South Orangetown Central School District

Over the course of this school year, the South Orangetown Central School District has worked to align its central administration structure with its long-range strategic plan to more efficiently and effectively fulfill its vision to Elevate, Engage and Inspire. “The five focus areas emphasize our district’s strategic commitment to academic success, high-quality instruction and an engaged community in which all students have access to supports and opportunities,” said Superintendent of School Dr. Robert Pritchard.

In December, Alicia Koster was named Executive Director of Finance & Management Services, after joining the district last July as the district’s School Business Administrator. The Finance and Management Services department oversees finance, business, staff relations, facilities and capital projects, food service, transportation, and safety, security and compliance. Director of Financial Services Laura Zarcone continues to serve as District Treasurer and assists with the oversight of the day-to-day tasks of the Finance Office. “This has enabled us to better align our organizational structures and controls to the strategic plan, and position us to better support our students, staff and families,” noted Ms. Koster.

In January, Dr. Karen Tesik was hired as Executive Director of Pupil Personnel Services, after serving for six months as Interim Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services. The Pupil Personnel Services department encompasses special education, academic and college/career counseling, social-emotional and mental health services, school nursing and the Family Engagement Center. “What makes our district stand out is its commitment to creating and maintaining positive school cultures to meet the evolving social, emotional and academic needs of our students. This focus, coupled with enhancing family engagement and community involvement, will lead to additional opportunities to elevate, engage and inspire all of our students,” Dr. Tesik said.

As Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Dr. Brian Culot continues to oversee athletics, continuing education, curriculum development, and instruction including English as a New Language and response-to-intervention (RTI).

Alicia Koster Laura Zarcone Dr. Karen Tesik

Above, from left: Ms. Alicia Koster, Ms. Laura Zarcone and Dr. Karen Tesik.