Spotlight Honorees
NAPSA publishes a Spotlight feature in our monthly TidBits. We hope this will promote excellence and increase networking and as we feature the outstanding professionals within the ranks of the members of NAPSA. If you’d like to recommend featuring a member you know in a future Spotlight segment, please submit by clicking here: https://forms.gle/KyeVYsrPgy4easyaA
May 2023
Employer: Monmouth County Vocational School District
Title: Director of School Counseling and Special Education
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Working with counselors, support staff, and administration organizing resources and services for students throughout the district. In addition, I have been fortunate to work with a dedicated staff committed to ensuring students are supported and advocated for.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The NAPSA Tidbits is something I always look forward to.
April 2023
Employer: Oregon City Schools
Title: Director of Special Education
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is working with teachers and parents to ensure the best future for our students with disabilities. Being able to observe the success students are feeling is the best feeling ever!
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
NAPSA provides access to current legislation and conversation that centers on assisting individuals with disabilities in the school environment. It also provides me with an invaluable support system when I need additional information to meet the needs of my students with disabilities and their families.
March 2023
Employer: East Central Ohio Educational Service Center
Title: Regional Director of Alternative Education
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my position is the opportunity to work alongside a dynamic group of students and adults. The population of youth that we educate is among the most at-risk and diverse in Ohio. We provide educational options to students who are court or privately placed in residential facilities or school placed in a day treatment environment due to mental health needs. Students enter our programs with significant and complex needs. My Executive Director, Eddie Joe Chanoski, has enabled me to serve in the capacity as Regional Director somewhat as an advocate for our students and to work with our partners and community as the bridge between the Resident District, Educating District, and the Facility. Through this collaborative framework, we build strong relationships with our residential providers, mental health providers, educational partners, and families. We center our work around building strong relationships with our students and build an understanding of their complex traumas, so we can enable them to become lifelong learners. Providing them with educational tools that will help them to be successful once they reintegrate back into the public education sector. I am humbled to have a great group of strong educational leaders who work tirelessly to ensure our students show academic, social-emotional, and relational growth. I enjoy watching the bonds they build with their teachers and seeing students who have never shown or felt any success in their school environment share with me their reading and math progress.
Last year, our program held a private graduation ceremony where I presented diplomas to 12 students. Knowing where those students were just nine months prior and how far they had come makes every battle worth the challenge.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The benefit I find to be of the most significant to my position from my NAPSA membership is the opportunity to maintain connections with other members. The opportunity to reach out and connect with other professionals in Student Support, trauma-informed care, and Student Services is invaluable. I also regularly visit the updated legislation pages for insight into current trends surrounding mental health and special education, legislation, and funding to ensure that I am kept current with information and topics that affect our department and students.
February 2023
Employer: Rocky River City School District
Title: Pupil Services Supervisor and Preschool Administrator
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Providing support, guidance, and encouragement to staff, administrators, students and parents all in a combined effort to meet student needs, improve student learning and create successful experiences is the most rewarding aspect of my job. I also have to share that I am very fortunate to work with such an amazing team here as well which is also a rewarding aspect of my job.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Networking and the resources provided to all of us are great benefits to being a NAPSA member.
January 2023
Employer: Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center
Title: Superintendent
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I am very proud to lead Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center, knowing the role we play in supporting 23 member districts in providing excellent educational opportunities to students. Our core services are designed to add value to all our districts through professional learning, networking, student events and more. Our elected services offer districts solutions employing expertise that results in excellent programming as well as efficiencies. Although our staff is spread across 1650 square miles and beyond, we work as a team to provide quality services and build valued partnerships. It is extremely rewarding seeing service in action!
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I appreciate the wealth of information NAPSA provides as well as knowing I belong to a group that is student-focused and advocates for public education.
December 2022
Employer: Rock Hill School District #3, Rock Hill SC
Title: Assistant Superintendent of Support Services; in my 32nd year in education.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Working to better ensure students have the opportunity to maximize their potential for a successful and rewarding future.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from different parts of the county on issues that impact students. Getting different perspectives, engaging is collegial discussion, and receiving pertinent feedback and perspective.
November 2022
Employer: For 27 years, I have been blessed to be employed in various capacities with the Commonwealth of Kentucky Department of Education. Additionally, my greatest employer has been my call of 15 years as Senior Pastor of the historic Second Baptist Church – Mays Lick, KY.
Title: I currently serve as Senior Resource Manager in the Office of Finance and Operations, Division of District Support. I am also honored to be a Statewide Mental Health Wellness Sr. Instructor.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the ability to integrate faith-based initiatives, along with technical expertise to facilitate innovative teamwork, educational leadership and mental health awareness in school districts across Kentucky.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
NAPSA is a safe place that fosters personal and professional growth and development for administrators, by serving as a repository of evidence based practices, proven experience and analytics. The leadership, fellowship and relationships cultivate a network for educational professionals that is PRICELESS. NAPSA encourages each affiliated person to believe you can achieve great things and make a difference.
Teamwork truly makes the Dreamwork. The late great Maya Angelou said it best when she said “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive: And to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style.” In essence – NAPSA cultivates you to THRIVE!
October 2022
Employer: Westerville (OH) City Schools
Title: Director of Special Education
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work
is the time I share visiting with teachers and students across the district. Though it can often be difficult to schedule building/classroom visits during the school year, I make an intentional effort to continuously make time for this I am rewarded by getting to know the staff and students on a personal level. More importantly, this also allows for them to really see me,
and that I truly care about individuals. I aspire for them to know that I will provide guidance as necessary, but will also walk alongside them at times when they feel alone on the journey.
Another rewarding aspect of my work is joining families and instructional staff in problem-solving and collaborating. I appreciate and value the contributions our staff and families make toward the success of our shared students. In addition to allowing them to feel heard, I want them to know that I sincerely care and I am invested in the outcomes of our conversations. Lastly, I am also very lucky to be in a role that allows me to open doors for others, through identifying and utilizing unique resources to support staff and students as well as by collaborating with community members.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I believe the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is the sense of community I feel. I appreciate the connection and networking with my colleagues. The information we are able to share with each other, as well as the resources, ideas, and inspiration, is invaluable.
September 2022
Employer: Community High School District 155, Crystal Lake, Illinois
Title: Assistant Superintendent for Student Services and Special Education
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
All of us, each and every one, demonstrate a level of excellence that sets us apart from others in our respective fields.
Whether it be in public service or the private sector, reaching out to the national level, or focusing on our local communities, we have all excelled at improving the lives of those around us. As for me, I have dedicated my entire professional career to local academic institutions. From the beginning of my career as a special education teacher, counselor, then administrator, I have championed the underprivileged, overlooked, and underserved. While I am proud of the accomplishments of our most talented students, I have always preferred to measure my success by the progress of those marginalized. I involve myself in crucial issues surrounding special education and student services to drive diverse, equitable, and inclusionary practices. If you seek a change agent, you want me in your corner, at your table, or on your team. My actions are sound and strength-based. I share this because NAPSA has been a critical resource for me for over the past decade and the individuals I have met on the national level all share in this passion. It is energizing to have a genuine connection with fellow NAPSA members. I’ve been told that one of my superpowers is laser-focused problem-solving. As the assistant superintendent for student services and special education, I stand in solidarity with my colleagues nationally. We are faced with an unprecedented array of ever-evolving challenges. I give thanks to NAPSA for providing a rich network of colleagues to share in these problem-solving efforts and encourage each other to continue to reach for new levels on behalf of all stakeholders.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I am passionate about educational law and believe everyone should have choice and a level playing field. It is an individual’s decision to determine their ceiling…their potential. Time and time again, I push individuals to shatter what they believe is their glass ceiling and to reach for more. Whether it be pandemic planning, ensuring the safety of others, championing healthy mental health, or adapting to facilitate success for those of all abilities, and backgrounds, we are presented with nearly limitless opportunities to implement and shape solutions. NAPSA’s membership has fostered these connections and remains on the cutting edge of legal trends and best practice. They assist in mentoring professionals by always standing in front of them to cheer them on, stand behind them when they need support, and walk alongside them so they never feel alone. NAPSA has played a critical role as new administrators join the field and attend online sessions, local chapters, the national conference, or simply by reading the monthly newsletter for tidbits. NAPSA is an immediate network for professionals to connect and support each other. If you have found yourself here today reading this spotlight, I challenge you to follow your why and encourage others to consider membership to NAPSA.
August 2022
Employer: North Ridgeville (Ohio) City Schools
Title: Director of Student Services; OAPSA President
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
It would nearly be impossible for me to pick the most rewarding aspect of the work that I do working in Student Services. I am privileged to spend time in meetings with families when they feel vulnerable and overwhelmed by the process of their child being identified for services and then have the opportunity to build rapport with families to work collaboratively and celebrate the successes that their child has over time. I find that as I have grown in my role as an Administrator, I have assumed the role of advocacy not only for our students and families, but also on behalf of my staff who work to provide engaging, uplifting, and challenging instruction to help students grow academically, functionally, and socially. When you have the opportunity to hire a young teacher and see them flourish as they build capacity and share their successes with their students, this is a cherished and rewarding moment that I work hard to remember for the difficult days when I feel most challenged.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I feel that NAPSA provides its members current information to support us in our day to day work. It is wonderful to know that there is a network of others that we can reach out to and that we have advocacy at this level to support the work we do within our own districts.
July 2022
Employer: Flemington Raritan School District, Hunterdon County, NJ
Title: Director of Pupil Personnel Services and Special Education I (also) helped to spearhead the establishment of the Hunterdon County Association of Special Education Administrators in 2021 and currently serve as the Vice President. I am a mentor for the New Jersey Leaders to Leaders program and currently am mentoring 2 NJ administrators.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I love being able to capitalize on student strengths and talents, while providing unique programs to support their continued growth. Similarly, it is rewarding to work alongside our team, all who bring unique strengths, talents and expertise together on behalf of all learners. But mostly, I love to bring a smile to faces in the workplace. In October 2021, I became a certified Therapy Dog handler through Bright and Beautiful, and can be found with Madeline, my English Golden Retriever taking walks through the halls and out to the playground of Copper Hill Elementary School.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Connections with NAPSA (and other state and national organizations) broaden opportunities for collaboration and growth for professional leaders. This is truly a benefit where special education leaders may otherwise serve alone in their districts. As the President of NJAPSA, I’ve found great camaraderie among the Executive Board Members. Together, we provide New Jersey special education leaders and staff with relevant professional learning and mentoring for new special education administrators. NJAPSA also provides six graduating seniors with the annual $1,000 scholarship in memory of the late Theodore Kozlik. It is refreshing to read the scholarship applications and to award the candidates for their talents and community contributions.
Personal:
Danielle lives in Warren County, NJ with her husband Loren of 26 years, their two dogs (Riley and Madeline), and their six chickens. Her sons Colin (24) and Kyle (22) have both pursued careers in the trades. Colin works as an ASE certified Auto-Mechanic in Warren County, NJ and Kyle works as a construction site manager for Keowee Construction in Oconee County, SC.
June 2022
Employer: Stock and Leader
Title: Senior Associate, School Law Practice Group at the firm of Stock and Leader. In this role, I navigate the myriad of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidance affecting public schools to advise school board members, central administration, building administration, and classroom staff with the ultimate goal of ensuring every student can reach the potential s/he deserves to experience. My approach to being successful in my career requires me to examine issues from all angles to assess the impact of my advice on not only school boards (my direct clients), but each school district’s students, employees, and parents and facilitate collaboration among other government entities such as Children and Youth, Juvenile Probation, and the courts.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I really enjoy being able to support and advise those “on the ground” in school districts who work so hard to facilitate student growth and success. Prior to my time at Stock and Leader, I worked for United Way of York County with the specific focus of aligning cross-systems policies and practices to reduce truancy and support increased student attendance. A professional accomplishment of which I’m particularly proud, from my time at the United Way of York County, is the development of the York County Youth Court Alliance – a youth-led, restorative practices, sentencing option allowing students charged with truancy to face a jury of student-peers who are trained to resolve the problems causing the absences from school, instead of going to court.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
My favorite benefit of being a NAPSA member is receiving input on various common school and education issues, through a national perspective, from various experts and educators across the country. It is affirming to realize that while there are so many diverse needs and demographics of our nation’s schools, and therefore so many differing needs to support and ensure student success, in the end, we’re all in this together!
May 2022
Employer: Steelton-Highspire (PA) School District
Title: Director of Pupil Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is advocating for McKinney-Vento students and their families. With the increase in students being deemed homeless in our school district, it was critical that our teachers and staff received professional development on how to identify students who may be experiencing homelessness and who they should communicate their concerns to. Kristen Hoffa and Lauren Hammond from the PA Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) provided a comprehensive McKinney-Vento training that has aided in an increase of students being identified and families receiving services. With everyone onboard and working to better serve our McKinney-Vento student population, we have overcome many of the barriers that our families are facing and we are able to provide a better educational experience.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is the access that I have to our members and their expertise on various topics. Since becoming a member in 2020, I have reached out to Dr. Arnold on several occasions and he has always been gracious with his time and he has either provided answers to my questions, or he has put me in contact with a member who could assist me. It’s comforting to know that I have access to members who are eager and willing to assist.
April 2022
Employer: Retired
Title:
Although my current job title is “retired”, I am active in our church and community serving as a member of the Williamsport Kiwanis Executive Board and member of the Bowman Field Commission. I was the committee chairperson of the Kids United Community Playground project. In August 2021, we completed a three year project raising over $504,000 to build an all-inclusive 10,000 sq. foot playground for kids of all abilities and backgrounds. Spearheaded by the Williamsport Kiwanis Club, it was a collaborative project partnership with the Williamsport Education Foundation and the local Rotary Club. We were successful in completing our goal during the pandemic. The playground includes traditional equipment with those that feature accessible ramps for wheelchairs and other assistive devices that provide access to all levels of the playground. One of the most gratifying moments was watching a second grade child, who had never been on a playground, confined to a wheelchair go down the slide and ride a swing. Not a day passes when children are not playing on the playground, even in cold weather. I smile every time I go by it.
Prior to retiring, I served as Executive Director of NAPSA for 13 years and Director of Student Services of the Williamsport Area School District for 24 years.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I joined NAPSA in 1980. It was one year after becoming a Student Services Director. As the only administrator in the district with student services responsibilities, I was searching for professional support and for professional development opportunities in the various disciplines included in student services. NAPSA provided all the above. Furthermore, I developed professional and personal relationships with members of the organization. Being able to communicate with colleagues with similar problems and concerns was a wonderful resource. NAPSA was a tremendous asset in guiding me and our district to develop programs designed to meet the academic, social, emotional, physical needs of all students, as well as school safety. NAPSA is a wonderful professional organization and I am proud to be a member.
March 2022
Employer: Richmond (VA) Public Schools
Title: I have worked in public education for over 28 years and I continue to discover how much I still have to learn regarding our profession. I began my career as a teacher assistant and gradually rose on the career ladder as an elementary teacher, assistant principal, principal, and currently I serve as Manager for the Pupil Placement Services Department for Richmond Public Schools.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Some of the previous initiatives I have been asked to lead include:
- Division chair of school calendar committee
- Division chair for student code of conduct
- Supervision of over 100 employees
- Management of nearly million dollar departmental budget
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I am grateful that there is an organization such as NAPSA to have other pupil services professionals that can share experiences and provide support when facing similar challenges in public education. I firmly believe that this organization is currently and, in the future, will be a crucial piece in elevating the position nationally, but more importantly the organization can demonstrate and advocate why Pupil Services is so important to the success of a school division.
February 2022
Employer: Kings Local (OH) School District
Title: Assistant Superintendent of Educational Programs
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I work in an amazing school district with a wonderful staff, supportive community and outstanding student body. I feel privileged to be able to come to work every day. If I had to pick just one aspect of my job, it would be having the opportunity to guide the district in making high-level decisions that will positively impact all Kings’ students. I have always been a strategic thinker and natural problem-solver, and my new role as Assistant Superintendent allows me to draw upon these strengths and continue to lead our district to new heights. I work with a magnificent team of teachers and administrators with the sole focus and intentions of doing what is best for all Kings’ students. It is exciting to expand upon my skills and work with this dynamic team to continue to make sure Kings students are learning and achieving at the highest level.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is the collaboration between members. I have been able to attend OAPSA and NAPSA meetings and conferences, collaborating with colleagues and sharing ideas is the reason I want to belong to an organization. NAPSA allows for the sharing of ideas as well as presenting information that is beneficial to our roles in our districts.
January 2022
Employer: Hatboro-Horsham (PA) School District
Title: Director of Special Education and Special Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Though it is hard to pick just one aspect of my work, I believe some of the most rewarding times are when we have worked together to develop programming that increases student and family access to services, which in turn has positively impacted a student’s social emotional well-being and academic success. I would like to believe that my work helps build capacity in our staff so that it is our culture to continue to develop equitable quality programming for all members of our school community.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The resources and networking opportunities have been invaluable, even more so during the pandemic. I truly have appreciated the ability to reach out to colleagues across the country in order to share ideas and learn from their experiences.
December 2021
Employer: Charles County (MD) Public Schools
Title: Supervising Pupil Personnel Worker
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is supervising a strong team of Pupil Personnel Workers that share the same passion that I possess; in wanting to do whatever is necessary to help students overcome any barriers that may possibly interfere with their overall academic success. It is rewarding to connect families to much needed resources such as food, clothing, holiday assistance, health and counseling services, to name a few. We care a great deal for our students and their families, and will implement and utilize various programs and strategies, such as mentoring groups, afterschool clubs, tutoring and partnerships with community organizations to provide support to students and their families.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is the opportunity it gives to me in obtaining resources and training to share with my Student Services department. I particularly enjoyed the most recent NAPSA conference because it really focused on the current issues that students are experiencing during this pandemic, and how we as educators can provide trauma focused support and strategies to assist students in achieving academically during this challenging time.
November 2021
Employer: Rock Hill (SC) School District
Title: Director of Mental Health
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is providing a meaningful platform to bring together effective and diverse teams within the school district and community stakeholders. With these teams, we are able to problem-solve pressing and timely issues pertaining to mental health and wellness. The teams prioritize, research and problem-solve creative and innovative mental health services and/or programming. This process creates an atmosphere that has provided open, honest communication to support the changes that we have identified as the greatest needs for serving the mental health needs of our District. Implementation of well-designed, innovative services have proven to be beneficial to all of our students and is a personally rewarding aspect of my work.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
As the recently hired and first Director of Mental Health for Rock Hill Schools, it is exciting to see that the 2021 NAPSA conference is specifically focused on Trauma, Resiliency and Support. As a NAPSA member, I am looking forward to the opportunity to learn about varied interventions, effective strategies, and implementation of innovative initiatives to support students’ academic, social, emotional, and physical needs. It is encouraging to know that NAPSA is committed to creating a world where all students can be provided appropriate supports, services, and programs to overcome their barriers to learning.
October 2021
Employer: Cherry Hill Public Schools
Title: Assistant Superintendent Compliance, Equity and Student Services. I also serve as the District Affirmative Action Officer, the District Title IX Officer and am the District Antibullying Coordinator. In addition, I serve as a trustee on the board of the New Jersey Association of Pupil Services Administrators.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I am fortunate to work with an innovative team that is committed to collaboration. We work collectively for the success of students in our district and our work in pupil services has a specific focus on students with disabilities and student wellness. Our district is in the midst of very exciting work focused on equity, diversity, and inclusion and we have two new programs addressing student and staff mental health that I am very excited about implementing.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
It is always comforting to work with colleagues who have similar experiences and who can lend their support, offer advice, or just listen and be a thought partner. NAPSA’s support is invaluable in this role.
September 2021
Employer: Bear Creek Community Charter School
Title: Director of Student Affairs
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of Pupil/Student Services is the students. It is incredibly rewarding to put programs and services in place that enable students to overcome barriers to reach their fullest potential.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is having a network of amazing professionals with whom I can share issues and situations. I find it helpful to have colleagues who have similar as well as different experiences than my own in order to gain knowledge, expertise, and support. As a Pupil Services Administrator, we are often singletons in our school or district. Having a network of professionals to reach out to is an invaluable resource. I appreciate being a member of NAPSA!
August 2021
Employer: State College Area School District
Title: State College Area School District’s Director of Student Services and going on year 2 as the District’s Pandemic Coordinator
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my job right now is the ability to train and use restorative practices every day and then to hear my colleagues using it and sharing their stories about the successes they have experienced with staff, students, and parents through putting those things to use. In addition, I feel rewarded every day, mostly because I work with an amazing team of professionals who truly love and care for our students, but also because my job pulls from my strengths as a problem solver and servant leader.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
By far, the greatest benefit of being part of NAPSA is having so much experience, knowledge, and expertise at your fingertips. Being able to share those tough situations that pupil services directors come across so often with other NAPSA members can save you so much time, energy, and anxiety. I have found that no matter how rare or crazy the situation is, someone has had the same experience, or something similar, and can provide you with direction or a path to move forward.
July 2021
Employer: Prince George’s County Public Schools
Title: Director of Employee and Labor Relations, Prince George’s County Public Schools. Prior to this, I served in Student Services as a School Psychologist for six years, and then four years as Special Education Supervisor for Winton Woods City Schools in Forest Park, Ohio. This was followed by five years as Director of Student Services for Arlington Public Schools in Arlington Virginia, and then three years as Executive Director of Student Services for Alexandria City Public Schools in Alexandria, Virginia.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
- Planning supports and services for students and families.
- I enjoy problem-solving.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
- Networking. The board members are great and very knowledgeable. Also, connecting with others across the US in student services leadership positions.
- Attending the conferences – Specific PD for Student Services professionals is hard to find. NAPSA has been great at filling the void.
June 2021
Employer: Talbot County (MD) Public Schools
Title: Assistant Superintendent for Administrative and Support Services. Because Talbot County Public Schools is a relatively small school system, my position includes the oversight of Student Services, Human Resources, Transportation, and Plant Operations.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
My role allows me to continue serving the students, families, and employees in our school community whether it involves student transportation, the physical plant where students learn, and/or the myriad of issues that Student Services handles every day. The Student Services Department includes Pupil Services Workers, Social Workers, School Health Professionals, and School Counselors. Through continued advocacy and support, we have been able to strengthen the department by adding the positions of a Mental Health Coordinator, a Dropout Prevention/Re-Engagement Specialist, a Behavior Specialist/Teacher Consultant, an Addiction Intervention Specialist, and a Family Navigator. All of the departments in the administrative and support services division work together to provide the best individual opportunities possible for our students.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Even when transitioning to a new position, I kept my NAPSA membership due to the wealth of information provided to its members. We all have the same goals: keeping abreast of the latest trends; learning from others who have faced similar challenges; and the availability of professional development opportunities. In addition to being able to tap in to the relevant state and national requirements and initiatives, NAPSA also takes us out of our local and state issues for a review of what is happening across the country. It is comforting on many levels to know that we are all facing similar challenges and have a resource such as NAPSA to assist us through networking as well as up to date information that directly impacts the way we design and structure our service delivery.
May 2021
Employer: Delaware County (PA) Intermediate Unit
Title: Executive Director
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Working with incredibly talented professional and support staffs to deliver quality programs and services to our families, children, and communities. It is rewarding to visit our many programs and observe the great work we do. We touch so many lives of children and families. Our staff at DCIU provide a vast array of supports through professional development opportunities, curriculum development and implementation, consultation services and direct programming. Being part of an organization that cares so deeply for our families and stakeholders and thrives to the provide excellence in services and programs is extremely rewarding.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Being part of an organization whose goal is to provide leadership, development, and resources for administrators serving or supporting the role of pupil services is so vital in today’s world. Being able to keep abreast of best practices in the areas of academic, social, and emotional tools and interventions is important as well as how to integrate these services within a school culture and environments are essential to support the whole child and the educational community.
April 2021
Employer: Grand Island (NY) Central School District
Title: Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my position is: even though I am a District Administrator, I still have daily contact with the building administrators, teachers, students and parents. It is also so rewarding to be working and living in the community so that I can be involved in supporting all stakeholders. My two daughters also graduated from Grand Island Schools. Additionally, I appreciate the teamwork that has occurred during the pandemic and how we have all supported each other.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
As a NAPSA trustee, the greatest benefit is the networking that takes place not only at our meetings but at the National Conference as well. It is imperative that as professionals, we can dialogue and share information specific to our responsibilities. As a member of NAPSA, the opportunities for information, dialogue and benefits are endless. Our upcoming conference in October 2021 has important and extremely relevant speakers, vendors and board members! Please consider attending this rewarding opportunity!
March 2021
Employer: Retired
Title: I have worked as a High School and Middle School Science Teacher for nine years, a Middle School and High School Assistant Principal and Principal for 23 years in various schools, and a Director of Pupil Services for 17 years
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work was the ability to improve the system. A person moves from teacher to administrator in order to expand their sphere of influence. A teacher typically influences 150 students (5 classes per year). A building administrator typically influences 400 – 1000 students and their families and 20 – 60 teachers per year. A central administrator typically influences thousands of students and their families and hundreds of teachers per year. The administrator’s goal is to improve the functioning of the system, the quality of education, and the conditions of life for the students and their families, and the working conditions for the staff.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is establishing a professional network with people across the country, who share your job, responsibilities, problems, and goals. You are not alone and probably not the first to encounter the various situations with which you must deal. The exchange of information and experience available is priceless!
February 2021
Employer: Davis School District, Farmington, Utah
Title: I have worked for the past 11 years as Director of Student and Family Resources for the Davis School District in Utah.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I have felt the most rewarding aspect of the work we do is to build positive relationships with others and to look for opportunities every day to “be the one” particularly as it relates to the important work we are doing in the lives of all children, educators, and our community. Each one of us can make a difference for good in helping our students and those around us succeed in reaching their goals and aspirations academically, socially, and emotionally. Our motto in the Davis School District has been “Learning First”. All educators in our district have embraced the belief that “Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story.” (Josh Shipp)
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefits of being a NAPSA member are the opportunities to connect with other Pupil Services leaders, relevant Professional Development resources, training opportunities, national conferences, and being informed on the evidence based best practices in the field. In addition, NAPSA membership provides national advocation through the organization in the critical work we are doing for students, families, and the districts we serve. This has been particularly evident and timely this past year as we have all looked to our NAPSA leadership for guidance during the pandemic. I have felt supported with the positive informational content provided as a result of my NAPSA membership and will continue to be a participating member of our organization.
January 2021
Employer: Oak Ridge Schools, Oak Ridge, TN
Title: Director of Pupil Services, which means I wear a lot of very different hats from attendance, discipline, food services, foster care, homeless, migrant, immigrants, ELL, school nurses, court liaison, Title IX coordinator, Title VI, and Title III. I call Pupil Services the “customer service department for the school district.”
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is working with and helping students and their families. My day changes hourly and the change can be overwhelming, but I enjoy a good challenge every now and then.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
There is not one single benefit but a plethora of benefits! NAPSA is small enough to get to know members on a personal level but the wealth of information shared via conferences and the NAPSA website is phenomenal! You get information from some of the top professionals in the field of school leadership, school administration as well as information on “hot topics” currently affecting schools. NAPSA members develop a special bond that most organizations strive to have. I never attended a conference or read the monthly newsletter that I did not come away with some tidbit of information that I could use or share with my colleagues. Some of the conference speakers have been very mind-blowing with their presentations that you look forward to the next conference!
Membership also gives you certain perks like professional liability insurance – plus very well-informed members who can direct or provide you with other pertinent information relating to your job. NAPSA brings the concept of networking to a level of its own. I have made friends that I enjoy seeing each year and that I can reach out should I have a question about an issue. We all live in different states, with different school guidelines and rules but one thing is certain – We all work with kids and their families!
December 2020
Employer: Palmyra Area School District, Lebanon County, PA
Title: Director of Pupil Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I most enjoy the everyday positives that come from the support and guidance the pupil services team provides to students and families. Over the last 33 years, I’ve seen the increasing challenges students and families face. The pupil services team is a much more vital part of the school team and when everyone works together, we’re able to see students thrive and grow. As we say in the district, #IGetToWorkHere!
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
NAPSA is one-stop shopping! The responsibilities of a Director of Pupil Services continue to grow. Often, we’re looked at for guidance and expertise in the many areas that fall under the large umbrella of pupil services. NAPSA provides resources and support in all the key areas, whether that be through webinars, newsletters, conferences, and/or connections with colleagues. It’s also good to know that NAPSA provides a voice for us at the federal level.
November 2020
Employer: Guilford County Schools, North Carolina
Title: Supervisor of Dropout Prevention and School Social Work Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Promoting the use of established protocols and the district’s mission by establishing supportive structures for school social workers, dropout designees and graduation coaches, that grants them the opportunity to provide consistent preventive and intervention services of support to students and families.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Having the opportunity to glean professional insight from respected leaders that operate and serve in programs that meet the needs of students that cater to the child as a whole (academic, physical, and social/emotional).
October 2020
Employer: Mechanicsburg School District
Title: Director of Organizational Development, Student Services Coordinator
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
A job in the student services arena is on where no day is routine and in order to achieve success, one must work as a member of a collaborative team. I am truly blessed to work in an organization like the Mechanicsburg Area School District, where the pulse of the community has a harmonic beat focused on meeting the needs of our children. The Board, administrative team, faculty, parents, students, and community organizations all take an important role in balancing the system designed to support the school program. Some may feel this is descriptive of Utopian society; however, we have our share of “problems” as well. Every organization has hardship, unmet needs, and stories that keep you awake at night. The difference is perspective.
Student Services administration provides opportunity of accepting these issues as challenges to overcome; rather than items to fear or avoid. We have the opportunity to be agents of change. Rita Pierson said it best; “Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be.” A job in the field of Student Services is hard, but can also be fulfilling. The ability to forge relationships serve as the most rewarding aspect of my work, which is so much more than a “job”. I credit my mother for this perspective. She taught me to find a career where you love what you do, so you never have to work a day in your life.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
A NAPSA membership provides opportunities for ongoing professional learning, legal updates, and a fluid network to others working in the many areas of student services. Student Services Administration is a post that varies from state to state, and from district to district within each state. Our district collaborates within a consortium of six local districts where each district has a different approach to the oversight of student service programs. Information received from a NAPSA membership assists in guiding practice toward the possible integration of programs between districts.
The annual conference provides opportunity for authentic connections to others who share a passion for student services. Relevant topics in combination with engaging presenters equate to a conference that should be at the top of every Student Service Administrator’s conference list.
September 2020
Employer: Spring Grove Area School District
Title: Director of Pupil Services / School Safety & Security Coordinator
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I love the variety of projects in my position. I never want to lose the connection to students. On my worst days, I find myself checking in on an elementary class. No days are ever the same! I enjoy the collaboration within Spring Grove. We bounce stuff off of each other all the time to ensure the message or directive is accurate. In these awkward times, knowing you are not alone in the battle is a gift.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Receiving updates in legal cases or newly implemented programming that has been successful in other states provides me with the big picture. NAPSA is the resource to reach out to other districts or states for program recommendations, etc. As a Pupil Services admin, my role is to consider the whole child, including their social emotional needs. It’s wonderful to be able to reach out to colleagues through NAPSA to share ideas.
August 2020
Employer: ESC of Northeast Ohio
Title: Independent Hearing Officer
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Helping kids and their families!
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The emails and the professional liability insurance coverage.
July 2020
Employer: Immaculata University
Title: Dean, College of Graduate Studies
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
I enjoy working with men and women seeking to further their education within the profession of their choosing. It is rewarding to hear them say that they not only received information within their studies but formation as an ethically responsible leader to be of service to their profession and the community.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I have taught a doctoral course titled Pupil Personnel Services and always find information from NAPSA that I can use with students that is relevant and timely. Because of the interest students have when they take the course and finish, I received PDE approval for Immaculata University to offer the certification in Pupil Personnel Services. It has been widely received and it is possible to take all the classes completely online.
April 2020
Employer: Vandalia Butler City Schools
Title: Director of Student Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is hearing the success stories of our students over time. We work through some difficult situations and when we see tremendous growth and maturity, it makes it all worth it!
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
The greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member is without a doubt…..the networking!
May 2020
Employer:
Madison Champaign Educational Service Center
Title:
Executive Director of Ohio Association of Pupil Services Administrators and Administrative Specialist
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is having the opportunity to interact with so many individuals who have an impact on the success of students with disabilities. In my current role, I meet and/or interact regularly with key stakeholders in Ohio and national groups such as Ohio Department of Education’s State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children, the Ohio Coalition for Education of Children with Disabilities Governing Board, the Council of Administrators of Special Education, the National Association of Pupil Service Administrators and the Ohio Association of Pupil Services Administrators. In turn, I have the pleasure of sharing that information which I learned with other Student Services/Special Education Administrators throughout our state as well as other members of each of those groups. I especially love working with groups to address the shortage of Special Education and Related Service Staff and currently work with the Ohio Related Service Shortage Work-group, the National Coalition on Personnel Shortages in Related Services as well as working on a work group with some Ohio legislators on a plan to increase funding to schools to ensure equity among districts including addressing the shortage in hard to fill personnel areas in Special Education, Related Services and other hard to fill educational positions in certain regions of our state.
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
I’m simply not able to list the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member because there are so many benefits! I think the benefit I discuss with other Student Services Administrators most frequently is the great liability policy which NAPSA provides to all members. I always consider the NAPSA Conference a huge benefit because the presentations and networking opportunities are top notch! The resources including newsletters and NAPSA Tidbits keep members updated with latest information plus best practices. I also love that NAPSA reminds all members of special days and special months along with clip art we can use for each of the Student Services Disciplines such as “Social Work Month” and “Social Work Day.”
April 2020
Employer: Amherst Exempted Village Schools (Ohio)
Title: Director of Student Services
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my job involves the relationships I have built over the years with my families and with my staff. Together we have worked to create and develop programs and strategies to help move our students and the district forward. I am very proud of the district and the Amherst community!
What is the greatest benefit of being a NAPSA member?
Being able to network with members fromother states who are doing the same work, just maybe approaching it a little differently, is one of the greatest benefits of being a NAPSA member.