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Susan La Due Named New Principal at 853 School

Veteran certified educator Susan La Due has been appointed Principal of St. Dominic’s 853 School in Blauvelt. Ms. La Due joins Saint Dominic’s Home from The Carol and Frank Biondi Education Center, where for six years she was principal of the private middle and high school operated by the nonprofit agency Leake & Watts in Yonkers, N.Y.

Ms. La Due has extensive experience working with students with severe academic deficits as well as social and emotional difficulties and is a welcome addition to the St. Dominic’s School. She is a former Executive Director/Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Support Services in Yonkers Public Schools, and for nine years was Director of Special Education for the District. She has a Professional Diploma from Fordham University, an M.S. in Learning Disabilities from the College of New Rochelle, and a B.A. in Education from Mercy College.

“We are very fortunate to have Sue take the leadership role in our coveted St. Dominic’s School,” said Judy Kydon, Executive Director of Saint Dominic’s Home. “She brings with her the kind of experience and expertise that will undoubtedly benefit all students, parents, faculty and staff. In the short time that Sue has been at the helm, we have already experienced increased opportunities and expect more to come.”

Ms. La Due said she had been familiar with St. Dominic’s School from her experience in Yonkers Public Schools and always admired the school’s success, and even referred Yonkers students to the school.

“Over the years I heard many good things about St. Dominic’s and when I learned about the position, without hesitation, I put myself in the running,” said Ms. La Due. “The moment I stepped foot into St. Dominic’s School I fell in love with everything about the place and was truly honored, humbled and grateful to be offered the principal position.”

Ms. La Due’s philosophy is to bring students to their full potential and meet with parents often to get them involved in the school.

“My three guiding principles for students are: smart, safe and social,” said Ms. La Due. “We will focus on these to ensure our students develop personal relationships, are happy to be in school, and know this is a safe place where they can succeed.