Valerie Angelillo
Principal
H. Frank Carey High School
Sewanhaka CHSD
John C. Maxwell once wrote, "A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way." In her four years as principal of H. Frank Carey High School in Franklin Square, Valerie Angelillo has done just that. Her standard line at parent meetings and student assemblies is, "Carey High School is all about academics."
Students have responded to her inspirational declarations by taking more rigorous classes and scoring higher on all Advanced Placement exams. In the last few years, she also has added several multiple Advanced Placement classes (Chemistry, Psychology and Human Geography) to provide students with more options. Valerie recently launched 21st Century Scholars, an innovative program in which students are encouraged to engage in enriching, creative endeavors outside of the normal school hours. In turn, dedicated teachers volunteer their time to share their expertise and passion with these students outside of the classroom. Some of the projects have included mountain biking a rugged trail, making artwork out of old book jackets and decorating a homeless shelter for the holidays.
"Her energy and devotion to the students at Carey are boundless and everyone (from students to teachers to security guards to custodians) has benefited from the fruits of her efforts," wrote her Education Partner Award nominator.
Valerie began her career as an English teacher at New Hyde Park Memorial High School and moved up the ranks, serving as a high school counselor and chairperson of guidance before becoming an assistant principal. She served in this role at both Sewanhaka and Elmont Memorial high schools from 1995 to 2008.
Valerie holds a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in education from St. John's University and a professional diploma from Long Island University's C.W. Post Campus.
In 2006, she was named Administrator of the Year by the Nassau County Counselors' Association and has received several district mini-grants.
Valerie lives in Westbury, N.Y.
