Jefferson School’s Awesome Tradition of Excellence Continues

Jefferson Primary School opened its door for classes for the first time in September 1962. In the nearly 65 years since then the school has developed an awesome tradition of excellence with many of Huntington UFSD’s best and brightest coming from its ranks.

Today’s Jefferson School continues to stand tall on Oakwood Road. The building is in great shape and the teaching staff is prepared to help students reach all of their goals.

“I am excited to show our students, staff, and families the newly refreshed courtyard filled with positive signage and cheerful décor that celebrates kindness and community,” Principal Valerie Capitulo-Saide said.

Ms. Capitulo-Saide has been the principal of Jefferson Primary School since August 1, 2012. She came to Huntington after serving three years as principal of PS 101Q-The School of the Gardens in Forest Hills, Queens. She earlier worked for two years as that school’s assistant principal.

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 in elementary education and a certificate in educational administration-school building leader.

“I am thrilled to welcome back our returning families and extend a warm greeting to new students, families, teachers and staff joining Jefferson Primary School this year,” Ms. Capitulo-Saide said. “I look forward to fostering a safe, responsible, respectful and kind school community through our district’s PBIS plan.”

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.

Ms. Capitulo-Saide 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. She has engaged in a wide variety of professional training and development activities, including the Principal's Institute, NYC leadership mentoring program, advanced leadership mentor program for assistant principals, City College of New York Mathematics Institute mentoring program, Marilyn Burns Math Solutions Institute, Columbia University-Teachers College summer institutes in reading and writing and various experiences with the Educational Leadership Institute.

“I am eager to connect with families and the community at the many events planned throughout the year, building strong partnerships that support our students,” Ms. Capitulo-Saide said. “I look forward to see classrooms come alive with joyful routines, engaging lessons, and a curriculum aligned with New York State Standards that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and growth for every child.”