Executive Director Frank Gagliardi, EdD, Bids League School Adieu

Dr. Frank Gagliardi, League School’s Executive Director, bids adieu to the school at the end of this month. When he announced his plans for this June’s retirement last fall, he didn’t imagine the surreal time we’d be in this spring, but he’s leaving the school on strong footing that will enable it to continue to thrive.

“We are fortunate to have everyone pulling together for the benefit of our students during these difficult times,” said Frank. “Having worked with (incoming Executive Director) Larry Sauer for the past two years, I know the school will be in good hands, and the transition will go smoothly.”

During Frank’s 12-year tenure, he’s spearheaded the:

• Adoption of Social Communication and Emotional Regulation through Transactional Supports (SCERTS®) program that incorporates social and emotional regulation needs for a holistic educational approach to learning
• Expansion of the school’s physical footprint and student enrollment
• Launch of consolidated on-campus residential program facilities
• Introduction of “Train the Trainer” and “Safety Care” programs

His proudest achievement is the quality and camaraderie of the staff. “We have an amazing staff doing a phenomenal job in the classroom, in supervision, and in administration,” he says. In conjunction with a supportive Board of Directors, Frank is leaving the school with a solid programming, facility, and financial foundation.

“Frank has had a positive impact on everything that makes the school one of the premier institutions of its type in the United States,” said Roger Lockwood, Board Chair. “The list of accomplishments is endless: an imaginative curriculum, growing enrollment, doubling the physical footprint, improving the facilities, starting and growing a development program, strengthening the faculty and the administration, and more. I doubt there is any person in the field of special education who has had the incredible influence and phenomenal results that Frank has achieved.”

Looking ahead, Frank notes the role that technology will play in improving the school’s communications, particularly with families. “We have students from 57 cities and towns, which makes the logistics of in-person meetings challenging,” he says. “Through Zoom meetings and other virtual events, the school can increase outreach to families and school districts.” Stay tuned for details on the League School’s rescheduled Night of Champions event, when we will have the opportunity to thank Frank for his service to the League School and its students.