Cheryl Porter-Avino, an experienced social worker and child study team member, has joined The Calais School as its’ new director of admissions. Mrs. Avino has a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work from Fordham University. She is also a licensed social worker in the State of New Jersey.

“Most of my career has been spent working at private school education and a short time in public,” Mrs. Avino said. “I’m looking forward to being back in private school special education working with students and families-that’s where my heart lies!”

Mrs. Avino has worked extensively with Animal Assisted Therapy (AA) and was a part of a facility dog team working specifically with a certified service dog assisting students and staff. “I am so happy to be in an educational setting that is dedicated to animal assisted therapies, as it makes a noted difference in students and staff alike,” she said. “I’m looking forward to meeting everyone.”

Mrs. Avino recently worked as a member of the child study team for the Ramapo Indian Hills School District. Prior to that, she worked as a school social worker at the ECLC of New Jersey in Ho Ho Kus.