Paula Mack is a passionate and experienced school building leader dedicated to empowering students, families, and educators through equity-driven leadership. With a strong track record as a Principal and Leading Schools in New York City elementary schools, she specializes in fostering inclusive, high-achieving environments that connect home, school, and community.
Paula holds New York State certifications in School Building Leadership, Special Education, and General Education. She earned an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, an M.S. in Educational Leadership and an Advanced Certificate in School Building and District Leadership an M.A.S. in Special Education, a B.S. in Early Childhood Education, and an A.A.S. in Early Childhood/Elementary Education.
As a certified School Building Leader in New York, Paula will complete her EdD May’26 and has led special education initiatives, coached instructional staff, and strengthened family engagement with a deep focus on student well-being and academic excellence. A committed parent advocate, she prioritizes transparent communication and collaborative problem-solving to support every child’s success.
1. What inspired you to work in the field of education, specializing in autism?
My first time assisting a family to receive the school setting necessary for their child was rewarding and inspiring. I am inspired and motivated by families and children who require my advocacy work where I help families navigate systems and secure the services their children needed, which showed me how powerful true partnership can be. Those experiences continue to fuel my passion for supporting students and empowering families. I’ve always believed that parents are a child’s first teacher, and that success comes from strong connections between home, school, and community. I’ve worked with children with special needs, particularly those on the autism spectrum, and I saw both their unique strengths and the challenges their families faced. This inspires me to advocate for parents and students, and to create learning environments where every child is supported and celebrated.
2. Can you tell us a little about your background and experience before joining Gersh?
Before joining Gersh, I spent over 25 years as an education leader serving as a teacher, principal, education consultant, school building leader, adjunct professor, oversight of various school buildings, SEIT Supervisor, professional trainer, and other related service roles on education. I’m working on my dissertation for my Doctoral degree in Education Leadership. I graduate May ‘26. I hold an Ed.S doctoral degree in Education Leadership and 2 master’s degrees (one in special education). I am a certified School Building Leader and a Certified Special Educator/General Educator. My education, education experience, and work in the education arena have always centered on assessing the needs of students and staff, building strong school systems, using data to support instruction, establishing a school culture, and providing professional development that empowers teachers. I’ve also worked closely with parents to ensure they feel connected, informed, and supported throughout their child’s educational journey.
3. What drew you to Gersh Autism Academy?
The mission drew me in. Gersh truly sees and supports the whole child while valuing family partnerships. The Academy recognizes the importance of individualized education and strong collaboration between school, home, and community. Gersh Autism aligns with my passion for advocating for families and children with special needs. That vision aligns perfectly with my passion for advocacy, leadership, education and making sure every student is given the opportunity to thrive.
4. What does your role at Gersh look like day to day?
Day to day, my role is a mix of many hats. I support teachers in the classroom, helping them with strategies for behavior, curriculum, and lesson planning. I assess student needs and work with families to make sure home and school are connected. I also provide training and coaching for staff, because when teachers feel supported, students benefit. Every day is different, but at the HEART of it …it’s about making sure each child feels safe, seen, and capable.
5. What do you hope to bring to your school/community/team/students in the coming year?
This year, I hope to continue to strengthen the bridge between parents, teachers, and the community. I want families to feel like true partners, teachers to feel supported in their practice, and students to feel safe, capable, and celebrated. My goal is to foster togetherness, plus establish a culture of collaboration and encouragement where everyone can grow and children learn.
6. What’s one thing you’ve learned from your students or staff that’s stuck with you?
Over the years: My students have taught me that progress doesn’t always look the same it can be a small step or a big leap, but each moment matters. From staff, I’ve learned that teamwork and dedication can transform a school community. Those lessons continue to shape how I lead and support others daily.
7. Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?
I enjoy African Dance it’s both energizing and grounding. I also love binge watching law shows and series. On top of that, I spend time giving back through community service by feeding the homeless and connecting with family. For me, balance comes from doing the things that bring joy while staying connected to the people and communities I care about.
8. What would you say to a family considering Gersh Autism Academy for their child?
I would say that Gersh is more than a school it’s a supportive community that partners with families every step of the way. We value parents as their child’s first teacher, and we work to make sure the home and school connection is strong. Here, your child will be understood, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential, both academically (through differentiated instruction and individualized plan) and socially with staff that truly care.