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.