Summit families of children with disabilities will have new weekend and weekday programming options this fall after The Connection hired Jonathan Leonardi as its new Adaptive Program Coordinator.
Leonardi, who started Wednesday, July 29, brings more than 20 years in special education leadership. At Mt. Carmel Guild Academy, he oversees curriculum and instruction for students with autism and multiple disabilities, developing individualized learning systems and K–12 curricula that support both academic achievement and functional life skills. He has also served as a dean, assistant principal, and supervisor of curriculum and instruction.
The hire fills a gap.
"His vision aligns perfectly with our mission of creating opportunities for every individual to learn, grow, and belong," Executive Director Chris Bonner said in a statement published July 28.
Leonardi will work alongside Jessica Fascenelli Weisenbach, the nonprofit's senior director of programming and membership, to build out the adaptive track.
Two new classes launch this fall:
- The Sensory Collective (ages 4–12) integrates art, music, and movement to support emotional regulation, communication, and self-expression through structured yet flexible activities.
- Independence in Motion (ages 10–15) builds functional skills, social communication, and independence through guided routines and real-world practice in a highly individualized setting.
Fall classes run Tuesday, September 8 through Wednesday, November 25. Registration opens Tuesday, August 11 at 9:30 a.m. at theconnectionnj.org or by emailing [email protected].
The Connection, a women-led nonprofit at 79 Maple St. in Summit, serves roughly 5,000 members across Union, Essex, and Morris counties, including families in New Providence, Berkeley Heights, and Chatham.
The organization is also recruiting volunteers to help with adaptive classes on weekends and Monday afternoons. Interested residents can reach the program at [email protected].
