Schools Open the Year with New Leadership, Expanded Programs, Focus on Student Success

By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST
OTSEGO COUNTY

As students across Otsego County prepare to return to classrooms this September, districts are entering the 2026–27 school year with new leadership, expanded communication tools, strengthened community partnerships, and a renewed commitment to creating welcoming, engaging environments for all learners. Cooperstown Central School and Oneonta High School, in particular, are rolling out initiatives aimed at improving student involvement, academic support, and connections between schools and families.

Interim Superintendent Ann Meccariello said Cooperstown Central School is entering the year with “a great deal of positive energy,” driven by new staff additions and a continued focus on strengthening communication with families. The district is expanding its use of ParentSquare, now the primary platform for announcements, reminders and school‑wide updates. Families are encouraged to ensure they are connected to the system so they receive timely information from the district and their child’s building.

Cooperstown is also welcoming several new members to its leadership team, each bringing experience and expertise to support students and staff. New leaders include Bob Avery, assistant superintendent for business and operations; Brian Donegan, coordinator of communications; Tom Olsen, director of special education; and Nicole Conway, athletic director and assistant principal. Additional staff have joined throughout the summer, strengthening departments across the district.

The district’s superintendent search remains underway, with hopes of selecting a new leader sometime in the fall. Meccariello said the Board of Education is committed to finding someone who will “build upon the strengths of Cooperstown Central School while helping to guide the district into the future.”

Cooperstown’s Athletics Department is also celebrating the return of cheerleading, offering students a renewed opportunity to participate in a program rooted in teamwork and school spirit. Families are reminded that free breakfast and lunch remain available to all students, and questions about the meal program can be directed to Food Service Director Melissa Rathbun at (607) 547‑2820.

The district continues to expand partnerships with local businesses and organizations, giving students more opportunities for off‑campus fieldwork and in‑school visits from community members. These experiences help students connect classroom learning to real‑world careers and civic engagement.

New elementary school families will be welcomed at the Elementary Mix and Mingle on Monday, August 31 at 5 p.m., an event designed to help families meet staff, explore the building and begin forming connections within the school community.

With buses returning to the roads on September 8, Cooperstown is asking all community members to help keep students safe by slowing down near school zones and stopping when bus lights are flashing.

“Student safety is a shared responsibility,” Meccariello said.

At Oneonta High School, Principal Kevin Stevens said the year ahead is focused on strengthening student voice, expanding opportunities for involvement and supporting academic success through improved attendance.

One of the most notable additions this year is the creation of a Student Advisory Board, with representatives from every grade. The board will give students direct access to school administration, allowing them to help shape school culture, climate and activities.

Stevens emphasized that OHS offers “something for every student,” with a wide range of clubs and extracurricular opportunities. The school’s shared lunch period allows many clubs to meet during the day, reducing conflicts with athletics and after‑school commitments. Community members can explore the full list of clubs on the district website.

Several new educators and leaders are joining the OHS community this year, including Vice Principal Jessica Cook, French teacher Destiny Banach, Librarian Somer Coyle and Special Education teacher Adam Brechner. Stevens said their “talents and perspectives will strengthen our school community and support student success.”

Improving student attendance remains a top priority. OHS is focused on creating an engaging environment where students want to be every day, while also providing individualized support for those facing attendance challenges.

The school is also developing tiered expectations for the use of artificial intelligence in student work. As AI becomes more common in education, OHS aims to teach students how to use it responsibly, ethically and transparently while maintaining academic integrity.

OHS will continue emphasizing its “ONE” expectations: Be Curious. Be Engaged. Be Connected. Be Trustworthy. These principles guide school culture and help prepare students for success beyond graduation.

Across both districts, the message is clear: The 2026–27 school year is filled with optimism, new opportunities, and a shared commitment to student growth. From expanded communication tools and new leadership to student‑centered initiatives and strengthened community partnerships, Cooperstown and Oneonta are ready to welcome students back with purpose and enthusiasm.