Biographical Information
Dr. Mara Ratesic- Koetke is currently the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the Bronxville School in Westchester County, New York. Under Dr. Koetke’s leadership, the district created and implemented the Bronxville Promise, which stands as a commitment to teaching students to lead, innovate, think critically, and engage the world around them. Additionally, in the year 2022, the Bronxville School was ranked #1 in New York State based on NY State Assessment results in English Language Arts and Mathematics for students in elementary and middle school. Prior to her work in Bronxville, Dr. Koetke was the Principal of the Lower Laboratory School for Gifted Education, PS #77, a New York City Public School. Dr. Koetke’s career began in Prince George’s County, Maryland, which led her to further her study at Teachers College, Columbia University. Her dissertation, entitled, “White Teacher: African American Classroom” explored the intersection between race and teacher practice. She has written and lectured extensively on educational leadership, curriculum development, using data for instructional change, and gifted education. Her real world expertise in educational leadership brings life to theory, and she is thrilled to return to her alma mater to support the next generation of educational leaders in the SPA program.