DISTRICT NEWS & NOTES 

Mr. Jonathan Parks Appointed Saranac Superintendent of Schools

The Saranac Central School District has concluded its search for a new Superintendent. At its April 7 meeting, the Saranac Board of Education appointed Mr. Jonathan Parks as the new Superintendent of Schools for the Saranac Central School District. Mr. Parks is currently the Saranac High School Principal. The appointment is effective July 1, 2014.

According to Saranac Board of Education President Tracy Allen Waite, “We were very impressed with the pool of candidates forwarded to us during our recent superintendent search. Jon Parks, as a dedicated, valued member of our district for more than 12 years stood out as the most qualified candidate. He has demonstrated strong leadership skills, a commitment to excellence, and extensive knowledge in the area of curriculum. Mr. Parks knows the district, the students, the parents, and the community.”

Jonathan Parks is excited to continue working with the Saranac school community, saying, “I’ve had such a wonderful experience during the past twelve years and I look forward to the next set of challenges in my new role. The students, the parents, the staff and the members of the Board of Education should be proud of what has been created here and I will work hard to keep the district moving forward and to focus on providing the best educational opportunities for our children.”

“I’d like to take this opportunity,” said Parks, “to thank everyone for all their support and encouragement during the selection process and I thank the Board for putting their trust in me. I am also greatly indebted to Mr. Ken Cringle for the guidance he has provided over the years. My best wishes to him and his family as he begins the next chapter of his life.”

Capital Project Update:  On December 13, 2011, the voters of the Saranac Central School District approved a $5.6 million energy, health and safety capital improvement project.  To keep the community informed of the project progress, please take a moment to review the Capital Project link updated as of January 23, 2014.

Common Core State Standards (CCSS):  The NYS Board of Regents adopted the New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards in January 2011.  The English Language Arts and Math standards were implemented throughout NYS schools beginning in the 2012-2013 school year.  The standards have been adopted by 45 States and are designed to reflect the knowledge and skills our students need for success in college and careers.  To inform and assist parents, teachers and administrators with the implementation of the CCSS, the NYS Education Department encourages individuals to utilize the following website:  www.engageny.org.  Once on the site, please click on one of the following six (6) tabs:  Common Core Curriculum and Assessments; Teacher/Leader Effectiveness; Data Driven Instruction; Video Library; Professional Development and Network teams; and Parent & Family Resources.  Refer to Frequently Asked Questions.

Community Feedback:  To strengthen our capacity to improve, we need and value community input.  Please take a moment to provide us with your thoughts and comments regarding any school matter.  Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .