Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES has appointed Anthea Teska as Principal of Special Education, where she will support students and staff in the Union Springs and Moravia school districts.
Teska brings a diverse professional background to the role, including experience in environmental and vocational education. She began her career in natural resource conservation before transitioning into education, later earning her master’s degree from St. John Fisher University after working in environmental education in New York City and as a substitute teacher through Monroe One BOCES.
Teska said her leadership approach is centered on supporting educators and making their work more manageable.
“My job is to make everything easier for teachers to do their jobs,” she said.
As she steps into the position, Teska said her initial focus will be on listening and learning how best to support students, staff, and the overall system.
“My main goal is to watch and listen, and to figure out what ways that I can support the teachers, system, and kids the best,” she said.
She added that she is excited about the potential for growth across the program, both for students and educators.
Throughout her career, Teska said building connections with students has been especially meaningful. She recalled a recent classroom visit where a student gave her an origami gift, calling it her first as a principal.
She also reflected on a memorable moment from her internship at Seward Elementary School in Auburn, when students gave her a stuffed “Perry the Platypus” as a keepsake.
Outside of her professional role, Teska enjoys outdoor activities, including horseback riding and bird hunting.
Teska said she looks forward to building relationships and supporting continued success for students and staff in both districts as she begins her new role.
