Since 1974, ASAH has served private special education schools and agencies in New Jersey, ensuring the highest standards of service excellence for students and youth with disabilities.
With a focus on the needs of students, ASAH works to foster partnerships between its members, local school districts and local communities. We know that these collaborations not only enhance the quality of education programs, they ensure that students with disabilities are served in the least restrictive setting, and have the greatest chance of returning students to public school settings.
While providing information and referral to anyone seeking appropriate placement of individuals with special needs, ASAH also advocates directly for individuals with special needs and their families.
ASAH also promotes programs and policies that protect and enhance the well-being of individuals with disabilities and their families, especially those that impact or interface with their education.
ASAH STAFF
John J. Mulholland, Jr., Executive Director
Stephanie Summers, External Affairs Director
Gianna McClosky, Program Manager
Donna Gomez, Administrative Assistant
Agency Publications
- The Parents’ Connection, a newsletter that reaches over 10,000 parents twice annually.
- Promising Futures/Inside ASAH, a newsletter that reaches professionals and school district personnel twice annually.
- A Statewide Directory of Private Special Education Programs and Services in New Jersey.
- ASAH Outcomes Report of Private School Special Education #23, 2021-2022.
Parent Outreach
- A toll-free Parent Assistance Line to help parents understand their rights and identify appropriate services.
- A Speakers Bureau for parent groups to access experts on topics in special education.
- Sponsors New Jersey’s most prestigious annual conference on special education attended by over 1,500 teachers, school administrators, parent, and policy-makers.
- Sponsors Regional Conferences on special education.
- Sponsors a statewide seminar series for educators.
Ensuring Excellence
- Conducts outcome analysis and other studies to ensure quality of services.
- Provides a forum for member agencies on both a statewide and regional basis to share expertise.
- Creates the Professional Development Plan used by participating private schools and approved by the New Jersey Department of Education.
- Celebrating Accomplishments of Students and Educators.
- Sponsors Special Education Week in New Jersey
- Sponsors an Annual Student Art Contest as part of Special Education Week.
- Presents “Educator of the Year,” “Paraprofessional of the Year,” “Legislator of the Year.” “Humanitarian of the Year,” and “Legacy of Caring” Awards.
- Presents “Innovation in Special Education Awards.”
