Bryan Yurka was appointed Director of Special Education/District Data Coordinator by the Westmoreland Central School District Board of Education on March 23. His first official day in the new roles will be April 10.
For the last five years, Mr. Yurka has served the Westmoreland Central School District as an Educational Data Analyst through a leadership data service provided by the Mohawk Valley Regional Information Center (MORIC). Prior to joining MORIC, Mr. Yurka was a Special Education teacher, with a special focus on Inclusion, for more than 12 years in the Southern Tier of New York State. He is experienced in a variety of student-focused programs, including Co-Teaching, Integrated Co-Teaching and Consultant Teacher Services, which are designed to support students individually to meet rigorous academic standards. He also has extensive experience in school-based interventions.
“I am honored to be the new Director of Special Education/District Data Coordinator and privileged to be a part of Westmoreland’s excellent reputation for academics, quality of education and community support,” said Mr. Yurka. “As a proud parent and educator, I feel more connected to the process of teaching and learning as I get to witness my own son reach new milestones each day. I am looking forward to working with administration, teachers, students and families to reach our own milestones to carry out the district’s mission, ensuring students become responsible and resourceful citizens in an ever-changing world.”
Mr. Yurka earned his Master’s degree in Special Education from Marywood University and completed the Educational Leadership program at Binghamton University, earning his School District Leader Certification in 2016. He has an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Music Science.
Mr. Yurka currently resides in Wampsville with his wife, Sarah, and son, Abram, who is turning two in May. In his spare time, Mr. Yurka enjoys traveling to the East Coast to visit his many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Yurka is replacing Mrs. O’Connell, who retired as Primary Elementary School Principal and Coordinator of Special Education on April 1.
Congratulations, Mr. Yurka!