October was National Principal’s Month!
At VCLC we are lucky to have amazing principals in our Syosset & Levittown locations, and in honor of National Principal’s Month we are sharing why they are so special with all of you.
Anna Cicciari, Principal, Syosset Campus
Anna Cicciari has been with Variety Child Learning Center for 23 years, beginning her career here as a Teacher’s Aide and then moving on to become a Teacher, Education Coordinator, UPK Director and ultimately was named Principal in Syosset two years ago.
“I love being around the kids and seeing how they change from day to day,” she says about her position. “When they come to us they are so young, and I love seeing them grow in so many ways.”
“Anna has played a crucial role in shaping the educational environment and the success of our school,” says Ally Chernick, a teacher in Syosset. “Anna’s leadership has profoundly impacted the lives of students, families, and teachers. Her mentorship and support have helped me grow and excel in the classroom. She is the best!”
“I have known Anna as a Teacher Assistant, Teacher, Supervisor, NCI Instructor, and now Principal,” notes MaryAnn DiTraglia. “She is a serene, strong, dedicated, supportive educator, with a touch of humor.”
“Anna has been nothing but an amazing principal to Syosset,” adds fellow teacher Stephanie Cutrone. “The compassion Anna has with the students and staff members here is indescribable. We wouldn’t get through the day without her!”
Anna’s dedication to Variety and the children in our programs is beyond measure, and adds to the success of the school. “This school is like no other in part because of the relationships we develop with our colleagues and families,” Anna explains. “To this day I still receive cards and pictures from students I have had over the years.”
Corey Lein, Principal, Gallow Campus
Corey Lein has been a part of the VCLC family for 10 years now, originally as building lead for Gallow where she is Principal and now overseeing Karopczyc and Sparke as well.
“I am excited to create a community where both staff and children feel comfortable learning and having fun together,” Corey says of her position. “Our staff, their care and dedication to our children is the reason our schools work so well!”
“I have had the pleasure of being here at Gallow almost from the beginning, and Corey has created an atmosphere of community where staff feels like part of a team,” says Barbara Dicken, a teacher in the building. “We all come together to celebrate birthdays and important moments in each other’s lives. During my most difficult professional moment, Corey was supportive and was there for me and my class. She is a natural-born leader and inspires us to all come together for the greater good.”
“Corey leads our program with compassion and fairness,” adds fellow teacher Martha Ratner. “She is always looking for ways to motivate and acknowledge the staff. She is the calm on our stormy days and the sunshine on our good days. We see her all over the building checking in on classrooms, saying hello to all the children by name and getting involved in school activities. She is a blessing to our program.”
“It is such a great feeling to walk into work each day and know that you are supported,” agrees Julie Rudolph. “Corey creates a working environment that is nurturing, positive, inviting and where our thoughts and ideas are heard. We are so lucky to have her as our principal and leader of our school.”
Thank you, Anna and Corey, for all you do for the students, teachers and staff at Variety Child Learning Center!
