Touro University Graduate School of Education

Big news from our Touro GSE alumni community! 🎉 Join us in celebrating Jolie Kowal ('15), who has been named the new Principal of the Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School (RKS)! 🏫🍎
Jolie has dedicated her career to special education, progressing from a passionate classroom teacher to assistant principal, and now taking the helm at RKS. Her mission? Cultivating a nurturing, family-centered environment where students with special needs can build the essential confidence, self-regulation, and life skills they need for independent adult living.
From expanding community engagement through initiatives like the A.C.E. program to helping students find their personal "anchors," Jolie is a true champion for student success both inside and outside the classroom. 🌟
We are incredibly proud that her journey into leadership was shaped right here at Touro GSE. "I chose to pursue my advanced degree at Touro... because of its strong reputation and the flexibility," Jolie shared. "As a graduate student, I was provided with practical knowledge and formed meaningful connections... those experiences helped support my growth as a leader."
Congratulations, Principal Kowal! We can't wait to see the incredible impact you continue to make. 💙🎓
Read our full interview with Jolie about her career path, her vision for RKS, and her tips for navigating modern challenges in special education!
https://gse.touro.edu/news/stories/jolie-kowal-named-principal-of-rosemary-kennedy-school.php

Jolie Kowal Named Principal of Rosemary Kennedy School Touro Graduate School of Education Alumna Discusses Preparing Students with Special Needs for Independent Adult Life

“Thank you, family!” 🎓✨
— Naomi Vargas, candidate in the MS in Ed/Special Education
“Thank you, Touro, and to my loved ones. I would be nothing without you,” — Shay Feliz, candidate in the MS in Ed/Special Education, Grades Birth–2 program
“Congratulations, graduates! We did it!” — Chaya Perera, candidate in the MS in Ed/Special Ed program
“Thank you, Touro, for the opportunities that are given to us!” — Rabia Sarlim, candidate in the MS in Education/Special Education and Kappa Delta Pi inductee

“Teaching is my superpower!” 🦸‍♀️🍎
— Haley Frey, candidate in MS in Ed/Special Ed
“I am grateful to my family for their support,” — Vaneshia Marshall (pictured on photo two), candidate in the MS in Ed/Special Education, Grades 1–6 program
“Thanks to the faculty of the Touro GSE for all they did to help me on my journey,” — Claudia Warren (pictured on photo three), candidate in the MS in Ed/Special Ed, Grades 1–6

“Thank you, Touro!” 🎓✨
— Alfredo Melendez, MS in Ed/Special Ed, Grades 7–12 candidate

Today we continue celebrating our amazing graduates! 🎓✨
Sharing their excitement, warm wishes, and heartfelt gratitude:
“Congrats to all the graduates!” — Ethan Casey (pictured on photo three), MS in Ed/Special Ed, Grades 1–6 candidate
Jackie and Natalie (pictured on photo six), candidates in our MS in Ed/Special Ed, Birth–Grade 2 program, said they felt like the stars of the show ⭐️

🎓✨ Walking across the stage at the iconic United Palace Theatre — a moment we’ve dreamed of, worked for, and will never forget.
From late nights to big wins, every step led to this one. Grateful for the journey, the memories, and everyone who made it possible.
Here’s to new beginnings and everything ahead. 💫