Christina M. Foti

Chief of Special Education for the New York City Public Schools (NYCPS)

Christina Foti serves as the Chief of Special Education for the New York City Public Schools (NYCPS), overseeing initiatives impacting over 270,000 students and families across various sectors. During her tenure, Foti has led initiatives aimed at improving the educational experience for students with disabilities. These initiatives include establishing free sensory spaces, creating Transition and College Access Centers, expanding preschool special education programs, and organizing the city’s first personalized learning symposium for students with disabilities. Under Foti’s leadership, specialized programs for students with autism, intellectual disabilities, physical accessibility needs, and bilingual special education needs have significantly expanded.

Christina’s leadership at the Special Education Office has garnered international recognition, providing the New York City Public Schools with opportunities for collaboration with global leaders and educators. Notably, she represented NYCPS at the UNESCO International Forum on Inclusion and Equity in Education, facilitating discussions on innovative policies and practices to promote inclusion and equity in education worldwide.

Before joining the Special Education Office, Foti served as the principal of P.S. 231K, recognized for its innovative approach by being designated as a “Showcase School.” Foti holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Women’s Studies from Vassar College, a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the City University of New York, and a Postgraduate Degree in Education Leadership from Hunter College. Currently, she is pursuing doctoral studies at Columbia University’s Teachers College.