Resource
Resource Programs
At Troy Hills School, we have the following Special Education programs which include In Class Support and Resource Replacement for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEP).
In Class Support is an instructional strategy in which the special education teacher provides services within the general education class. The benefits of this model include small group lessons with two teachers as well as differentiated instruction. In conjunction with the general education teacher, the special education teacher helps to bolster the students’ independence and confidence.
Resource Replacement is an instructional strategy in which the special education teacher pulls the students from the general education classroom to provide small group instruction in a resource room. The benefits of this model include appropriate repetition and reinforcement. The resource room offers fewer distractions, as well as supplementary instruction which can include working on basic skills.
The advantages of both of these supports is to tailor instruction towards individual needs of the students with IEPs while providing modifications and accommodations.
Mrs. Longa
Hello! My name is Jolaine Longa and this is my third year as a Resource teacher at Troy Hills Elementary School. I have been an educator in Parsippany for 25 years and I am certified to teach both Special Education and Elementary Education. I graduated from MSU with my degree in Elementary/Early Childhood Education. Then went on to further my education at Jersey City State University and earned my certification in Special Education.
As a child, growing up in a family of educators, I knew at a young age that teaching was my passion. In addition to having this calling, I always possessed a true love for dancing. I taught dance for many years prior to pursuing my career as an educator. I frequently share my enthusiasm for dancing with students. Occasionally, they may even come home and share with you that they were dancing at school.
In addition to my rewarding career as an educator, I have an amazing family. I have been married for 21 years to my husband, Don, and I am a proud mother of two teenage children, AJ and Alexa. I also have a dog who is a 6 year old Beagle mix who loves to spend most of his days chasing the chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits in the yard.
As a teacher, my goal is to instill a passion for learning within my students while providing them with an educational environment that is encouraging and positive.
Looking forward to an amazing school year filled with learning opportunities, smiles, and fun.
Mrs. Marchesano
Hello Friends and Family,
I am Mrs. Marchesano, a K-2 resource teacher here at Troy Hills. My education background consists of attending both the colleges of St. Elizabeth and Kean University. I have received a degree in Psychology as well as my teaching certifications in Elementary and Special Education. I started my teaching career working at a preschool in Chester, NJ, from there I went on to teach for over 15 years in Newark, NJ. Now I am lucky enough to be working in a district that I live in and that my daughter attends. Outside of Troy Hills School, I like reading and being around family and friends. Most of all I LOVE watching my 10 year old daughter grow and that she still wants to spend time with her mommy.
Mrs. Menadier
My name is Renee Menadier and I am co-teaching math in Ms. O’Toole’s class this year at Troy Hills School. I have been teaching in Parsippany for 12 years. I graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, and proceeded to earn my teaching certification from William Paterson University. After graduating from college, I worked as an aide in a private school for students with severe disabilities. This is where I found my love of teaching, and my passion for helping children. I knew immediately that I wanted to be a special education teacher.
As an educator, my goal is to make learning fun for my students because I know that when they are relaxed and confident, they will be more successful. I use my experience and expertise to reach all learners, build relationships, and support them in whatever way they need. I enjoy spending my free time with my family, including my husband, my son, and my daughter. We love supporting the New York Red Bulls and also cheering on our children during their own soccer games. I love to read, exercise, and garden.
Ms. Visoskas
Hello! I am Miss Visoskas and I am a co-teacher for grades 2 & 4. I currently co-teach second grade with Mrs. Moore for Language Arts and Math. Also, I am co-teaching fourth grade with Mrs. Piccirillo for Language Arts. This is third-year teaching at Troy Hills School, as well as my third year co-teaching with Mrs. Moore. I graduated from Centenary University with a degree in Elementary Education and a Certificate for Teacher of Students with Disabilities. I am currently in graduate school at Centenary University for Educational Leadership. I also have 30 hours of training through the Institute of Multisensory Education.
One of my favorite things about being a teacher is when students have an ‘aha’ moment and they are able to understand a skill that is being taught. I look forward to coming into school every day and seeing all of my students, having meaningful conversations with them, teaching them new skills, and being someone they can count on and talk to.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and chocolate lab. I love to read, go on hikes, and watch sports.