The Schenectady City School District is pleased to announce that on September 11, 2024, the Board of Education approved the appointment of Tia Corniel as the Executive Director of Schools and Assessment.
Corniel comes to Schenectady from the Albany City School District where she has been serving as principal of Pine Hill Elementary School since 2018. Prior to that she worked as an assistant principal in Albany before serving as principal of Brighter Choice Charter School For Girls for two years. Corniel’s experience also includes serving as an academic dean for three years, a biology teacher for four years and providing teacher support and development as part of Teach for America programming. Corniel started her educational career as a middle school math/science teacher and department chair.
“I am thrilled to join the Schenectady City School District which nurtured me as a young child,” said Corniel. “As I begin the role of Executive Director of Schools and Assessment, I am committed to listening and learning as I work to contribute to the growth of our schools.”
“I am pleased and excited to welcome Tia to our team,” said Dr. Carlos M. Cotto, Jr., Superintendent of Schools. “She is a passionate, energetic and creative leader who brings enthusiasm, innovation, and vast educational leadership experience. Tia will be a great asset to our team.”
Corniel has an array of coaching, facilitation, and mentoring experience. She served as a UnboundEd Standards Institute facilitator, principal mentor in the Albany City School District, Summer Principals Academy internship coach at Columbia University Teachers College, NY Education Policy fellow in 2021, and a RULER turnkey trainer
She was awarded the Empire State Supervisors and Administrator CAPSA Administrator of the Year in 2022 and the Women of Color Award by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Nu Tau Omega in 2021.
Corniel earned a Bachelor degree in Linguistics from the University of Albany, a Master of Education from the University of Phoenix, Master of Education in Organizational Leadership from Columbia University, Teachers College, and a School District Leader Certificate from the University at Albany.
Corniel will fill the re-shaped position that was previously held by Joseph DiCaprio, who in March, was appointed Deputy Superintendent. She will provide support to school principals and oversee the district’s data and assessment program. Corniel will serve as a member of the superintendent’s executive leadership team (ELT).
She will begin in Schenectady on October 11, 2024.