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Aida Rivera was recently named the new Director of School & Services at our Throop school. In her new role, she’s focused on supporting staff, partnering closely with families and districts, and helping students build skills that last beyond the classroom.

Can you talk about your career trajectory and what led you to where you are now?
I came into education because I’ve always wanted to advocate for children, and my family’s experience with adoption and foster care shaped that passion early on. I started in early intervention, then taught in New York as a dual language teacher before moving to Pennsylvania and working in an alternative school setting. I spent many years as a special education teacher, earned my administrative certification, and later served in a large high school role. I chose this work because I want to make an impact every day. If I’m not impacting students, I’m not happy.

What do you love most about working in special education?
I love that special education makes space to recognize growth that might be missed in other settings. I truly believe in celebrating the wins, even when they seem small, because they matter so much to students and families. I also value being able to connect families to resources and opportunities they may not know are available. Providing kids with opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t have is a big part of why I do this work.

What makes our Throop school special?
The people make this place special. I see a team that’s collaborative, supportive, and highly knowledgeable. Most importantly, it’s clear that the staff genuinely care about students.

How would you describe your leadership style?
I’m a servant leader. My goal is to support the educators and staff who work with students every day. I focus on building strengths, helping staff grow where they need support, and making sure they have the time and tools to do their best work. When teachers feel supported and empowered, students benefit directly. I work to serve the people that I work with.

What is your vision for partnering with districts and families?
I want strong, consistent collaboration between districts, families, and community partners so that everyone is aligned on the same goals for each student. I think of it as a continuum, where school and home reinforce shared expectations and supports. Clear communication matters because student progress and needs do not stop at the school doors. I want everyone who is involved with the student to have a common goal. 

What does success look like over the next year?
I want to see a whole new roster of students next year. Success looks like students meeting the needs that brought them to New Story Schools and transitioning back to their home districts feeling confident and prepared. I want districts to see that behavioral needs have been addressed while academic progress stays strong, so returning does not feel like a shock. 

What is a fun fact about you?
I learned how to ride motorcycles a couple years ago. I’m also a dog rescuer.

Aida is stepping into her role at Throop with a clear focus: support the staff, strengthen partnerships, and help students build lasting skills for success. New Story Schools is excited to welcome her leadership at Throop.

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