Today was “Opening Day” for employees of the Duanesburg Central School District. As part of their first Superintendent’s Conference Day of the 2024-2025 school year, all DCS employees gathered in the high school cafeteria this morning for breakfast prepared by DCS’ Food Services Director Dan Silva and his Food Services team. Staff then made their way to Joe Bena Hall to hear opening remarks from new Superintendent Kimberly Ross, and DCS Board of Education president Dr. Melissa Them Peterson.
“This school year, we are committed to nurturing key elements such as joy, transparent communication, trust, and a positive culture,” Ms. Ross said.
“Joy is the cornerstone of our work. Transparent communication is essential for success. Trust is the foundation of our relationships. Fostering a positive culture is what makes Duanesburg Central School District a special place to work. Our culture is shaped by our values, actions, and interactions,” she added.
Ms. Ross welcomed 15 new district staff members and introduced them one-by-one. New staff members include (in alphabetical order):
Jacob Ballmes (Occupational Therapist), Alicia Charletta (Special Education Clerical Aide), Haley Duffy (Teacher Aide), Grady Gawrys (DES Physical Education Teacher), Susan Gutmaker (Kindergarten Teacher), Audrey Helme (Deputy Treasurer/HR/Payroll Clerk), Renee Keyser (Teaching Assistant), Mikayla Labombard-Dufresne (Bus Monitor), Shannon Lawrence (Kitchen Worker/Bus Monitor), Colleen Nieminski (Business), Angelica Pierluissi (Cleaner), Kimberly Ross (Superintendent), Rachael Lebo (First Grade Teacher), Courtney Rafferty (Special Education Teacher), and Vivian Rambo (Spanish).
Ross offered words of encouragement to all returning and new staff members to help kick off the new school year.
“I encourage each of you to bring your best self to work every day. Remember, we are not just a school district; we are a community, a family. And together, there is nothing we cannot achieve,” she said. “Let’s step into this new academic year with enthusiasm and a renewed sense of purpose and hope. Together, we can make this year one of the best yet for Duanesburg Central School District.”
BOE president Dr. Melissa Them Peterson also addressed the crowd to thank staff for their dedication to the district and to Duanesburg students. “As educators, you play a crucial role in shaping the future, and your efforts do not go unnoticed. The time, energy, and creativity you put into each day makes all the difference to our students,” she said.
“Please remember that you are more than teachers. You are mentors, motivators, and role models,” she added. “Your classrooms are not just spaces for learning facts and figures, but safe havens where your students feel valued, respected, and inspired to reach their full potential. Few professions are as important as teaching. Thank you for choosing it as yours.”
Assistant Superintendent of Management Services Jeffrey Rivenburg joined Them Peterson on stage to acknowledge milestone anniversaries among the staff. Certificates of appreciation were handed to staff members celebrating 5 years, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, and 25 years of service to the district. See full list below.
Lunch was prepared and served by Superintendent Ross and members of the Board of Education, including Dr. Them Peterson, Francis Spor (Vice President), and BOE members Toni Amorosi, and Sarah Gwiazdowski.
Staff will have one more day to connect with colleagues and prepare their classrooms, before welcoming students in grades PK-12 on Thursday, September 5 for the very first day of classes.
Milestone Service Recognitions
