Dr. DePaola possesses a unique combination of extensive experience in educational leadership, a strong commitment to curriculum, program, and professional development, combined with her extensive interdisciplinary knowledge, makes me a transformative and innovative educational leader, who enhances teaching and learning for all stakeholders.

Through excellent leadership skills and working knowledge of current exemplary educational pedagogy and technology, she collaborates with stakeholders to provide all students exceptionally engaging learning experiences. Dr. DePaola guides the development, implementation, and evaluation for PreK-12 curriculum and instructional services and have built a plethora of successful programs including, STREAM, robotics, character education, summer enrichment, before and after school enrichment academies, adult education, and a districtwide universal pre-kindergarten program. To enhance these experiences for students, she assisted in conceptualizing and outfitting unique educational spaces with state-of-the art technology and flexible furniture across grades PreK-12 to foster students’ 21st Century Learning skills.  She is involved in various capital projects to improve the facilities across the district.  Also, through collaboration with faculty and administration in the different school buildings, Dr. DePaola played an integral role in Plainedge schools receiving state, national, and international recognition for academics and character education.  In addition, she presents at national, state, and regional conferences, to share expertise and insights with a wider audience.

Dr. DePaola actively collaborates with parents, teachers, administrators, and community members illustrating my commitment to supporting the whole child and enhancing community involvement in education. She successfully re-imagined and reopened schools amidst COVID with committees to ensure continuity of instruction in safe environments.  To meet social emotional needs of staff and students, Dr. DePaola assisted in partnering with Northwell Health to provide mental health services. Additionally, she is actively involved in community in various ways such as: Rocco’s Voice for Autism, which supports autistic children and their families, Best Buddies, and Special Olympics. She also supports and attends community and school events. Before arriving in Plainedge, Dr. DePaola began her education career as a NYC math teacher for at-risk students which led to being a Chairperson and an Assistant Principal in the Lawrence School District. 

Dr. DePaola is a life-long learner committed to continuous improvement and professional development and have the ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of education.

From the sports arena (NY Rangers) to the political and educational arenas (NY Attorney General’s Office and Plainedge), Dr. DePaola uses her experiences and skills in public relations, finance, and education to create policies, write grants, develop and manage budgets, and provide top-notch education, enriching programs, and events for all students, teachers, and community members.