Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen is proud to announce two exciting leadership appointments for the upcoming school year. Dr. Jasmine Shepherd has been named the new Principal of Howell Road Elementary School, and Dr. Amanda King will serve as the Assistant Principal and pre-kindergarten coordinator.
Dr. Jasmine Shepherd, a seasoned educational leader with over 17 years of experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her new role. She holds a Doctorate in Education, a dual Master’s degree in School Administration and Childhood Education, and New York State certifications in grades 1-6 teaching, School Building Leadership, and School District Leadership.
Throughout her career, Dr. Shepherd has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence and instructional leadership. She has played pivotal roles as both an Assistant Principal and summer school Principal, designing and implementing ELA and math pacing guides, leading instructional walk-throughs, and supporting teacher development through evaluations, data-driven instructional meetings, and coaching aligned with NYSUT and Danielson frameworks.
Dr. Shepherd most recently served as an Assistant Principal in the Hempstead Union Free School District and as an adjunct professor at the University of Mount Saint Vincent. Her prior leadership roles include summer school principal at Nassau BOCES and assistant principal at Challenge Preparatory Charter School.
Joining her is Dr. Amanda King, who will serve as an Assistant Principal at both Howell Road and Wheeler Avenue elementary schools while also acting as the pre-kindergarten coordinator. Dr. King is an accomplished educator with a Doctorate in Learning and Teaching, a Master of Arts, a Bachelor of Science in Music Education, and an Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership—all from Hofstra University. She holds multiple New York State certifications, including School Building Leader, District Leader, and Music Education (K-12).
Dr. King began her career in 2016 as the general music and choir director at Willow Road Elementary School, where she led the development of a districtwide K-6 general music curriculum. Her passion for teaching and collaboration was evident as she mentored student teachers, partnered with faculty from Hofstra, Adelphi University, and Queens College, and supported students with special needs through coordinated efforts with fellow educators.
She has held several key leadership positions, including summer school Principal at Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen, where she oversaw four major summer programs. As teacher-in-charge at Willow Road, Dr. King supported daily school operations, conflict resolution, and districtwide initiatives. She actively contributed to the building and district Shared Decision-Making, Hiring, Professional Development, and Assessment committees, and regularly participated in IST and CSE meetings.
The Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen community is thrilled to welcome Dr. Shepherd and Dr. King to their new roles. Their combined experience, dedication, and student-centered vision are sure to bring continued growth, innovation, and excellence to the school.
