School district leaders are in an ideal position to make a difference in children’s lives despite the mounting challenges surrounding education and schools.
That was the overriding message from the state education commissioner, local schools superintendents and others who spoke at a program last week held at the Yorktown campus of Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES. The Aspiring Superintendent Workshop attracted about 35 school leaders from Westchester, Putnam, Long Island and upstate counties who were interested in learning more about the demanding job of running a school district.
“The program was a positive signal to participants that we need our shining stars to step up and take on the challenges ahead,” said BOCES’ Assistant Superintendent Lynn Allen.
Find out what's happening in Yorktown-Somerswith free, real-time updates from Patch.
BOCES’ Center for Educational Leadership partnered with the Leadership for Educational Achievement Foundation, the professional development arm of the New York State Council of School Superintendents, to run the all-day program.
State Education Commissioner Dr. John B. King, Jr. thanked participants for pursuing educational leadership positions that would enable them to help mold schools and urged them to continue working to improve education in the state.
Find out what's happening in Yorktown-Somerswith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Dr. Robert J. Reidy, Jr., executive director of the superintendents’ council and a former longtime superintendent, said that becoming a district leader offered a wonderful opportunity “to support children, teachers and administrators.” He urged participants to reflect on what motivated them to lead schools.
“It’s a tough job with significant challenges,” Reidy said. “It is important to consider the legacy you want to leave and align your focus, goals and actions with that.”
Other speakers at the conference included Somers Superintendent Dr. Raymond Blanch; North Salem Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Freeston; Bedford Superintendent Dr. Jere Hochman; and BOCES Assistant Superintendent John McCarthy; and Dr. Thomas Higgins, retired BOCES assistant superintendent.
The speakers outlined the rewards and challenges of leading a school district. They also spoke about superintendents’ educational and financial leadership roles, the importance of building relationships with changing school boards and the personal challenges associated with the job.
"I found it to be informative and insightful. The speakers spoke honestly and shared their own experiences, which were interesting and relevant," said Jean Miccio, assistant superintendent for instruction in the Lakeland Central School District. "We all know that the position of the Superintendent is difficult and complex. They talked about common mistakes that should be avoided and the need to look at our own leadership styles."
