Description

The Shenendehowa Board of Education is seeking an experienced school leader to work continuously and in partnership with the community to ensure that all students develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, abilities and character needed to live useful, productive and rewarding lives.

The next superintendent must be able to inspire students, teachers, staff, families, and community partners in a strong, collaborative manner and move the district forward on its mission and goals.

The Board is working with the Capital Region BOCES District Superintendent to conduct a confidential superintendent search, a process that has incorporated community and staff involvement. The Board seeks to implement a smooth transition for the administrative leadership of the district. We appreciate your interest in our schools.

Candidate Qualifications

The following characteristics will be vital to the success of the next Shenendehowa Superintendent of Schools.

Student-Centered Leadership. Demonstrate a genuine love for children and a deep commitment to supporting all students. Every decision should prioritize student success, well-being and safety, while actively protecting and improving the lives of both students and staff.

Authentic Educational Experience. Possess extensive classroom experience and understand the realities of teaching and learning. An advocate who values extracurricular programs, recognizing these as essential components of a well-rounded education.

Respectful and Inclusive Communication. Be a respectful and active listener who can create a culture where all voices are heard. Someone who will welcome diverse perspectives and be open-minded and fair, showing a willingness to act on feedback from students, parents, teachers, and staff alike.

Community Engagement and Accountability. Engage courageously with the broader community, building trust through transparency and presence in schools. The superintendent must hold themselves and others accountable for excellence, while remaining open to ideas and feedback from all stakeholders.

Firm Yet Compassionate Leadership. Ability to lead with consistency, compassion and strength, setting high expectations while supporting others in meeting them. Someone who can balance kindness with the ability to make tough decisions, demonstrating fairness, firmness, and follow-through.

Visionary and Values-Driven. Uphold strong values and ideals that reflect the district’s mission and the needs of the community. A leader who defines a clear, progressive vision for equitable and effective education, along with a commitment to supporting mental health and creating a safe, welcoming school environment.

Fiscal Responsibility and Strategic Thinking. Demonstrates a thoughtful and transparent approach to resource allocation, with financial decisions guided by community input and a commitment to fiscal responsibility that supports long-term educational goals.

Compassionate and Visible. Personable, approachable, and genuinely invested in the lives of students and staff. Demonstrates kindness, empathy, and a love for their work, while also being flexible, patient, and open to new ideas. A strong leader who models humility and a commitment to continuous learning and emerging trends in education. Someone who maintains a presence in schools to understand experiences of students and staff to build a supportive and inclusive environment.

About the position

The Board of Education will offer a three-year contract with a regionally competitive salary ranging from $230,000 - $260,000, commensurate with the preparation, qualifications, experience, and record of the successful candidate, as well as an attractive benefits package. Candidates who are willing to relocate and/or reside in the district are preferred. The new superintendent to be involved in school and community events and activities.

Application timeline

• Application materials must be delivered by 5 p.m. on January 6, 2026.
• Anticipated announcement - Spring 2026.

Application procedures

Candidates should send one email with the following attachments by 5 p.m. on January 6, 2026:

• Cover letter
• Current resume
• The completed PDF application (applications can be found on https://www.shenschools.org/superintendent-search)
• Official transcripts
• All teaching and administrative certificates

MATERIALS SHOULD BE E-MAILED TO:

Lauren J. Gemmill, District Superintendent

c/o Nicole Coleman

Capital Region BOCES

900 Watervliet-Shaker Road

Albany, NY 12205

(518) 862-4901

Nicole.Coleman@neric.org