Jeanne Dwyer, Director of Resource and Learning Support

Jeanne Dwyer is a special educator and an assistive technology specialist with over 30 years of experience working with children with diverse learning needs. Recently, she was the Coordinator of Assistive Technology at Johns Hopkins University, Center for Technology in Education (CTE) for 17 years. Ms. Dwyer managed the Maryland Assistive Technology Network (MATN) which provides educators and families information on the most up-to-date assistive technology policies, practices, and devices. As part of her work at Johns Hopkins University, Ms. Dwyer offered professional development, built tools to foster the consideration and use of assistive technology to inform policy. Ms. Dwyer spearheaded the revision of the consideration of AT in the statewide Maryland online Individual Education Program (IEP).

Ms. Dwyer is a council member of The Maryland Enabling Technology First State. This council will align Maryland as a leader in ensuring assistive technology (AT) access to individuals with disabilities. The initiative will establish a system of supports for people with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities so that access to and use of AT becomes a first priority when evaluating needs for community supports and independence.  She is also a board member of the Maryland Assistive Technology Program, Baltimore, Maryland.

Ms. Dwyer received her undergraduate degree from the Franciscan University of Steubenville and her graduate degree in Special Education, with a graduate certificate in assistive technology for communication and social interaction from the Johns Hopkins University.

Maureen Rossi, RLS Specialist

Mrs. Rossi is a seasoned resource specialist, having worked at other area Catholic schools before joining Our Lady of Mercy. She has spent her entire career in Catholic schools, considering it a vocation. She is a certified middle school math teacher and has considerable experience with including students with intellectual disabilities and special training in reading instruction for children with dyslexia.

Alli Richardson, RLS Teacher

Mrs. Richardson has worked in the Archdiocese of Washington for ten years specializing in early childhood intervention for students with learning and intellectual disabilities. She is certified in elementary education and has a Master’s Degree in Reading. Mrs. Richardson has spent her entire profession working in Catholic schools and believes in teaching as an Image of Christ.