POTSDAM — The Potsdam Central School Board of Education has selected two finalists in the search for a superintendent candidate.

The finalists are Joseph McDonough, Ed.D. and Jerry Griffin. Dr. McDonough will present to stakeholder groups on Wednesday, Oct. 19, with Mr. Griffin presenting on Thursday, Oct. 20.

Superintendent Joann Chambers recently announced her retirement, creating the upcoming vacancy at the end of the year.

BOCES Superintendent Thomas Burns was called upon by the school district’s Board of Education to act as a consultant in the selection of a superintendent of schools, and in the recruitment, screening and evaluation of candidates.

This service is provided to component school districts by the Office of the District Superintendent at the direction of the Commissioner of Education.

“The Potsdam Board of Education is pleased to present these strong candidates as finalists for the position of superintendent. We look forward to receiving feedback from the various constituent groups that will be involved in the finalist sessions on October 19th and 20th,” said Board President Joshua Fiske. “We are confident that this process will yield a new leader that is well suited to the needs of the District, who will support our students and staff in their continued pursuit of educational excellence, and who will develop strong relationships through transparent leadership.”

Dr. McDonough has 20 years’ experience as an educator with the past 15 years spent in leadership roles. He currently serves as the Middle School Principal for the Canton Central School District. He has also served as the Elementary Principal and Dean of Students for Canton Central School District along with the Dean of Students for Potsdam Central School District. Mr. McDonough holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of New England, a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership and Masters of Education from St. Lawrence University, and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Michael’s College.

Mr. Griffin has over 27 years of experience as an educator with the past 22 years spent in administrative roles within New York State and North Carolina. He currently serves as the Superintendent of Schools for Malone Central School District. He has also served as the Assistant Superintendent and Principal for Malone Central School District. Mr.

Griffin holds an EDS from Appalachian State University, a Master’s in School Administration from Gardner-Webb University, and a Bachelor in Secondary Education, Social Studies and Sociology from SUNY Potsdam.