Now & Then: Terri Lynn Ricetti

NVUSD’s Executive Director of Special Education Services believes her Napa High teachers helped prepare her for a future as an educator. That future in education has benefited NVUSD students for nearly 20 years and has taken Ms. Ricetti through many meaningful positions and experiences. 

According to Ms. Ricetti, there were many Napa High teachers who reached out to support her when she needed it, they went “above and beyond to keep me engaged in school and on track to graduate. When I lost my way, they were the ones who took the extra time to reach out to me, to listen, to let me know that my presence in their classes was not just expected, but wanted. It is those relationships that I have kept in mind when I have had students who struggle and need an anchor of support.”

Since joining NVUSD in August 2003, Ms. Ricetti has been that anchor of support for the wonderful students and programs she oversees. It appears she has somewhat seamlessly traversed the role of specialist, coordinator, director, and now, executive director. Her accomplishments are reflected in so many areas, including her selection as the Association of California School Administrators (ASCA) Special Education Administrator of the Year for 2022. 

Ms. Ricetti hopes to continue that great work, sharing, “My hope now is that the work I do inspires teachers to be an anchor of support for the students they work with every day.” 

We know she inspires others every day. 

Learn more about how Ms. Ricetti responds to the needs of students here!