I am Jeremy Engelin, and I am running for re-election to the Catskill Board of Education. Currently serving as your board President, I am fully dedicated to advancing the welfare of our students, staff, and community, and I am enthusiastic about extending this crucial mission for another term.
Over the past six years, I have devoted myself to the advancement of our school district. Collaborating closely with fellow trustees, I have tirelessly pursued our collective aim of enhancing the educational journey of each student. Before assuming the role of President this year, I served as Vice President for four years, acquiring invaluable insights into the intricacies of educational leadership.
During my tenure on the board, our district has undergone remarkable transformations. We successfully navigated a capital improvement project, ensuring that our facilities meet contemporary standards and provide a secure, conducive learning environment for all students. In the face of the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we swiftly adapted, implementing innovative instructional methods to minimize disruptions and optimize learning outcomes. Post-pandemic, we recognized the need for additional support to address the impacts of isolation on social and emotional development. This year in response to ongoing demographic shifts, we prioritized establishing a roadmap for the next five years to tailor our educational offerings to the evolving needs of our community.
As a lifelong resident of Catskill and a former Catskill student myself, my roots run deep in this community. Alongside my wife, Jennifer, and our two children, Xavier and Gabriella, who currently attend Catskill High School, I am personally invested in the prosperity of our district. With a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from SUNY Oswego and over 25 years of experience spanning various industries including Financial Services, Technology, and Research, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. As the Senior Vice President of Operations at a leading Research Organization, I am adept at leveraging research and data analytics to drive superior outcomes and I am privileged to utilize my skills and knowledge to advocate for the best interests of our school.
Throughout my tenure on the board, I have been an advocate for fiscal responsibility. I firmly believe in making prudent, measurable financial decisions that align with our district’s objectives and priorities. By prioritizing the needs of our students, staff, and community, we can ensure sustainable growth while minimizing tax burdens on residents. Over the years, we have successfully maintained low tax levies while ensuring access to essential programs, teaching staff, and resources vital for our children’s success.
Looking forward, I am committed to championing a more student-centric approach within our district. By strategically reallocating resources and reevaluating our priorities, we can cultivate an educational environment that places the well-being and success of every student, family, and staff member at the forefront.
Additionally, I am advocating for the transformation of the former Catskill Academy space into Family Support Center following a “community school” approach. These initiatives, funded through grants and collaborations with community organizations, businesses, and government agencies, help provide comprehensive support to students, families and our communities, fostering holistic development to unlock each individual’s full potential.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve our community, and I am eager to continue working tirelessly on behalf of our students, families, staff, and community. With your support, together we can forge a brighter future for Catskill.