Member News

Latham, NY (June 15, 2025) – Wildwood School is pleased to announce the appointment of Michele Manners as Program Administrator. With more than 20 years of experience in public education, Manners will oversee the High School program, providing instructional leadership, supporting teacher development, and ensuring the effective implementation of students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). In her new role, she will also help facilitate professional development opportunities and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to foster continuous growth among educators.

Manners joins Wildwood School following a successful tenure as a Building Principal with the Schenectady City School District. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for cultivating positive, student-centered learning environments and fostering strong, meaningful partnerships between schools and families.

She earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from SUNY Plattsburgh and later received a degree in Literature from Russell Sage College. Manners subsequently returned to SUNY Plattsburgh to complete her School Building Leader and School District Leader certifications.

“Wildwood is excited to welcome Michele to our leadership team,” said William Clooney, Director of Education at Wildwood School. “Throughout her career, she has established a strong reputation for creating positive, student-centered environments and developing meaningful partnerships with families. Her collaborative approach aligns perfectly with Wildwood’s mission, and I look forward to working alongside her to support our educators and students.”

For nearly 60 years, Wildwood has been committed to providing comprehensive supports and services to individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities, complex learning disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. Approved by the New York State Education Department, Wildwood School serves students ages 5–22 from approximately 60 school districts across 14 counties.