ALBANY, NY (03/21/2024) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY (03/08/2024) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY – Kyle Brown, assistant principal, athletic director, and special education director for the Town of Webb Union Free School District, has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 Leadership and Support Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). The SAANYS Leadership and Support Award was established to recognize the outstanding leadership efforts of those members whose responsibilities require leadership through support services to educators and students across and between school buildings and/or districts.
Brown's leadership for the Town of Webb Union Free School District (UFSD) includes his work as assistant principal, special education director, and athletic director for grades K-12. He began his career with the New York education system as a special education teacher for the Central Square School District in 2006. He then served as a special education teacher for the Oswego City School District for 15 years. Brown joined the Town of Webb UFSD in 2021 and took on the additional position of special education director for K-12 in 2023.
Of his work as a leader for the Town of Webb UFSD, Brown says that "As a school administrator, implementing Steven Covey's principle of 'Think Win-Win' is paramount for fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment. This principle emphasizes seeking mutually beneficial solutions and outcomes in all interactions, ensuring that everyone involved feels valued and respected."
Brown also cites ""Put First Things First," from Steven Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," as holding particular relevance for him as a school leader. He adds that it "provides a framework for school administrators to navigate their multifaceted roles with clarity and purpose. By prioritizing tasks based on their alignment with the school's mission and values, delegating responsibilities effectively, and maintaining a focus on long-term goals, administrators can lead their schools towards greater success and fulfillment."
A member of the South Colonie Athletic Hall of Fame (class of 2023), Brown's leadership skills have been evident in his years as a player and a coach. He was drafted by the New York Mets and played for their organization for two years. Transitioning to coaching, Brown led the Oswego State baseball team to the D3 College Baseball World Series twice.
John Swick, Town of Webb UFSD principal, says that "Kyle has done an outstanding job as a new assistant principal in a small, rural, PK-12 district." As the athletic director, Brown "has helped implement the new branding of our district as we changed our mascot this year." Speaking to Brown's leadership qualities, Swick adds that Brown "has taken on the role of special education director in addition to assistant principal and athletic director."
Brown received his bachelor of arts from LeMoyne College, his master of science from SUNY Oswego, and a certificate of advanced studies from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.
Brown and fellow 2024 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration, taking place on May 3 at the Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs, New York.
SAANYS represents nearly 22,000 school administrators, supervisors, and retirees. 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).
###