Introducing the classroom teachers . . .

Joy Casey – I began teaching at Jowonio in 1983, after completing my undergraduate degree in special education at Syracuse University. Over the years, I’ve had lots of different roles here, including resource teacher, lead classroom teacher, home-based teacher, graduate student supervisor (while in the doctoral program at S.U.), and administrative support teacher. My heart is truly in the classroom, and I’ve been teaching the youngest children for about 12 years now. At home, my daughter (Ana) is a freshman at the College of St. Rose in Albany, so I can certainly empathize with our families transitioning children to new places and people! My husband, Peter, is retired from Syracuse University, as well as his private practice as a psychologist. Our three-year-old German Shepherd keeps me healthy with lots of walks and hiking, and she’s gotten really good at maintaining her balance in a kayak! I’m blessed to have a great team in the classroom . . .

Lillian Ackerman – I’ve been a member of the Kangaroo team for the past six years. I’m also busy working on a degree in Human Services at Cazenovia College. I am mother to two sons who are in high school! One of my sons is identified as having special needs, so I feel I can understand the experience of families who share this path. In my spare time I like to hike, bike, read and play outside.