GPS Appoints Head Of Particular Schooling & Scholar Helps
GREENWICH, CT – Dr. Stacey Heiligenthaler has been appointed by Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones as chief officer of special education and student supports. Heiligenthaler previously served in the role on an interim basis.
“Greenwich Public Schools is comprised of an amazing group of administrators, staff, parents, and students that welcome our collaborative efforts,” Heiligenthaler said in a news release Wednesday. “Together as a group, we have completed amazing work over the past seven months, but it is only the beginning. We all look forward to the critical and rewarding work ahead of us.”
Jones said in a short time, Heiligenthaler has led the special education department through significant progress, which includes the creation of a comprehensive Special Education Action Plan 2021-2024, which helps to create positive change in culture, climate, process, instruction and compliance.
“She is committed to enhancing academic success for all students and access to programs, protocols, practices, and compliance across the entire District with tremendous compassion, responsiveness, and professionalism,” Jones said.
Heiligenthaler, who has served as GPS’ interim chief officer of special education and student supports since July 1, 2021, works with the special education team “to ignite a collaborative and supportive environment” with families and students, the school district said.
Heiligenthaler monitors the implementation and compliance with state and federal laws, regulations and guidelines regarding special education and related services, and maintains strong student supports for social and emotional learning and the mental health of students.
Prior to her time in Greenwich, Heiligenthaler served as the director of pupil personnel services for Norwalk Public Schools. She holds a bachelor’s degree in intensive special needs and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Boston University; a master’s degree in human development with an emphasis on elementary education with cross-cultural language and academic development from Pacific Oaks College; a master’s degree in legal studies with high honors from Santa Barbara College of Law; and a Ph.D. in organizational systems from Saybrook University.
Heiligenthaler also completed graduate coursework in finance, supervision and instructional leadership, data-driven decisions for school improvement, and curriculum from Grand Canyon University.