Special Ed Director Gail Boyle Named Chatsworth Principal

by Joan R. Simon

(May 29, 2008) Less than two years after Steve Castar signed on as principal at Chatsworth Avenue School, he is being replaced by Gail Boyle, currently Director of Secondary Special Education at the Mamaroneck schools. (See: Chatsworth's New Principal Picked from Field of 100.)

Ms. Boyle started work in Mamaroneck in 1986 as a teacher at Chatsworth. She subsequently served as a Teacher on Special Assignment doing curriculum and staff development work with Chatsworth and Murray teachers and serving on the elementary administrative council. For seven years prior to that she was the Assistive Technology Coordinator. Since 2005 she has been a special education director at the secondary level and received tenure in April in that capacity.

“Because I have relationships and know the history,” Ms. Boyle said, “I can hit the ground running.” She spoke enthusiastically of the “young, energetic staff, supportive parents, and wonderful children” at Chatsworth. She said she feels “optimistic” and has been gratified by the “warm reception” she’s already received from Chatsworth teachers.

The Chatsworth committee that selected Ms. Boyle received approximately 75 applications and interviewed 15 candidates. The committee of 20 consisted of administrators, teachers, staff members, and parents.

One of the committee members, Chatsworth PTA co-president Nancy Davilman, noted that Ms. Boyle “was a standout candidate from the beginning.” She added, “Between her years in the district and her understanding of special education and her passion for children and education, she is a fabulous fit for Chatsworth.”

Longtime fifth grade Chatsworth teacher Allen Falber was equally enthusiastic. He described Ms. Boyle as having "the perfect assortment of skills for a successful administrator" and added "we just can't wait!!"

The school board will vote on Ms. Boyle’s appointment in June, with her tenure to begin on July 1st. In announcing Ms. Boyle’s candidacy, Superintendent Dr. Paul Fried said “I could not be more pleased to make this recommendation.” He reported that the Office of Student Services, led by Assistant Superintendent Anthony Minotti, will start its search for her replacement immediately.

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