Meet Valley Stream District 24’s new director of pupil services

Students at the Valley Stream District 24 welcomed Juanita Walters as its new Director of Pupil Services. The district described Walters as “an esteemed leader with a passion for supporting students and their families.” She introduced herself to the community during an August meet-and-greet, encouraging families to connect with her to share their feedback and goals for their children.

“My work in education has shown me how vital it is to support families and understand the unique resources each student needs to succeed. There’s a strong connection between students’ lives outside of school and their performance in the classroom,” Walters said.

“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to focus on pupil services and engage in the meaningful work of uplifting and inspiring both students and their families.”

Walters brings a wealth of experience in special education, social-emotional learning, behavior intervention, and English as a New Language (ENL). She has spent a decade with the New York City Department of Education, where she most recently served as an assistant principal, and previously worked as a special education teacher in more restrictive settings. Ms. Walters’ passion for education was inspired by her fifth-grade teacher, who gave her the support she needed to thrive after moving to a new community.

Walters holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Queens College, a master’s degree in urban education and special education from Long Island University, and an advanced master’s certificate in school building leadership from the College of St. Rose in Brooklyn.

She is currently pursuing her doctorate at St. Peter’s University in Jersey City, with a dissertation focused on supporting students with disabilities.

Valley Stream District 24 congratulates Walters on her new role and warmly welcomes her as she embarks on this exciting chapter with the community.