The Amityville Union Free School District has elevated longtime educator Teresa Gandarillas as its new assistant director of pupil personnel services and special education. 

A dedicated member of the Amityville school community for more than 23 years, Gandarillas brings extensive experience in special education, instructional leadership, bilingual education and family engagement to her new role.

Gandarillas has served in a variety of leadership capacities, including as an ENL Family Liaison, Shared Decision-Making Team Chairperson, New York State Testing Co-Coordinator, and District Curriculum Advisory Council member. She has led schoolwide initiatives to strengthen family engagement, expand community partnerships, improve school culture and support instructional excellence.

"Teresa has dedicated her career to serving the students and families of Amityville with compassion, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to student success," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert. "Her deep understanding of our community, combined with her expertise in special education, bilingual education and instructional leadership, makes her exceptionally well prepared for this role. We are proud to see one of our own continue to grow as a leader and know she will have a meaningful impact on our students, staff and families."

A bilingual educator certified in School Building Leadership, School District Leadership, Special Education, Elementary Education and Spanish, Gandarillas has consistently worked to strengthen educational opportunities for diverse learners. She has developed Parent University workshops focused on special education, delivered professional development for educators, collaborated on district curriculum initiatives and supported multilingual families through meaningful communication and outreach. She also previously served as a bilingual early intervention evaluator, partnering with families and multidisciplinary teams to support young children with developmental needs.

"I am excited to further my career in the Amityville Union Free School District as the new assistant director of special education and pupil personnel services," said Gandarillas. "Having dedicated my career to serving the students, families and staff of Amityville, I am honored to continue building on the relationships and experiences that have shaped my journey as an educator. I look forward to collaborating with our school community to strengthen inclusive practices, support educators and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Together, we will continue to foster a culture where all students feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their full potential."

Gandarillas earned an Advanced Certificate in School Building and School District Leadership from St. Joseph's University, a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Education from Stony Brook University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Child Study with dual certification in Elementary and Special Education from St. Joseph's College.