New director of Pupil Personnel Services focusing on building relationships, staff development

Nicole Gardner has spent much of her first month in the Red Hook Central School District familiarizing herself with existing programs, collaborating with district partners and planning opportunities for staff development.

As director of Pupil Personnel Services, Gardner’s department is responsible for providing a range of programs and services to students with learning differences and includes teaching staff, school psychologists, counselors, school social workers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and physical therapists.

“My goal is to continue building strong, meaningful relationships with students, staff and families while learning how I can best contribute to the continued success of the Red Hook district community,” she said.

Gardner officially began the role at the start of September. She came to Red Hook with more than a decade of experience. Most recently, she spent more than a year as assistant principal of Dutchess BOCES’ Salt Point Center. In the Kingston City School District, she was tenured in general and special education, and served as the district’s Committee on Special Education chair.

“Red Hook’s mission to empower students to embrace today and navigate the possibilities of tomorrow strongly resonates with my own educational philosophy,” she said, noting the community “has been incredibly supportive and welcoming. It is evident that the staff are dedicated and student-centered, and I look forward to being part of that important work.”

Dr. Kitty Summers, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Staff Development, called Gardner “a consistent advocate for creating equitable learning communities and opportunities, fostering strong partnerships and championing pathways for students to grow into lifelong learners.” She added, her “collaborative, solution-focused approach to student success will be a valuable asset to our district.”

While Gardner is based in the administrative offices at Mill Road Elementary School, the department’s staff and her work can be found in each of the three schools.

“I believe every student deserves opportunities to develop the skills, independence and confidence necessary for future success,” Gardner said. “I strive to build collaborative systems that promote equity, strengthen educator capacity and ensure students with disabilities receive the individualized support they need to reach their full potential.”