Croton-Harmon's Dr. O'Connell Recognized for Excellence in Administration

From the Croton-Harmon School District:

CROTON-ON-HUDSON, NY - Croton-Harmon School District Assistant Superintendent Dr. Deborah O’Connell has been selected by the Mid-Hudson School Study Council as a recipient of the annual Awards for Excellence in Administration for 2016-17.

Dr. O’Connell has served as assistant superintendent for four years. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward R. Fuhrman Jr. praised her vision and role in the district.

“It is important to note that in our school district, the assistant superintendent has a wide range of responsibilities,” said Dr. Fuhrman. “These include the areas of curriculum, instruction, assessment, professional development and technology. As a member of the central office team, the assistant superintendent is also a major player in the areas of special education and budget development. My own leadership style is collaborative in nature; therefore, Dr. O’Connell is involved in every aspect of our district.”

During her tenure in the district, Dr. O’Connell has led the revision of the teacher evaluation process based on best practices research. She is also currently heading up efforts to develop common grade-level assessments based on the district’s mission and vision and implement student engagement and project-based learning.

“On many occasions I have heard Dr. O’Connell describe in detail how she engages the educators in the district in these initiatives, promoting the ownership that is so important if change is to be successful,” Dr. Fuhrman added. “It is this hands-on style of leadership that builds mutual respect and makes change possible. [She] represents the best of our profession. She never forgets that it is the children that matter and that every decision made must keep what is best for the children at the center.”

Photo Caption: Croton-Harmon School District Assistant Superintendent Dr. Deborah O’Connell was recognized by the Mid-Hudson School Study Council as a recipient of an Award for Excellence in Administration.

Photo courtesy of the Croton-Harmon School District.