Project Description
Donna Neglia, Fellow
PS 216 The Arturo Toscanini School
Brooklyn, NY
Donna Neglia is the proud Principal of Public School 216 in Gravesend, Brooklyn. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from St. John's University and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and Literacy from The College of Staten Island. During this time, Mrs. Neglia served as a classroom teacher in District 21 and then later a Literacy Coach/UFT Teacher Center Specialist at PS 186. In 2010, Donna entered the DOE’s Leadership in Education Apprenticeship Program (LEAP). Through LEAP’s summer-intensive and year-long internship program, she earned her Certification in School Administration. Donna’s internship led her to become an assistant principal of PS 186. There, she worked with community partners such as NIA and ExpandED schools to lead the team in developing an Expanded school day initiative. This provided additional opportunities for all students in academics, SEL and the arts. In 2014, Donna Neglia was named principal of PS 216. She believes that all children have greatness and that educators have the duty and power to unlock that potential. This notion has led her to cultivate a vibrant school community focused on developing the leadership capacity of staff, students, and parents. The school has been recognized as a NYC Showcase School for their partnership with Edible Schoolyard NYC in creating a working school garden and culinary classroom. Donna is excited about the opportunity to learn and grow through the Cahn Fellowship.
Rosanna LaFroscia, Ally
Assistant Principal
PS 216 The Arturo Toscanini School
Brooklyn, NY
Rosanna LaFroscia is currently the Assistant Principal at New York City Public School 216 in Gravesend, Brooklyn. She has been an employee of the Department of Education since 2007. An alumnus of St. Francis College (Brooklyn), St. John’s University (Queens Campus), and the College of St. Rose (Albany), Rosanna has achieved many degrees and certifications in education including Common Branch 1-6, TESOL K-12, and School Building Leader. Furthermore, Rosanna has taken on many roles as a DOE employee including classroom teacher in both general education and ICT classroom settings, library cluster teacher, ENL teacher for integrated and stand alone ENL, ELL Coordinator, and, in her most recent role, she has stepped into the administrative position of Assistant Principal. Her devotion to the students of New York City has driven her passionate work in all mentioned capacities with a grand vision and now shared mission with her administrative team. Their collective excellence continues to drive Rosanna’s aspirations as a school building leader and nurtures her growth mindset to continue her journey as a lifelong learner.