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Garden City Public Schools appoints new high school assistant principal and assistant director of pupil personnel services

At its business meeting on April 8, the Garden City Public Schools Board of Education proudly appointed Ms. Amanda Hauser as the Garden City High School assistant principal and Ms. Jaymie Alonso as the assistant director of pupil personnel services, effective July 1, 2025.

Ms. Hauser currently serves as the coordinator of music and the arts for the Garden City School District, where she supports and guides districtwide music and arts initiatives. In this role, she fosters collaboration among faculty, helps shape engaging student-centered programs and works to strengthen connections between the schools and community.

She launched the GCmusic_arts Instagram to spotlight student achievements and promote events, introduced new course offerings such as Theater Arts at Garden City Middle School, and established both the National Art Honor Society and Art Club at the high school level.

Ms. Hauser also plays an active role in organizing major district events, including the NYSSMA Festival, and maintains partnerships with community organizations such as the Friends of Music, PTA and SEPTA. She oversees curriculum planning and development to ensure continuity and excellence across all grade levels. A member of the Garden City Schools team since 2014, she previously served as a chorus teacher and administrative intern.

“I have worked closely with building principals, central administration and community organizations to ensure that the needs of students and staff are met, while also advocating for initiatives that enhance the overall educational experience,” said Ms. Hauser. “As an assistant principal, I will bring this same collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence, ensuring that all students have the support they need to grow academically and socially.”

Ms. Alonso has served as the assistant director of special education at the Glen Cove School District, and during her time there she has developed a collaborative leadership style by supervising and mentoring elementary special education staff, psychologists, social workers, speech pathologists and related service providers. She has extensive experience managing K-5 programs, fostering inclusive environments and creating individualized education plans that meet diverse student needs. Ms. Alonso has chaired numerous CSE meetings, led professional development initiatives and expanded programs to provide intensive student support in alignment with Least Restrictive Environment guidelines. 

Ms. Alonso initiated the district’s first Special Education Extended School Year program and coordinates with agencies to arrange and schedule occupational therapy, physical therapy, parent counseling, training and 1:1 aide support while in compliance with each student’s IEP. Previously, she has worked with the Baldwin Union Free School District as a speech/language teacher, summer elementary jumpstart coordinator and special education teacher on CPSE/alternate CPSE chairperson.

“I am dedicated to creating positive, student-focused learning environments, fostering professional growth, and building strong relationships with staff, students, and families,” said Ms. Alonso. “My experience and commitment to excellence will be brought with me in my new position in the Garden City School District.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha shared, “we are thrilled to congratulate Ms. Hauser and Ms. Alonso on these well-deserved positions. Their extensive experience and dedication to their students will strengthen the district and make a lasting impact on the school community for years to come. We look forward to Ms. Hauser’s and Ms. Alonso’s leadership in this new chapter and know their expertise and passion will contribute to the continued success and growth of the district.”

The Garden City Public Schools community is excited to welcome Ms. Hauser and Ms. Alonso into their new roles, confident that their visions will bring continued success to the district.

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