Superintendent Dr. Peter Sanchioni is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Kraeger as the Executive Director of Student Services, Health, Safety and Well-Being for Newport Public Schools. Ms. Kraeger will officially begin her new role on August 6, 2026.
Ms. Kraeger brings more than three decades of experience in public education and over 25 years of distinguished leadership in special education and student services. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving educational opportunities for all students while fostering inclusive learning environments that support academic achievement, wellness, and student success.
Most recently, Ms. Kraeger has served as Assistant Superintendent for Student Services in the Tiverton Public Schools, where she has provided strategic leadership for student services across five schools serving approximately 1,600 students. In that role, she oversaw a $10 million budget, launched district-wide initiatives focused on academic intervention and student wellness, and advised the Superintendent and School Committee on policy, personnel, and program development.
Prior to her work in Tiverton, Ms. Kraeger spent more than two decades with the Newport County Regional Special Education Program, including nine years as Executive Director of Special Education. During her tenure, she successfully led special education services across multiple districts, managed budgets exceeding $12 million, strengthened partnerships with educators and families, and ensured full compliance with federal and state special education requirements. Her extensive experience serving students and families throughout Aquidneck Island provides her with a deep understanding of the local educational community.
Ms. Kraeger holds a Master's Degree in Special Education and Administrator Certification from Providence College and is professionally certified by the Rhode Island Department of Education as a Superintendent of Schools, Administrator of Special Education, and teacher in both elementary and special education.
"Sarah is an exceptional educational leader whose experience, knowledge, and commitment to students make her an outstanding addition to the Newport Public Schools," said Dr. Peter Sanchioni, Superintendent. "She has built an outstanding reputation throughout Rhode Island for her collaborative leadership, deep understanding of student services, and unwavering advocacy for children and families. Sarah understands that supporting the whole child means ensuring every student has access to the academic, social, emotional, health, and behavioral supports they need to thrive. I am confident she will have an immediate and lasting positive impact on our students, staff, and school community."
As Executive Director of Student Services, Health, Safety and Well-Being, Ms. Kraeger will provide leadership for the district's special education services, student support programs, health services, school safety initiatives, and wellness efforts. She will work collaboratively with school administrators, teachers, staff, families, and community partners to strengthen systems of support that ensure every student can succeed.
"I am honored to join the Newport Public Schools and excited to work alongside the dedicated educators, staff, families, and community partners who are committed to supporting every student," said Ms. Kraeger. "I look forward to building strong relationships and continuing to develop programs that promote student achievement, well-being, and equitable opportunities for all learners."
Newport Public Schools welcomes Ms. Kraeger and looks forward to the leadership and expertise she will bring as the district continues its commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities and comprehensive support for every student.