At their business meeting on Thursday, May 9, the Elwood Board of Education was proud to announce that Dr. Gayle Steele will serve as the district’s next superintendent of schools, effective July 1.
Dr. Steele joins the Elwood School District from the South Huntington Union Free School District, where she has served as the assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for elementary education since 2021. While in South Huntington, Dr. Steele supported district principals with the development of academic goals for their buildings, developed and implemented a district strategic plan to address the curriculum and physical needs of each building, and supervised and evaluated instructional practices, among other duties.
Prior to her time as assistant superintendent, Dr. Steele held numerous positions, beginning her career as a caseworker for a foster care agency. “Although this job was challenging, I learned the value of a strong family foundation and how it shapes the future of a child,” Dr. Steele said. “I remained dedicated to supporting children and families but my interest in making a difference shifted to education.”
Dr. Steele then served as a grade 6-8 teacher with the Department of Education in Brooklyn, New York, before moving to Long Island to teach grades 5-6. She went on to hold the positions of assistant principal and principal in several districts before becoming the assistant superintendent for elementary education in South Huntington.
“We went through a rigorous process to identify our next leader, which included gathering input from our community and various stakeholder groups, as well as a thorough vetting of all candidates,” Board President James Tomeo said. “Dr. Steele succeeded at every step of the process. We are confident that Dr. Steele will continue the great work happening in Elwood and look forward to her guidance and leadership as we work in tandem for the best interest of our students and community.”
“I am truly thankful for the opportunity to join the Elwood Union Free School District and to share my love of learning with this community,” Dr. Steele said. “I look forward to working alongside this school community to continue the district’s trajectory of excellence for every student in Elwood.”
Dr. Steele holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Queens College, a master’s degree in elementary and special education from Touro College, a master’s degree in school leadership from Touro College and a doctoral degree in educational administration from Dowling College.
Date Added: 5/13/2024