Education

District 13 announces next Superintendent of Schools

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At a recent Board of Education meeting, Dr. Judith A. LaRocca was announced as the next superintendent for Valley Stream School District 13. LaRocca’s first day as acting superintendent will be on Jan. 15, 2022—one day after the district’s current acting superintendent, Dr. Constance D. Evelyn, formally steps down after a six-year tenure on Jan. 14, 2022.
“It is an honor and a privilege to be chosen as the next leader of the Valley Stream Union Free School District 13,” said LaRocca to an audience of parents, board trustees, and school officials at the James A. Dever school auditorium.
She further added: “Our fundamental goal as educators is to create a learning environment that enables students to become collaborative members of society who can think critically to solve complex problems. I look forward to building upon the comprehensive work we have achieved together over the past six years. We will continue to collaboratively make Valley Stream 13 the best place to learn and work.” 
Dr. LaRocca’s journey in education began in 1996 as a middle school mathematics teacher. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the State University of New York College at Cortland, and her master’s in Liberal Studies with a specialization in teaching art and science; and a graduate certificate in School District Administration from Stony Brook University. Most recently, Dr. LaRocca completed her Doctor of Education from St. John’s University.
LaRocca is currently the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in Valley Stream Union Free School District 13, a position she has held since 2016. During her time, LaRocca has played an instrumental role in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion for the district both in regard to hiring practices and the curriculum. Her work has been featured in The Education Trust- New York’s publication, a statewide education policy and advocacy organization focused on advancing educational equity for low-income students and students of color. Prior to working for district 13, LaRocca was the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology in the New Hyde Park-Garden City Park Union Free School District.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. LaRocca as our next Superintendent of Schools,” said Board President Dr. Frank J. Chiachiere. “Dr. LaRocca has the administrative experience, the leadership qualities, and the respect of her fellow central and building administrators and teachers that make her uniquely suited to assume this leadership role in our District.”