After many years of dedicated service, veteran administrator Kirsten DeMento is retiring at the end of this school year. Ms. DeMento has made a lasting impact on our students, staff, and families through exemplary leadership, commitment, and care during her 24-year tenure with the district. We are deeply grateful for her contributions, and we wish her all the best in retirement.
To provide continuity and prepare for a successful transition following Ms. DeMento’s retirement, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Donald Stevens has announced the following shifts in administration, approved by the Board of Education in May, that will take effect on July 1.
Ryan Groat to become Director of Operations
Watervliet Elementary School Principal Ryan Groat will transition from his current role to director of operations for the school district. In this new position, he will oversee key operating functions that help ensure our facilities continue to provide a comprehensive and meaningful educational experience for all students. His leadership, institutional knowledge, and dedication make him the right choice for this important role.
Meg Maset elevated to Elementary School Principal
Assistant Principal Meg Maset will move into the role of elementary school principal. Having served as second in command at Watervliet Elementary School throughout the past two years, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to student achievement, staff development, and fostering a positive school culture. We are confident that Mrs. Maset’s leadership will continue to strengthen our elementary program and support student success.
Rebecca Sweeney appointed Director of Accountability and Technology
Lastly, longtime Spanish teacher Rebecca Sweeney will assume the role of director of accountability and technology. To achieve her school administrator certification, Mrs. Sweeney completed an internship working closely with Ms. DeMento, who served as her mentor. As a valued member of Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School’s faculty, Mrs. Sweeney has consistently demonstrated innovation, instructional expertise, and enthusiasm for employing technology to enhance learning. In this leadership role, she will oversee accountability initiatives and technology integration across the school district.
These transitions reflect our commitment to developing leadership from within and ensuring continuity as we recognize the service of these educators who have helped shape our school community. We congratulate Mr. Groat, Mrs. Maset, and Mrs. Sweeney on their new roles, and thank Ms. DeMento for her many years of dedicated service.
We look forward to the opportunities these leadership changes will create for our students, staff, and families.