New Director of Special Services 'Privileged' to Join Lacey

The Board of Education appointed Michael Maschi as the new district Director of Special Services at Monday’s meeting.

Maschi will be replacing current district Supervisor of Special Services Thomas Dorso who is retiring as of Saturday, June 30. Dorso made $135,589 while Maschi will be earning $126,600 pro-rated. His start date has yet to be announced.

“Michael went through a very rigorous process and was certainly set a part right out of the game, first round and second round, with not only his expertise and education but also his knowledge and passion of what is most important when we’re talking about educating students who have different needs,” Superintendent Dr. Sandra Brower said.

Maschi, a Barnegat resident, has a Masters in Social Work, a Masters in Sociology and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology all from the State University of New York. He is currently serving in the district of Little Silver in Monmouth County as Supervisor of Special Services and previously worked for the Barnegat school district as well.

He has also been a school social worker and served in several medical centers in New York working with students, adolescents and young adults at risk, Brower said.

“It’s my pleasure and privilege and I’m very excited about the opportunity to join the Lacey team,” Maschi said at last night’s school board meeting.

Maschi gave kudos to the district, students, teachers, parents and community for a “fantastic” meeting. “I’m truly overwhelmed by the amount of energy and enthusiasm that went into recognizing the teachers and the fantastic students of this district.

“Lacey schools have a fine reputation and I hope that my skills and my enthusiasm and my energy can compliment all the good things that are happening here,” he said.

Maschi is looking forward to improving the special education program options in the district as well as the network of services that special need students have access to, he said.

“I look forward to working with parents, teachers, the Board of Education and any and all people who collaborate to make the lives of special need students better,” he said.