Locust Valley Central School District is adding two new special education positions for the 2025-2026 school year in an effort to ensure consistency and continuity in its services. Tina Messina and Jennifer Masa will take on new roles at the Assistant Director of Elementary Special Education and Assistant Director of Secondary Special Education, respectively.
Messina joined the district in October 2024 as a special education teacher and subject matter coordinator. She has been an important part of communication with the Committee on Special Education (CSE) chairing meetings, serving as the primary point of contact for parents, staff and external agencies and overseeing CSE compliance. Additionally, she oversaw the implementation and evaluation of the district’s Multi-Tiered Systems and Supports (MTSS) plan in collaboration with building principals. Messina’s experience ranges from roles as a special education teacher at Longwood Central School District from 1998-2004 to time as an assistant principal, program facilitator, director of special education, administrator of pupil personnel services and principal.
Masa has been in the district since 2009, and has been a familiar and friendly face in the high school serving as assistant principal for the past four years. She, too, has served as a point of contact for CSE meetings and a liaison for the special education community, as well as working with parents on Life Skills program-related inquiries and student concerns. During her career, Masa has held such roles as administrative dean, high school special education coordinator, dean of students and special education testing coordinator.
“This strategic structure will not only strengthen support for both students and staff, but also enhance curriculum oversight, foster stronger relationships and improve communication with families,” Executive Director of Pupil Personnel Services Effie Kyvelos said. “With a dedicated point person at each stage of a student’s educational journey, we can deliver more responsive, high-quality support tailored to their unique needs.”
Both Messina and Masa will be available to meet with community members before the SEPTA elections on Tuesday, June 10, at 6:30 p.m.