Dear Community Members:
Following an in-depth hiring process, including the diligence of an 18 member interview committee representing all stakeholders, I want to inform the community that I am recommending that Dr. Jeremy Luft be appointed by the Board of Education to the position of Director of Learning and Innovative Educational Opportunities on Thursday, April 6. The committee screened 13 candidates and conducted lengthy interviews of 3 finalists. The process ended with an interview with the Board of Education.
Dr. Luft’s background includes teaching of high school physics for four years in North Rockland, Director of Technology at the Ossining School District for seven years, and most recently, Director of Instruction at the Hastings School District. At Hastings he was collaborating with staff to build an ELA curriculum beginning at the elementary school, observed and supervised teachers, and supported K-12 staff. Dr. Luft has his B.S. in Physics from SUNY Albany and did semiconductor research on thin film technology and microchips. He has his Masters from Pace, and most recently, his Ed.D. from Manhattanville. He has been the recipient of a number of awards, including New York State Outstanding Technology Leader and Pioneer Award for Outstanding District Technology. In addition, Dr. Luft has presented at numerous conferences and is both a Google Certified Administrator and an INTEL Master Trainer. Attributes that were used to describe Dr. Luft’s strengths include how well he connects and builds positive relationships with staff, parents and students, solves problems and innovates, follows-up, champions and completes initiatives, listens and supports accountability, asks about what is needed and coaches to improve and grow. From an administrator: “When he is passionate about something, he makes a point to move it forward.” From an elementary principal, “He is always available. Exceptional as technology director and much more. Jeremy will strive to understand the issues, and bring people together to solve them.” From a Superintendent of Schools, “He has the respect of the entire staff.” He “connects easily with everyone.” With the dual strengths in technology and curriculum, Dr. Luft completes a circle for Putnam Valley in building on our foundation of technology advancement as well as our quest for academic excellence and student success.
We look forward to Dr. Luft joining the Putnam Valley School District community officially on July 1. Dr. Luft will be joining me for our upcoming “Superintendent’s Listening Hour” on May 2, (6PM-PVHS Library) where we will focus our conversation on ELA. Please join us.
Sincerely,
Dr. Frances Wills
Superintendent of Schools