CONTACT US
Key School-Based Contacts
Case Managers (CST Office) Location: Counseling Suite
Dr. David Velder - School Psychologist dvelder@somsd.k12.nj.us
Dr. Greg Speth - School Psychologist gspeth@somsd.k12.nj.us
Mrs. Nicole Nicosia - School Psychologist nnicosia@somsd.k12.nj.us
Mr. Leigh Carter - CST Social Worker Icarter@somsd.k12.nj.us
Mrs. Katherine Cifuentes - LDT-С kcifuent@somsd.k12.nj.us
Ms. Samantha Palmieri - LDT-C spalmier@somsd.k12.nj.us
Non-CST Social Workers Location: Counseling Suite
Ms. Ebony Connor econnor@somsd.k12.nj.us
Mr. Eric Stoudemire estoudem@somsd.k12.nj.us
Ms. Mutahannah Peacock mpeacock@somsd.k12.nj.us
Key District Contacts
Mrs. Kathleen Gesumaria Assistant Superintendent for Special Services kgesumar@somsd.k12.nj.us (973) 762-5600, ext. 1840
Mr. Timothy Franklin Supervisor of Special Education: 9-12+ tfrankli@somsd.k12.nj.us (973) 762-5600, ext. 1145 8
Department Secretaries
Ms. Noellia Juarez - ext. 1846
Ms. Lisa Padula - ext. 1220
Ms. Nosimot Nicholls - ext. 1845
*For all phone numbers, dial (973) 762 - 5600 followed by the extension
CONTACT TEACHERS FIRST
For academic concerns or classroom issues, parents should first reach out directly to their child's teacher. They are the first point of contact and can provide specific insights and solutions.
INVOLVE THE COUNSELOR
If further assistance is needed after speaking with the teacher, parents can reach out to their child's counselor. Counselors can offer guidance on academic planning, personal issues, and social-emotional support.
REACH OUT TO ADMINISTRATION
For unresolved issues or administrative matters, parents should contact the school administration. This includes the principal and assistant principals, who can address broader school policies and concerns.
The Communication Protocol helps families know who to contact for different questions or concerns related to their child's special education services.
How to Use This Protocol:
Identify your question type, then contact the appropriate staff member. For homework or classroom concerns, contact the teacher. For IEP development or program placement, contact your child's case manager.
The Special Services Chain of Command provides a clear pathway for addressing concerns related to special education services.
❗Important❗:
Concerns should always be brought first to the person closest to the issue.