AHS Teacher Profile: Amy Palatucci

New to the Arcadia administration staff, Ms. Palatucci joined Arcadia’s Assistant Principal team over the summer.  When you visit her office, be prepared for a positive reception from a person who is clearly passionate about her job and about Arcadia’s students.  As Assistant Principal, she is responsible for student services, graduation, testing, student government, code of conduct, dress code, and serving as an instructional leader for teachers.

Although this is her first year at Arcadia, she has many years of experience in a variety of educational capacities, providing her with a unique perspective.  For the past 12 years, Ms. Palatucci worked in the field of special education.  She first began as a paraeducator at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in 2005.  She then became a Behavior Specialist at the same school in 2009.  In 2011, she moved to Arizona and taught Special Education at Chaparral High School.  She became the Department Chair of Special Education at Chaparral in 2013.  Her education includes:

• Bachelor’s Degree- K-12 Special Education; Carlow University in Pittsburgh
• Bachelor’s Degree- Elementary Education; Carlow University in Pittsburgh
• Master of Education- Educational Leadership with Principalship Certi; GCU
• Certified trainer for the Crisis Prevention Institute since 2009

Arcadia’s teachers describe Ms. Palatucci as easy-going while exceeding expectations.  She is decisive, not afraid to answer tough questions, ready to help when needed, and is committed to building positive relationships among the entire Arcadia community.  She obviously has what is best for the kids at the center of her decision-making.  

Ms. Palatucci grew up in Pittsburgh, PA.  Her favorite class as a student at Brentwood High School was English because she always loved to read.  She came to Phoenix just as a tourist, and decided to move here.  She has a large extended family, including a little brother, and although her entire family lives in Pittsburgh, they are still close-knit.  She visits home a couple times of year.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT ARCADIA:
I love having the opportunity to help people the skills to be successful in life and helping students realize and reach their potential.    I also love the diversity of the students at Arcadia and getting to know all the students as individuals.  

HOBBIES OR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WHEN NOT WORKING
I love to travel, read, watch movies, swim, and play with my dog    

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD?
Every day I find new things to be proud of!    

DOG OR CAT?
Dog!  I have a very old Miniature Pincher named Ricco.  

A RANDOM FACT ABOUT MS PALATUCCI
I lived and taught Special Education in Ireland for 3 months

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