Croton-Harmon Schools Pick New Superintendent

CROTON-ON-HUDSON, NY — A new superintendent has been selected for the Croton-Harmon school district, and the name will not be unfamiliar. Dr. Deborah O’Connell was chosen by the board of education to take over the top job effective July 1. She has served as the district’s assistant superintendent since 2001, responsible for K-12 curriculum, instruction, assessment and data initiatives, professional development, teacher observations and contract negotiations.

O’Connell will replace Dr. Edward R. Fuhrman Jr., who announced his retirement at the end of the current school year.

Board of Education President Iris Bugliosi said three finalists met with an extensive community stakeholder committee.

“Dr. O’Connell emerged as a student-centered, inclusive leader who embraces a supportive community that is committed to educating the whole child in ways that empower and challenge our students rigorously and personally,” she said.

Before joining Croton-Harmon, O’Connell worked in the Clarkstown Central School District for 16 years, serving as deputy superintendent of schools for two years, from 2009 to 2011. She also served Clarkstown as associate superintendent for personnel, K-12 curriculum and instruction, and as associate superintendent for personnel.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences from Saint Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, a master’s degree in secondary science education from Long Island University, and a doctorate in instructional leadership from St. John’s University in Queens. Her work has been published in The American Biology Teacher, the New York ASCD Journal,and other publications.

O’Connell said it was an honor and privilege to be chosen as the next superintendent for the district.

“I am looking forward to continuing our legacy of excellence in education as your superintendent,” she said.

Photo caption: Dr. Deborah O’Connell. Photo credit: Croton-Harmon School District.