Jefferson School Parents Invited to Meet & Greet
Valerie Capitulo-Saide is anxious to meet as many parents as she can before the start of the new school year. Jefferson Primary School's new principal will host a meet-and-greet get-together on Tuesday, August 28 at 7 p.m. in the school gymnasium.
Ms. Capitulo-Saide formally assumed her new post on August 1. She replaces former Principal Margaret H. Evers, who retired on June 30. "I have been busy preparing for the new school year and getting to know about the rich history of Jefferson School," Ms. Capitulo-Saide said in a letter to parents. "I believe in a well-rounded education which focuses not only on academics, but also on the arts and technology. I encourage high standards for all students."
All parents of Jefferson students are invited to attend the meet-and-greet session. "This will be an opportunity for us to meet in an informal setting before the beginning of school," Ms. Capitulo-Saide told parents. "I want to assure you that I am committed to your child's education at Jefferson."
Ms. Capitulo-Saide earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in creative studies-dance at Hofstra University. She pursued graduate level studies at LIU-C.W. Post College, obtaining a Master of Science degree in elementary education and a certificate in education administration-school building leader.
Jefferson's new principal came to Huntington after serving three years as principal of PS 101Q-The School of the Gardens in Forest Hills, Queens. She earlier worked as that school's assistant principal for two years.
Prior to embarking on an administrative career, Ms. Capitulo-Saide worked in Community School District 26 in Bayside for two years as a dance teacher in a "literacy through the arts" program for students ranging from pre-kindergarten through ninth grade. She then taught grades three, five and six in elementary classrooms at PS 173Q and PS 213 in Bayside from 2001 to 2005. She was a math coach and academic intervention services team leader at PS 101Q in Community School District 28 in Forest Hills from 2005 to 2007.
"Even though I have just begun at Jefferson, I know that it is a perfect fit for me," Ms. Capitulo-Saide said. "I have heard wonderful things about the children and families at Jefferson and look forward to working collaboratively with you. I hope to learn more about Jefferson through you."
Refreshments will be served during the meet-and-greet.