Greenwich Public Schools Names Special Education Program Coordinator

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones this week announced that Harry Burg has been named special education program coordinator, effective mid-July. Burg brings more than 30 years of special education experience to GPS, most recently serving as the director of pupil services for Blind Brook-Rye Union Free School District in Rye Brook, N.Y.

Burg will be providing assistance to building administrators, general education staff, and special education staff to increase access to the curriculum for students with disabilities, the school district said in a news release. He will review and recommend supplemental curriculum materials, evaluate curricular options for non-academic instruction, and promote universal access in the development of curriculum and instructional activities.

In addition, Burg will plan, coordinate and provide professional learning for certified and non-certified staff and will be an evaluator for certified special education and related services staff. He will report directly to Chief Officer of Special Education and Student Supports Dr. Stacey Heiligenthaler.

"Harry Burg possesses a wealth of experience and knowledge as a district-wide special education administrator," Heiligenthaler said in a news release. "He has a clear understanding of the priorities of our special education and student supports department, helping to build upon the family and community partnership to create stronger relationships and increase opportunities that help all students and families thrive."

Burg had been with Blind Brook Schools since 2008, initially as the assistant director of pupil services and then for the past 14 years, director of pupil services, where he led program development and worked closely with administration to establish, schedule, and implement support for all students at all levels, the school district said.

Burgh oversaw the Committee on Special Education to ensure compliance with all federal and state laws.

Prior to his time in Blind Brook, Burg served as an elementary and middle school special education teacher at Pleasantville (N.Y.) Union Free School District for 13 years after starting his career in education in the New York City Public Schools.

"I am very excited to begin the next chapter of my educational journey in Greenwich," Burg said in a news release. "I have the skills, knowledge, and experience to work with Dr. Jones and Dr. Heiligenthaler to further support the implementation of the District's Special Education Action Plan. I look forward to the opportunity to work with teachers, staff, and administration to review current practices, to celebrate and highlight successes, and to work together to enhance instruction for all students at Greenwich Public Schools."

Burg holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Colgate University and a master's in special education and curriculum and teaching from Teachers College, Columbia University. He also holds 093 and 065 certificates, and is certified as a school administrator, teacher, and academic language therapist.