A pair of experienced educators are taking on new administrative roles at Berner Middle School in the Massapequa School District. Kristen Meoli was appointed as supervisor for special education and Michael Lisa is the new dean of students.

Ms. Meoli is in her 12th year in the district, beginning as a speech language pathologist assigned to multiple schools. She moved to Berner full time in 2017 and served as co-adviser of student council. In 2022, she was appointed dean of students. Ms. Meoli holds a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology from LIU Post, a master’s degree from Adelphi University and her administrative certification from Stony Brook University.

In her new role, she will oversee special education programs and related support staff for grades 6-8. Her goal is to ensure that all students have accessible learning opportunities in their classrooms and throughout the Berner community.

“I am excited to get back to my roots and my passion of supporting special education students, along with their families,” Ms. Meoli said. “I look to connect my goals to the district’s vision and mission of empowering learners and creating leaders.”

Mr. Lisa steps into Ms. Meoli’s former role of dean of students. He has worked in the district for 29 years including as a social studies teacher at Berner Middle School and Massapequa High School, and, most recently, as the part-time attendance officer at the high school. Additionally, he spent 17 years as the girls varsity track and field coach. Mr. Lisa holds a bachelor’s degree in social studies education from SUNY Albany, a master’s degree in educational technology from New York Institute of Technology and his administrative certification form Touro College.

In his role, Mr. Lisa aims to guide students to ensure they are making good choices and fostering their success in middle school, high school and beyond. Building strong relationships with staff and parents, he added, is essential to promoting a culture of responsibility and leadership.

“I look forward to collaborating with the Berner Middle School administrative team,” he said, “to create a safe, supportive and accountable school environment where students are encouraged to make good choices, demonstrate respect and achieve success.”