Elmont resident appointed program coordinator at Nassau BOCES’ Barry Tech

Elmont resident Abigail Smith-Lockett was named late last month as the new coordinator of in-district programs at the Joseph M. Barry Career & Technical Education Center, a career and technical field school run by Nassau BOCES.

Lockett will manage the technical education, or CTE, programs at the five in-district programs offered by Nassau BOCES, in the Baldwin, Hicksville, Roosevelt, Uniondale and Westbury school districts.

“I have always had a passion for ensuring that students receive the best possible training and instruction to prepare them for college and careers,” Lockett said in a statement released by Nassau BOCES. “It gives me great pleasure to be in a role where I can assist students in their efforts to obtain the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in their future endeavors.”

Lockett has served in various educational leadership roles in Nassau and Suffolk counties as well as New York City. She was the dean of restorative justice and a technology teacher at the New York City Department of Education’s Academy for Scholarship & Entrepreneurship. She has also been the college and career coordinator at Bronxwood Preparatory Academy, the manager of business operations for Manhasset Public Schools, teacher integration specialist for Eastern Suffolk BOCES and the business administrator for pupil personnel services for Hempstead Public Schools.

“Dr. Lockett brings a wealth of experience to the position,” Nassau BOCES said in the statement.

For 55 years, Nassau BOCES has offered programs for those of all ages, including adult education and a variety of programs aimed at improving the Long Island economy. Barry Tech courses aim to provide both theory and practical application to help students develop and expand their skills and to build confidence, according to the organization.

Lockett, who earned a master’s in human resources and counseling from the University of Bridgeport and a doctoral degree in education administration, leadership and technology from Dowling College, also holds certifications in school business administration, school district administration and school administration and supervision.

“I look forward to building relationships with all the participating districts’ administration and staff, and our CTE teachers working in the program,” Lockett said of her aspirations at Barry Tech. “My goal is to ensure that all in-district students are introduced to career awareness and opportunities, and obtain technical and career-readiness skills in their respective CTE field. I also want to ensure they are provided with the skills needed for employment and/or secondary education.”