In an emotional and heartfelt speech at the latest Community Education Council 24 (CEC) meeting, Superintendent Teresa Caccavale announced her retirement after a distinguished 40-year career in public education.
Caccavale, who has been a vital part of School District 24 for the past decade, shared her ‘surprising’ but understandable decision to step down. She reflected on her experiences and expressed deep gratitude for her colleagues, students, and the community she served.
“I’m going to retire, which I know is a surprise,” Caccavale began, acknowledging the impact of her announcement. “A leader is not any good if they don’t build sustainability. When I think of Superintendent Chan, she built a lot of sustainability, and that’s what I’ve tried to do here.”
Caccavale’s leadership and commitment to fostering collaboration among principals, staff, parents, and elected officials have been hallmarks of her tenure in District 24. This School District lies within the neighborhoods of Ridgewood, Maspeth, Glendale, Middle Village, Elmhurst, Corona, Woodside, Long Island City, and Sunnyside.
Reflecting on her extensive career, Caccavale recounted her early days in education, starting with teaching young children and gradually advancing through roles such as Assistant Principal, Consultant, Principal, and ultimately, Superintendent. Her career has spanned diverse experiences, from learning literacy instruction at Columbia University to overseeing early childhood education.
“My happiest place for the past ten years has been in District 24,” Caccavale shared, speaking fondly of the community she has served. “District 24 is a special place, and when I retire, I know everyone in this room and beyond will make sure that it remains the place that it is.”
A passionate advocate for dual-language programs and STEM education, Caccavale emphasized the importance of diversity and collaboration in achieving success. “We know that dual-language programs are better for life and not just for tests,” she explained. “And STEM is the way of the future.”
Caccavale acknowledged the changing world and the need for balance in her life, citing the importance of prioritizing her health and family.
“I have to put my health first now,” she said. “My daughter’s getting married in June. I want to honor her. Then there’s my aging parents. It’s just stuff I have to take care of.”
Her announcement was met with an outpouring of gratitude from parents, CEC members, and colleagues. A parent in attendance praised Caccavale for her dedication, saying, “I want to thank you for your years of dedication to School District 24 and all of your great work as Superintendent.”
CEC Member Matthew Crescio, who has worked closely with Caccavale, described her as a staunch advocate for principals. “Teresa always stood up for principals. She had your back every time,” Crescio said. “She truly had her heart in every aspect of this district. Thank you for everything that you do. Happy retirement.”
CEC Member Manish Jain expressed mixed emotions about no longer working with the Superintendent, knowing that she will be missed.
“I don’t have enough words to describe her correctly, but good luck with your future. Please keep in touch with us. On behalf of everyone, thank you so much for everything you have done for us,” she said.
After the announcement, the council presented Caccavale with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a symbol of the deep respect and admiration she had earned throughout her career.
As Caccavale embarks on the next chapter of her life, she leaves a legacy of unwavering commitment to education, leadership, and community. Her impact on District 24 will be felt for years to come, and her retirement marks the end of an era in the district’s history.
As of now, no information has been released regarding who will succeed Caccavale as the next superintendent of District 24.
