Hendrick Hudson BOE Selects Interim Superintendent
The Hendrick Hudson Board of Education announced its selection of Brian D. Monahan, Ph.D, as interim Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1. He will replace Schools Superintendent Dr. Daniel T. McCann who announced in March his intention to retire at the close of the 2011-12 school year.
Monahan, currently serving as coordinator of graduate programs in educational leadership and technology at Pace University, brings nearly 40 years of experience as an educator to the Hendrick Hudson School District.
Beginning his public education career in Yonkers Public Schools as a computer science and English teacher, Monahan has a wide breadth of experience both in and out of the classroom. He has held positions as a curriculum specialist, director of information technology and deputy superintendent. He retired from the North Rockland Central School District (Haverstraw-Stony Point CSD) in August of 2009 as superintendent of schools, where he served since 1995.
Monahan received his B.A. in English from SUNY Albany, holds three Master’s Degrees (English education-Iona College, applied linguistics- Columbia University and computer science- Pace University). Additionally, he received his Ph.D in curriculum and teaching with a specialization in language and literacy from Fordham University.
In addition to his professional resume, Monahan has been active in his community, serving as a trustee on the Dobbs Ferry Village Board and three terms as mayor. He has also served on the Dobbs Ferry Union Free School District Board of Education.
Monahan resides in Dobbs Ferry with his wife Lisa. Together they have one daughter, Lisa.
“The Board of Education interviewed a number of candidates, and while all had very impressive backgrounds, Dr. Monahan is the best fit for our schools at this juncture,” said Board of Education President Marion Walsh. “We were impressed with his varied experience, educational philosophy and captivated by his sense of optimism, enthusiasm and ability to connect with individuals on a number of levels. We are delighted to welcome him to our community and look forward to working with him in the coming year,” concluded Walsh.
“I am honored that the Hendrick Hudson Board has selected me for this important role at such a critical time. The District has an outstanding record of accomplishment in academics and co-curricular areas,” said Monahan.
He continued, “My hope is to continue to build on the excellent work that has been done and provide careful and thoughtful leadership during a period of transition. I have enjoyed my recent three years as a professor but look forward to getting back into public school classrooms and seeing the positive things that happen when teachers, staff and members of the community work together to help students excel.”
The Board of Education will appoint Monahan at a June meeting, once his contract is finalized.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.