Special Services Homepage
Welcome
Welcome to the Department of Special Education at Paterson Public Schools, where our mission is to provide high-quality, individualized education to students with special needs, ages 3 to 21. We are committed to...
Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Special Education is to provide a supportive, inclusive, and equitable learning environment where students with disabilities are empowered to reach their fullest potential. Through individualized instruction, collaborative partnerships with families, and access to a continuum of services, we are committed to fostering academic achievement, social-emotional development, and lifelong learning for every student.
Vision Statement
We envision a school district where all students with disabilities are valued, challenged, and supported as capable learners. Our vision is to create inclusive schools that embrace diversity, ensure access to high-quality education in the least restrictive environment, and prepare students to become independent, confident, and contributing members of their communities.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)
Paterson Public School’s policy on Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying is one of the district’s top priorities. In January 2011, Governor Christie signed the “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights” and in doing so, New Jersey now has the toughest anti-bullying law in the nation.
Student Attendance
At Paterson Public Schools, we believe that every day in school matters. Consistent attendance is one of the most important factors in helping your child succeed in school—and it all starts with being present, on time, and ready to learn.
Disability Flyer
Additional Resources
Non-pub 192/193 Services
Auxiliary and Remedial Services for Nonpublic Schools. New Jersey's Chapter 192 programs and Chapter 193 programs are provided to eligible students enrolled full-time in nonpublic elementary and secondary schools in New Jersey.
NJDOE Office of Special Education
The Office of Special Education has a responsibility under federal statute and regulations to operate a system of general supervision that monitors the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA) by local education agencies (LEAs).
Report Bullying
Create A Report, Explore Culture And Climate or learn more about HIB?
Division of Developmental Disabilities
Resources for New Jersey residents with disabilities, caregivers, parents, and advocates.
Special Education Supervisors & Coordinators Roster
Our Districts Special Education Supervisors & Coordinators' school assignments and email contacts with additional resources.
McKinney Vento Act
At Paterson Public Schools, we understand that families sometimes face unexpected challenges—and we want you to know that you are not alone. If you or your child are experiencing housing instability, our district is here to provide support, stability, and access to education through the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Cheryl D. Coy
Assistant Superintendent of
Special Education and Services
Office: 973-321-0431
ccoy@paterson.k12.nj.us
Starr Morrison
Confidential Secretary to the Assistant Superintendent of
Special Education and Services
Office: 973-321-0677
morrisons@paterson.k12.nj.us
Dr. Kaara Lydner
Interim Director
Office: 973-321-0688
klydner@paterson.k12.nj.us
Keya Romney
Director
Office: 973-321-2451
kromney@paterson.k12.nj.us
Candice Vargas
Director
Office: 973-321-0637
cvargas@paterson.k12.nj.us
Shani Gerald
Administrative Assistant for Directors of Special Education
Office: 973-321-2241
shagerald@paterson.k12.nj.us
Natalia Frazier-Thompson
Deputy Director of Compulsory Student Attendance
Office: 973-321-0687
nfrazierthompson@paterson.k12.nj.us
Jannilka DeLeon
SEMI/EASY IEP Coordinator
Office: 973-321-2365
jroca@paterson.k12.nj.us
Sabrina Tigney-Gerald
Coordinator of Special Education
Home Instruction
Office: 973-321-0731
sgerald@paterson.k12.nj.us
Zenaida Diaz
Coordinator of Special Education
OOD Contracts and Transportation
Office: 973-321-2396
zdiaz@paterson.k12.nj.us
Crystal Cox-Tober
Coordinator of Transition Services for Students with Disabilities
Office: 973-321-0838
ccoxtober@paterson.k12.nj.us
Monique McKay
Coordinator of Harassment, Intimidation, & Bullying
Office: 973-321-0716
mmckay@paterson.k12.nj.us
Emily Walsh, BCBA
Coordinator of Behavior Analysts
Office: 973-321-2322
ewalsh@paterson.k12.nj.us
Monica Munoz
Student Records
Office: 973-321-0855
mmunoz@paterson.k12.nj.us