Her Story
About Tara
Tara Agnello, M.S., C.A.S., BCBA, is a School Psychologist and Children’s Book Author in Clarence, New York, with 15 years of dedicated experience in school psychology and behavior analysis. She began her career as an aide in a specialized autism school before progressing into roles as a school psychologist and behavior analyst. Today, she serves with Clarence Central Schools, where she primarily supports children with disabilities and behavioral challenges. Her work includes providing consultation to teachers, parents, professionals, paraprofessionals, and administrators; developing safety, behavioral intervention, and crisis plans; conducting psychological testing and behavioral assessments; providing counseling; and helping teams navigate crisis de-escalation and challenging behaviors. Her approach is student-centered and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on research, best practices, and creating inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Agnello earned a B.S. in Psychology from the University at Buffalo and an M.S., C.A.S. in School Psychology from Niagara University, and she holds her BCBA certification from the Florida Institute of Technology. She is also a Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Trainer through Cornell University, where she helps professionals develop strategies for responding to challenging behaviors and supporting students during difficult situations. Over the course of her career, she has developed particular expertise in ADHD, informed by both her professional experience and her personal experience raising a son with severe ADHD. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to understanding children's behavioral and emotional needs and helping parents, educators, and professionals develop effective strategies for co-regulation and support.
Agnello is also bringing her expertise and personal perspective to her work as a children's book author. She is the author of Breathe, Little Buffalo, Breathe, a children's picture book and co-regulation guide for parents inspired by her own experiences and the need for accessible tools to help families navigate big emotions and challenging moments. The book is scheduled for release in December 2026 through Amazon and IngramSpark. Beyond her professional work, Agnello is the owner of City of Good Neighborz, an Etsy shop featuring Buffalo-themed jewelry and crafts. She enjoys hiking, skiing, yoga, and spending time outdoors with her two young sons. Through her career, creative work, and commitment to continued learning, she remains focused on helping children with disabilities feel supported, understood, and included.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tara
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a commitment to lifelong learning, a willingness to seek mentorship, and the courage to actively ask for feedback. Working with children with disabilities and behavioral challenges has taught me that there is always more to understand, particularly when it comes to the nervous system, co-regulation, and creating inclusive environments. My personal experiences as a parent have also deepened my perspective and strengthened my passion for helping children and families. I continue to grow by learning from colleagues, parents, students, and other professionals, while remaining open to new approaches that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children I serve.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the field is to remain lifelong learners and stay open to new opportunities and experiences. Rely on research, evidence-based practices, and current best practices to guide your work, while also seeking out mentors who can provide guidance, encouragement, and support throughout your career. I also encourage women to proactively ask administrators and colleagues for feedback on a regular basis, particularly in education, where feedback is not always offered unless you request it. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, challenge you to grow, and genuinely cheer you on.
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