Poland CSD Principal Receives State Honor

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Gregory Cuthbertson

ALBANY, NY (03/21/2019) (readMedia)-- Gregory Cuthbertson, principal at Poland School in the Poland Central School District, has been selected as the recipient of the 2019 K-12 Building Principal Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). The K-12 Building Principal Award was created to recognize the unique characteristics of a K-12 building and the related demands, expectations, and challenges of a principal in this multi-level environment. It is given annually to a SAANYS member who is a successful K-12 principal, a recognized educational leader, and who demonstrates leadership in establishing the pace, character, and mission of the building and demonstrates creativity and resourcefulness in providing comprehensive programs and services for all levels and grades.

After having served only a few years as the 6-12 principal, Cuthbertson was honored to be approached by the superintendent to become the K-12 building principal for the district. Shortly thereafter, he received the New York State Council on Leadership and Student Activities Administrator of the Year award which recognizes an administrator for outstanding dedication to the field of student leadership development and support of student activities in New York State.

During his tenure as K-12 building principal, Cuthbertson has overseen the planning and implementation of the OLWEUS anti-bullying initiative districtwide, where all students were required to participate in educational class meetings designed to promote and build a positive school climate. As a result of the initiative, bullying incidents decreased in the district by 70 percent. Another initiative Cuthbertson is spearheading is the establishment of a middle school concept within the K-12 building.

Commented colleague and Director of Pupil Personnel/School Safety Brian Coleman, "Greg has developed a phenomenal program at Poland as he was instrumental in the conversion to a K-12 building. He serves on many committees and most recently the SAANYS Region 8 executive committee, and attends all events to enhance his skills and bring a better education to the Poland community."

Cuthbertson received his bachelor of arts, master of arts, and certificate of advanced study from SUNY Cortland.

Cuthbertson will be honored for his accomplishments at an awards ceremony on May 3 at the Century House in Latham, New York.

SAANYS represents nearly 7,200 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).