The Board of Education recognized retiring Superintendent Dr. Kathleen A. Spring by dedicating the Black Box Theater at the Center for Advanced Technology at Mohonasen in her honor.
Board President Lisa Gaglioli cited Spring’s commitment to staff, students and the community in announcing the honor at the board’s June 18 meeting.
“The district couldn’t have accomplished all that it has without your vision and guidance,” said Gaglioti.
Spring was instrumental in the district’s pursuit of a capital project in 2013 that included construction of the Center for Advanced Technology at Mohonasen. Her vision was for students to have access to a variety of modern, high-tech labs and classrooms that offer learning experiences in “real world” work environments. The building opened in September 2016.
Gaglioti referred to the Black Box Theater as the “jewel” of the new center.
“We believe without your vision and leadership, this building wouldn’t have come to fruition. This building is not just a building, but the future for the education of our students,” Gaglioti said.
Spring retires from the district on June 30, having spent 17 of her nearly 40 years in education at Mohonasen.
Spring earned her bachelor of science in elementary education and her master of science in special education, both at the College of Saint Rose. She earned a second master of science degree in educational administration from the College of Saint Rose, and her doctorate in educational administration and policy studies from SUNY Albany.
She began her career as a grades 6-8 English teacher at Our Lady of Angels School in Albany, after which she worked as a special education teacher at Northeast Parent and Child Society in Schenectady. She served as a special education teacher in the Greater Amsterdam School District before stepping into an administrative role in 1990. She served in various administrative capacities in Amsterdam, Stillwater and Niskayuna, among other districts, before coming to Mohonasen in 2001 as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. Spring held that position for four years before being named superintendent, a position she has held for the 13 years.
“As you leave Mohonasen and enter into retirement, we wanted to show our gratitude and let you know you will never be forgotten,” said Gaglioti. “Thank you for all you have done for the board, the school, the staff and especially the students.”