Community News

Nassau BOCES Appoints New Assistant Director of Special Education

The Nassau BOCES Board of Education has named Joanna H. Malament as Assistant Director of the Department of Special Education, starting April 12, 2021. She joins the leadership team of Nassau BOCES’ largest department, serving more than 1,500 students with special needs in center-and district-based programs throughout Nassau County.

“During her time at Nassau BOCES, Ms. Malament has proven to be an outstanding administrator,” said District Superintendent Dr. Robert R. Dillon. “She has led several initiatives, including moving her program to a new facility. Her background, work ethic and understanding of the needs of our students make her an exceptional fit for this position.”

Ms. Malament joined Nassau BOCES in 2018 and has more than a decade of experience as an educational administrator. She is currently Principal of the Robert Williams School in Jericho, which serves students grades 6-9 with learning, behavioral, emotional and developmental disabilities. Williams School students are educated by a multidisciplinary team in a therapeutic collaborative designed to meet their individual needs.

“We are thrilled to have Ms. Malament serve in this new capacity,” said Susan Bergtraum, President of the Nassau BOCES Board of Education. “Her commitment to academic rigor and strong mental health supports is exceptional.”

Prior to joining Nassau BOCES, Ms. Malament  was the Assistant Principal for Special Education at John Adams High School in South Ozone Park, NY for five years. She supervised all aspects of the special education program, including educational programs and services for students, staffing, budgeting, data collection, schedule development, compliance with state and federal mandates, and professional development for staff.

“I intend, along with my leadership team, to build and strengthen relationships with our district partners and stakeholders,” said Ms. Malament. “I believe that our aligned vision and actions will support advancement and provide innovative options for all the students of Nassau County. Thank you for this incredible opportunity to support the department.”

Ms. Malament is dedicated to providing mentorship to new school leaders. Since 2017, she has been an adjunct lecturer for the Hunter College educational leadership master’s program “Collaborative Leadership Advancing School Success.” Through this role, she has helped participants gain the skills and knowledge to become change agents and leaders of influence in their school communities.

Ms. Malament is currently studying for a doctorate in education in instructional leadership at the American College of Education. She holds a master’s degrees in educational leadership from Baruch College, a master’s degree in education/special education from Touro College and a bachelor’s degree in childhood education from SUNY Old Westbury. She has several New York State school certifications, including school district leader, school building leader, special education, childhood education and applied behavior analysis.

About Nassau BOCES

A vital regional resource, Nassau BOCES offers state-of-the-art programs for learners of all ages and abilities as well as cost-effective services for school districts and municipalities. We empower students to achieve their maximum potential in alternative, artistic, outdoor, special education, virtual, and career and technical environments. We offer adult education programs that are vital to improving the Long Island regional economy. In addition, our technology services form the backbone of many school districts’ infrastructures. As the county’s educational leader in implementing the state’s reform efforts, we are helping to shape the future of education. To learn more, visit www.nassauboces.org, like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

Related Posts