Valley Stream District 30| the friendly schools 

Every Picture Tells a Story: Valley Stream 30 Welcomes New Educators Who Think “Inside the Box”

Valley Stream, NY — Valley Stream District 30 is proud to welcome a group of outstanding new educators and staff members who join our district for the 2025–2026 school year. These new hires — including teachers, leave replacements, and teaching assistants — reflect our continued commitment to educating, inspiring, and celebrating every student.

This year’s theme, “Every Picture Tells a Story,” came to life in a creative exercise during staff orientation. New staff were challenged to “think inside the box,” a nod to the idea of creative constraints. Each painted within a small box, yet their work revealed stunning sunsets, natural landscapes, and vivid scenes, many inspired by their shared love of the outdoors. Among them is a new art teacher, a particularly exciting addition in a district where the arts are not seen as an “extra,” but as an essential part of education that should permeate every classroom.

“Just as our new staff created beauty and originality within the boundaries of the box, we as a district are called to do the same,” said Superintendent Dr. Garcia France. “Even with the constraints of state and federal aid, we believe creativity and innovation must flourish. These educators remind us that constraints do not limit possibility, they spark it.”

Meeting the Challenge of Teacher Shortages

Across New York State, school districts continue to navigate the challenges of a national teacher shortage. Valley Stream 30 has responded not by lowering standards, but by strengthening our recruitment and hiring process.

All candidates undergo a rigorous selection process that includes:

• Multiple rounds of interviews focused on instructional philosophy and cultural alignment.
• Classroom demonstrations where candidates teach and receive feedback from staff.
• Leadership observations for administrative hires, ensuring a clear vision for teaching and learning.

This process not only allows the district to assess candidates, but also gives candidates an authentic opportunity to learn about Valley Stream 30’s values, expectations, and commitment to students.

Building a Pipeline of Future Educators

In addition to hiring certified staff, Valley Stream 30 continues to partner with local universities to strengthen the pipeline of future educators. The district hosts both student teachers and student observers, creating meaningful opportunities for teacher preparation programs while ensuring that our classrooms are places of growth, collaboration, and innovation.

Recruitment is also designed to honor diversity and broaden access. Valley Stream 30 actively partners with organizations such as Nassau BOCES, OLAS, LIBEA (Long Island Black Educators Association), and Latino educator networks to ensure that recruitment reaches candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. This intentional effort supports the district’s vision of fostering a strong sense of belonging for students and staff alike.

 

Welcoming Our New Team Members

We are excited to welcome the following individuals to Valley Stream 30 for the 2025–2026 school year:

Valley Stream, NY — Valley Stream District 30 proudly welcomes a group of exceptional new educators and staff for the 2025–2026 school year. This year’s district theme, “Every Picture Tells a Story,” reminds us that each individual brings a unique perspective, passion, and talent to our schools. If every picture tells a story, then here is just a glimpse into theirs:

• Kristen Vinciguerra – A dual-certified educator in Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities, Kristen brings classroom experience in both general and special education and a passion for inclusive instruction.
• Katie Fournier – With more than ten years of experience across preschool, elementary, and middle school, Katie is known for her student-first mindset and ability to design engaging, meaningful instruction.
• Vincent Zhao – A licensed social worker, Vincent specializes in counseling, crisis support, and building social-emotional skills that help students thrive in and out of the classroom.
• Jackelyn Maltese – Holding advanced degrees in special education, Jackelyn is committed to tailoring lessons to each learner and creating supportive, structured environments for student growth.
• Jennifer Aviles – With over 18 years in early childhood and elementary education, Jennifer brings expertise in special education and strong collaboration with staff and families.
• Jovaira Hanif – A certified teaching assistant with experience in bilingual and special education settings, Jovaira brings patience, collaboration, and strong communication skills to her work with students.
• Joeylin de Guzman – A certified speech-language pathologist, Joeylin has extensive experience supporting young learners in communication, early intervention, and ABA settings.
• Anthony Santamaria – A passionate art educator with over 20 years of experience, Anthony blends creativity, cultural relevance, and hands-on practice to inspire confidence through the arts.
• Kelly Nicholson – Principal of Forest Road Elementary, Kelly brings more than 14 years in public education, leading with purpose, compassion, and a relentless focus on student success.

About Valley Stream District 30| the friendly schools 

Valley Stream District 30 is a vibrant, high-performing community that reflects the full spectrum of America’s population. Residents represent Black, African-American, Hispanic, Latinx, Asian American, White, and Pacific Islander backgrounds, essentially every census subgroup. Nestled in North Valley Stream, the district is often described as a “little UN,” showcasing the broad cultural, ancestral, and historical traditions of its families. The district’s teaching and leadership team mirrors this community, with over 30 percent of staff representing rich traditions from across America and beyond. This alignment ensures that students are recognized, valued, and empowered, and that every child experiences a strong sense of belonging.. Valley Stream 30 exemplifies how access, opportunities, and nurturing sense of belonging serve as levers for achievement and a brighter future for every child.