Croton-Harmon’s Board of Education voted to appoint Thomas Cunningham as the district’s new director of physical education, health, athletics and wellness during its July 21 meeting.
Mr. Cunningham joins Croton-Harmon from the Haldane Central School District, where he served as director of health, physical education and athletics, as well as dean of students, since 2010. His previous experience also includes coordinating fall and winter sports at Somers Middle School and High School, as well as coaching junior varsity boys’ lacrosse, modified wrestling, junior varsity football and women’s crew at Ithaca College.“Croton has a great reputation for preparing students to achieve at a high level in the classroom, as well as in extracurricular activities,” said Mr. Cunningham. “I look forward to joining in the journey to educate your child to have a positive experience here in Croton.”
Mr. Cunningham was selected to be brought before the Board for approval after a lengthy vetting process. In addition to an initial interview, the candidates for the athletic director position were interviewed by two committees – one made of up of Croton-Harmon administrators, and a second that included a number of students, teachers, coaches, Booster Club representatives and other outside organizations. The Board of Education reviewed all community input, interviewed candidates and ultimately appointed Mr. Cunningham.
In addition to his administrative experience, Mr. Cunningham has taught physical education at Somers Middle School and elementary physical education at Greenwich Catholic School. He holds a B.S. in physical education from Ithaca College, an M.S. in recreation from SUNY Cortland, and a professional diploma in school administration and supervision from Mercy College.
“We need to prepare our students to be ready for the challenges in school, as well as in life,” Mr. Cunningham said. “This can be accomplished with a team effort from the teachers, administrators, staff and parents playing an active role in the educational process.”
Mr. Cunningham will officially begin his new position in Croton-Harmon in August.
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