro Township Public Schools.
Dr. Blair is a graduate of Rider University, with a B.A in Secondary Education and English, a Masters in
Educational Leadership from Wilmington University, and a Doctorate in Curriculum, Instruction, Learning,
and Leadership, from Northeastern University. Prior to her work as a Director, she served as a Vice
Principal in New Jersey. She began her educational career as a middle and high school English teacher.
Her experience in the field of instructional leadership and research has focused on inclusive education,
emotional intelligence, and social justice within education. You can follow her on twitter @DrDanaBlair
Maryelizabeth Tirone is currently the Supervisor of Special Services for the Marlboro Township Public
School district. Mrs. Tirone is a graduate of Monmouth University with a B.A. in Elementary Education,
and a Masters in Special Education as well as a Masters Autism Studies. Prior to her work as a
supervisor of Special Education, Mrs. Tirone has spent the past 13 years working in the field of special
education with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder and creating inclusive opportunities for all students.
For many years, Maryelizabeth coached a Special Olympics track team and working with the Daisy
Program providing leisure/ social activities for individuals with disabilities with ages ranging from 11- 46.
Annemarie W. Hanley is a nationally certified speech-language specialist and a board-certified behavior
analyst. Mrs. Hanley has 18 years experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
ranging in age from 3 years to adulthood. Mrs. Hanley is currently a behavior specialist in the Marlboro
Township School District in Marlboro, NJ. Previously, Mrs. Hanley earned her bachelor’s degree from
Richard Stockton State College in 2000, a masters degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Kean
University in 2002, applied behavior analysis coursework from Rutgers University in 2009, and masters
in educational leadership from Montclair State University in 2016.
Jaclyn Little is a certified teacher and board certified behavior analyst. Mrs. Little has 15 years experience
working with individuals with developmental disabilities, starting her career as a special education teacher
before transferring to her current role. Mrs. Little is currently a behavior specialist in the Marlboro Township
School District in Marlboro, NJ. Previously, Mrs. Little earned her bachelor’s degree from University of
Delaware in 2005 in Elementary Education (K-8) with Mathematics Specialization and concentration in
Special Education and a minor in Disabilities Studies, masters degree in Educational Leadership from
Capella University in 2014, and a certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism from Rutgers University in 2014.
Samantha Defilippo is a nationally certified school psychologist and a board certified behavior analyst.
Ms. Defilippo has 8 years experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, starting
her career as an aide for a nonprofit after school program, and transitioning to a position as a school
psychologist, and then BCBA. Ms. Defilippo is currently a school psychologist and behavior specialist in the
Marlboro Township School District in Marlboro, NJ. Previously, Ms. Defilippo earned her bachelor’s degree
in psychology in 2013, master's degree in school psychology in 2014, and certificate of advanced graduate
study in 2016 all at Georgian Court University. Ms. Defilippo is currently enrolled in the doctor of psychology (Psy.D)
program at Georgian Court University.

Educational Viewpoints -34- Spring 2020