Liverpool Administrator Named NYS Outstanding Educator

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Dana Ziegler

ALBANY, NY (03/18/2025) (readMedia)-- Dana Ziegler, executive director of Curriculum for the Liverpool Central School District, has been selected for the 2025 Outstanding Educator Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). This award is given annually to a SAANYS member who has made outstanding contributions in New York State schools through public education, professional organizations, or research and/or writing in the field of education.

Ziegler's career in education is defined by her deep commitment to student achievement, instructional excellence, and collaborative leadership. As principal of Nate Perry Elementary, one of her most significant accomplishments was fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence as a service leader. Under her guidance, high-functioning professional learning communities flourished, enabling educators to work cohesively to meet the diverse needs of students. When the time came to close the school, Ziegler approached the challenge with deep respect for the community, ensuring a transition that honored its legacy while embracing new opportunities for growth and learning.

Now serving as the executive director of curriculum for Liverpool's school district, Ziegler has led a systematic, district-wide implementation of the Science of Reading across Liverpool's K-12 system. Recognizing the transformative impact of evidence-based literacy practices, she spearheaded efforts to align instruction, resources, and professional development, ensuring consistency and effectiveness at every grade level. This initiative has enhanced student outcomes, bridged literacy gaps, and empowered all learners with the foundational skills essential for lifelong success.

Central to Ziegler's impact is her focus on research-based best practices such as direct, explicit instruction and spaced retrieval. Direct, explicit instruction emphasizes clear, systematic teaching of skills and concepts, ensuring all students, including those who may struggle, receive the necessary support to succeed. Spaced retrieval enhances long-term learning and retention by strategically revisiting material, reinforcing knowledge, and strengthening cognitive connections over time.

Recently, Ziegler joined the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Taskforce and the Advanced Tech Framework initiative, further demonstrating her dedication to advancing education in New York State. She is also an active leader in professional organizations such as SAANYS, where she is a Government Relations Committee member, and the New York State Association for Women in Administration (NYSAWA), where she has held the position of CNY affiliate president since 2021. Additionally, she has been a member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) since 2012, continuously advocating for the professional growth of educators in New York.

Kasey Dolson, assistant superintendent of curriculum, instruction, and assessment, praised Ziegler's dedication and leadership, stating, "Throughout her career, Dana has demonstrated unparalleled dedication, leadership, and service to public education in New York State. Her contributions have not only enriched our district but have had a lasting impact on the broader educational community."

Heather Silvia, principal of Donlin Drive Elementary School, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Ziegler's ability to drive significant improvements in student achievement and instructional quality. "Her collaborative approach to leadership has fostered a culture of continuous growth and learning among teachers, and her unwavering dedication to ensuring that all students reach their full potential is truly inspiring."

Ziegler has previously held positions as middle school principal at Morgan Road Middle School (2022) and elementary school principal at Nate Perry Elementary School (2012-2022). She received her bachelor's degree from Rutgers University, her master's degree from LeMoyne College, and an administrative certification from Oswego State University.

Ziegler and fellow 2025 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration, taking place on May 2 at the Desmond Hotel-Crown Plaza Albany.

SAANYS represents nearly 22,000 school administrators, supervisors, and retired educational leaders. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to its members in their efforts to enhance education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).