Education, Lead Stories, News

School district finds new superintendent in Chappaqua

The Rye City School District Board of Education has found its man, naming Dr. Eric Byrne as its next superintendent.

Byrne, who has been serving as the assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction at the Chappaqua Central School District for six years, will formally be appointed to the position at the next board meeting on Feb. 28, and he will officially take over as superintendent on or around July 1.

The Rye City Board of Education has announced the selection of Dr. Eric Byrne as its next district superintendent of schools. Photo courtesy Rye City School District
The Rye City Board of Education has announced the selection of Dr. Eric Byrne as its next district superintendent of schools. Photo courtesy Rye City School District

“It’s an honor and privilege to have been selected as the finalist for the position,” Byrne said. “The reputation of the Rye City School [District] is quite incredible, and I look forward to working with their terrific faculty and strong administrative team.”

Byrne began his career in education as a science teacher in the New York City public schools. He received his doctorate and a master’s degree in education from Fordham University; he also received a degree in natural science from Fordham.

“After a rigorous selection process, the choice was clear,” said Board of Education President Katy Keohane Glassberg. “Dr. Eric Byrne’s background and experience as a leader in curriculum development and implementation is extraordinary.”

In October 2016, Byrne was appointed as the acting superintendent of the Chappaqua school district for a brief stint, following the resignation of former Superintendent Lyn McKay, who stepped down while wrestling with the sexual abuse scandal of teacher Christopher Schraufnagel; Byrne served in that capacity until January 2017. He also previously served as principal of Chappaqua’s Roaring Brook Elementary School.

As for the Rye district, Byrne said it would be premature to highlight a blueprint for the future; however, he said he will begin an “extensive entry process” once appointed. He added that, as part of that process, he will meet with stakeholders groups, administrators and teachers to devise a comprehensive plan.

“First, I want to take a look at what’s happening in Rye; see the strengths and opportunities for the district, and then we’ll have a much better sense of a plan,” he said.

Byrne will take over for Dr. Brian Monahan, who has been serving as the district’s interim superintendent since Aug. 1, 2016, following the departure of Dr. Frank Alvarez, who stepped down from the post in July 2016.

Monahan was believed to be seeking the permanent superintendent position, and was considered to be one of the finalists for the job, according to a source.

According to Sarah Derman, a representative for the Rye City School District, Byrne was among 40 other candidates seeking the position.

There will be a reception to welcome Byrne at a Board of Education meeting on March 7.