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Through personalized coaching and consulting, Dr. Gassaway supports superintendents and principals in elevating school culture, strengthening leadership capacity, and effectively managing crises to drive lasting improvement.
Dr. Bernard Gassaway
Nationally Recognized Educator | Author | Advocate for Educational Equity
Dr. Bernard Gassaway is a nationally recognized educator, author, and advocate for children whose distinguished career reflects more than three decades of leadership in urban public education. Born in Macon, Georgia, and raised in New York City, Dr. Gassaway has devoted his life to advancing educational equity, developing effective school leaders, and ensuring that all children have access to high-quality learning opportunities.
He began his career as a classroom teacher in Queens, New York, and later joined Boys and Girls High School, where he taught English and computer literacy. His exceptional leadership led to a series of pioneering appointments, including his distinction as the first African American Assistant Principal of Pupil Personnel Services at Far Rockaway High School and the first African American principal of Beach Channel High School.
Throughout his career, Dr. Gassaway has been recognized for his visionary leadership and commitment to student achievement. He is the recipient of the New York State Title I Distinguished Educator Award and was honored as Queens Educator of the Year by both the Queens Borough President’s African American Advisory Council and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
As Senior Superintendent for Alternative Schools and Programs in New York City, Dr. Gassaway oversaw initiatives that transformed educational outcomes for thousands of at-risk students. A Revson Fellow at Columbia University, he has consistently championed educational reform grounded in integrity, courage, and service to children.
Dr. Gassaway earned his Doctorate in Education Leadership from Columbia University’s Teachers College. The author of five books, including Reflections of an Urban High School Principal and The Edge of Leadership: Fight for Children No Matter the Cost, he continues to inspire educators and leaders to act with purpose, equity, and conviction.