By Bill Parry
An educator from Astoria was appointed leader of the largest Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) in New York state.
Dr. Carla Theodorous was named executive director of the Nassau BOCES Department of Regional Schools and Instructional Programs. The department encompasses several notable schools and programs such as Barry Tech, the agency’s premier career and technical education high school, and Long Island High School for the Arts, the Island’s only public art high school.
“I feel that to make any organization successful, everyone has to know that the work they do is valuable, that they are a part of a team, and that each member of the team must be heard and respected,” Theodurou said. “If you break down barriers and rally people together, they will work harder and more efficiently toward a common goal.”
Theodorou brings more than 30 years of experience to the position, much of which was spent as an educational leader in the New York City School system, where she was a founding principal of two high schools including Benjamin Franklin High School for Finance and Information Technology in Jamaica, where students earned professional certification in computer technology that prepared them to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Throughout her long and successful career, Theodorous said she has always placed a high value on mentorship, often serving as a mentor herself.
“When you mentor teachers, you empower them to become leaders,” she said. “When you show people that they are valued and respected, you build trust, which leads to greater contributions that improve students’ lives.”
Theodorous also has international experience as the owner and manager of the Advantage School, a private language institute in Cyprus. She also served as an administrator for London University’s International College.
“I like change and learning new things,” Theodorous said regarding what drew her to Nassau BOCES. “The dynamics of the agency are unique. I’m really impressed with each building and program that I visit, and I’m inspired by the work that’s happening here. I know I can help continue to build a positive culture, and to make the schools even more successful.”
Nassau BOCES offers state-of-the-art programs for learners of all ages and abilities as well as cost-effective services for 56 school districts in Nassau County.
“We’re excited to have her join the team,” District Superintendent Dr. Robert Hilton said. “Her leadership as an educator will benefit the agency. We’re certain she’ll keep us on the cutting edge of instruction.”
Theodorous holds a doctorate and a master’s degree in education from Teachers College at Columbia University and both a master’s and bachelor’s degree from Hunter College.
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
