BALDWINSVILLE SCHOOLS – The Baldwinsville Central School District Board of Education has approved Dr. Joseph DeBarbieri to serve as the next superintendent of schools.
This appointment follows the BOE’s unanimous vote in January to accept the resignation of Superintendent Jason Thomson, who was arrested last October after crowd surfing over students during the high’s schools homecoming football game and driving while under the influence of alcohol.
Thomson was arrested by Baldwinsville police after students told school staff that they smelled alcohol on him at the game. He was subsequently placed on paid administrative leave from the district.
Thomson pleaded guilty in December to driving while ability impaired in Baldwinsville Village Court.
DeBarbieri, who has been deputy superintendent for Baldwinsville since 2016, has also served as acting superintendent of schools. He will take on the role of permanent superintendent from July 1, 2023, when the position becomes available.
“The board and I have had many long nights and careful discussions, and we believe that Dr. DeBarbieri will provide the consistency and stability the district needs,” said Acting Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Davis.
Davis will continue as acting superintendent until the end of the school year to assist with the transition.
The board made its decision based on community feedback in writing and at public board meetings, as well as a recent staff ThoughtExchange.
“The board is committed to working as a team with Dr. DeBarbieri to move the district forward for the students,” said Board President Jennifer Patruno.
DeBarbieri began his career in Baldwinsville in 2002 as a math teacher at Charles W. Baker High School. He has worked as a building administrator at Baker High School and Van Buren Elementary School and also served as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction before taking on his current role as deputy superintendent.
DeBarbieri has a doctor of education from Syracuse University, a certificate of advanced studies from Syracuse University, a master of science from Le Moyne College, and a bachelor of arts from Syracuse University.