SAANYS Meets with New Commissioner

On July 8, Executive Director Kevin Casey, Don Nickson, and Jim Viola met with MaryEllen Elia, who commenced her tenure as New York State’s first female commissioner the prior day. Commissioner Elia summarized her experiences as a teacher, school administrator, and district administrator; and expressed her intention to establish strong educational partnerships in the state. The meeting did not dwell on niceties, but quickly segued to substantive discussions regarding APPR, receivership, administrative certification, and the designation of Blue Ribbon Schools. It is planned that SAANYS will continue to meet with the commissioner and members of her leadership team on approximately a monthly basis.