Levittown School District Brings On New Special Education Administrators

LEVITTOWN, NY — The Levittown School District announced the appointment of several new administrators this week, all of whom will take over positions in special education that the district says are “building on [the district’s] commitment to ensuring students, families and staff receive the highest level of service and success.”

Leading the line is Dr. Joseph Sapienza, the new assistant superintendent for special education who comes to Levittown from the Jericho school district. Sapienza has served as Cantiague Elementary School’s principal since 2021, previously spending seven years as a curriculum associate for pupil personnel services and working as a special education teacher before that.

“Throughout his career, Dr. Sapienza has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting students, staff and families through his expertise in special education and educational leadership,” district officials said.

Joining Sapienza will be Dr. Robert Mueller, the new director for special education. Mueller is a familiar face in Levittown, coming to the district in 2023 and spending the last three years as assistant director for special education. Mueller previously worked as a director of pupil services in Valley Stream District 24 and as a school psychologist in the East Meadow School District.

“Beginning his career as a school psychologist, his experience, leadership and commitment to students and families will continue to strengthen the district’s special education programs,” the district said.

Also announced this week was the appointment of Shannon Piccione — previously serving as the acting chairperson for special education at Levittown memorial — as the assistant director for special education. Piccione has also been a teaching assistant and special education int he Levittown district, joining the district in 2018. Her knowledge of the district and “commitment to the community,” the district said, “make her a tremendous addition to the administrative team.”

Finally, Gissell Scottborgh will be joining the Levittown district as an assistant director for special education, moving out to Long Island from Harlem’s Promise Academy Charter Schools. Scottborgh had served as the director of special services at Promise Academy since 2020, previously working in instructional roles including special education and ENL classes.

“Together, these leaders bring decades of experience in special education, instructional leadership and student support to Levittown,” the district said. “The district looks forward to the positive impact this team will have in strengthening services and creating opportunities for every student to succeed.”