Dear Schenectady Community,

I am reaching out to students, parents, families, and members of the community to introduce myself as your new incoming Superintendent of Schools for the Schenectady City School District. Before I go further, I want to thank the Schenectady Board of Education for their confidence in me.  I recognize the long journey they have endured in finding the right leader for Schenectady. I know the process has been difficult, and at times unpredictable but I believe now with my selection it is time for ALL of us to move forward together, as one district focused, with one focus – student success.

I consider it a true privilege and honor to be selected as your next Superintendent.  I come to Schenectady as a 21-year New York educator with both educational and leadership experiences in Rochester, Buffalo and currently as Superintendent of Schools in Batavia, NY.  Throughout my professional journey, I have been a teacher, instructional technology specialist, Academy Director, Principal at both the elementary and secondary levels, and an Associate Superintendent. 

Personally, I am a father of four amazing kids and husband to a supportive and loving wife.  I am also extremely proud of my Latino culture and heritage.   I grew up in Rochester New York to a loving mother and wonderful grandparents who all helped to raise me.  However, like many children who grow up in first generation urban environments if it wasn’t for loving and caring educators, coaches, and mentors I would never have taken the path that leads me here today.  I look forward to the community getting to know me and to learning more about all of you and the City of Schenectady. 

As I enter Schenectady, I know there is much to celebrate and build upon within the district.  I know of the resilience and passion of Schenectady teachers, staff and administration who worked through a global pandemic to support the children of Schenectady.  I know that the growing financial impact on the city of Schenectady caused by COVID-19 at times seems unsolvable.  I am aware that the national polarized landscape on the work around equity, inclusivity and diversity but am also committed to ensuring that all students and members of our district have a voice and feel represented in our curriculum, decision making and path forward.

I also know there is a significant amount of work ahead in Schenectady.  It is my goal to unite our district and to build upon our current successes but to also address the areas that need to be improved upon to move our district forward.  Under my leadership, I want our district to be known for providing students high quality educational experiences, boundless opportunities, dynamic and equitable supports while also being fiscally sound and responsible.

As we come out of this pandemic and return to more “normal” activities I look forward to working with key stakeholders.  As a school district, we will engage our community and have the necessary conversations about what our children need with our students, our staff, our educational leaders, our business owners, and our elected officials. As we challenge ourselves to reimagine the critical work around our students and in our schools, I will need all of you to help me make Schenectady the finest district in the Capital Region. I unequivocally believe that collectively, and by working together we will be able to make a difference in the lives of all children.

Yours in service,

Anibal Soler, Jr.