Chazy Names Sanford Coakley Interim Elementary Principal
Chazy Central Rural School District is proud to welcome a very experienced and passionate educator as its interim K-6 Elementary Principal.
Mr. Sanford Coakley will begin his new role with the district on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, motivated and excited to join and support a strong educational culture.
“I still enjoy being in the education environment and working with staff and students,” Coakley said. “It’s a continuous motivation for me. I like being around people, and it keeps me fresh in the education world. I feel like I am giving back and helping the community and school district.”
Chazy Junior High/High School Principal Mrs. Krista Ringer will take over the Elementary Principal position on July 1, 2024. Chazy is currently searching for a Junior High/High School Principal.
Coakley has spent over 28 years in education following a long career in the United States Air Force from 1972 to 1994.
He began teaching Special Education at Champlain Valley Educational Services (BOCES) in January 1995 before shifting to the same role at Peru Central School District the following school year.
From 2007 to 2018, Coakley spent time as Peru’s High School and Middle School Associate Principal and Co-Principal of the Elementary.
He has since served as a substitute principal for both the Special Education and Career & Technical Educational divisions of CVES.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Coakley to our Chazy community,” Chazy Superintendent of Schools Mr. Rob McAuliffe said. “His experience combined with his passion for education and supporting students and staff makes him a perfect fit for our district. We look forward to his leadership and positive outlook.”
Coakley features plenty of connections to the Chazy community beyond the school setting. He served as the Town of Beekmantown Youth Director from 1995 to 2018.
“I have always enjoyed supporting the youth, and my paths have crossed with plenty of children who walked the halls of Chazy, and now at my old age, even some staff members,” Coakley said with a chuckle.
Coakley obtained his Administration Degree as well his Master of Arts (Curriculum and Instruction) and Bachelor of Science (Special Education) from SUNY Plattsburgh. He also owns an Associate of Arts (Liberal Arts and General Studies) from Clinton Community College.
Now, a new chapter of his career begins.
“It does not get better than this because you are getting to work with professionals,” Coakley said. “I am learning from the staff, too, to see what the new incentives in education are. I am very thankful to the Chazy Administration and Board of Education for considering me when this opportunity presented itself. I am looking forward to a strong finish to the school year.”