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    PIRT

    The primary role of the Preschool Intervention and Referral Team (PIRT) is to provide support and suggested interventions to teachers so that all children can succeed within the general education classroom.

    The Preschool Intervention and Referral Team members have a strong background and knowledge in early childhood education, child development, the district curriculum, and the Positive Behavior Support (PBS) program.

    The specialists on PIRT support classroom teachers in order to provide strategies for children who are exhibiting difficulty in the classroom as indicated through the screening process or the observation of the classroom teacher and instructional coach.

    The team provides support including written strategies for classroom staff, modeling strategies in the classroom when appropriate, providing professional development and providing consultation to classroom staff, parents, school nurses, administrators and instructional coaches.

    The members of the team, referred to as Preschool Intervention and Referral Specialists (PIRS) are: 

    Iris Ramos, is a social worker and early childhood educator.  Her specialty is working with families. Assigned sites: John Robert Lewis Early Childhood Center, Valley Settlement House, and Norjenes. Extension 52712

    Janice Torres, is an inclusion specialist with a strong background in language development.  Her expertise is in the development of  learning, fine motor, and communication skills.  Assigned site: MCDC (Montclair Child Development Center). Extension 52719

    Melissa Strelec, is an inclusion specialist. Her area of expertise is in child development, positive behavior support and fine motor skills. Assigned sites: Orange Early Childhood Center (OECC) and NEEMA Preschool of Orange. Extension 52716 

    Maria Adame, is an inclusion specialist with a strong background in Early Intervention. Her area of expertise is in child development, special education, and social-emotional learning. Assigned sites: Scholars Academy, Oakwood Avenue School, Heywood Avenue School, and Forest Street Community School. Extension 53201