Bill Vacca

My philosophy of educational leadership can be defined in three words: passion, persistence and positivity.  My goal as an administrator at Mohonasen CSD is to create a stimulating environment where children can flourish academically, socially, and learn the true meaning of the word “opportunity”.  I believe my personal connection to our students, staff and the general Mohonasen community is an asset that offers them an additional layer of stability and respect in the ever-changing environment we are living in. 

School leaders motivate their buildings by the level of passion they exude on a daily basis. My passion and dedication to our district continues to grow every day and it’s my mission to share that passion with the rest of our team. No matter how difficult the challenges have been, I’ve taken them on with eagerness and perseverance. Every year, I either achieve my goals or recognize where I have fallen short and correct those shortfalls. Being transparent and addressing my areas of growth model the same expectations I have for our staff and students. This has given teachers the confidence to take risks that take their teaching to the next level, and allow students to “think big” when it comes to setting and reaching goals.

For our district to thrive and achieve its goals, it needs administrators who are skilled communicators.  I have demonstrated that I am an effective communicator both in person and by utilizing my skills in video production. I have utilized my YouTube channel and Google for Edu platform to teach and help coach our K-12 staff in instructional technology. Instead of simply lecturing at a faculty meeting or professional development session, I use video and interactive Meet sessions to demonstrate the instructional technology as well as shine a spotlight on teachers who are successful using that technology in the classroom.   Together, we celebrate their successes and learn from their mistakes.  I continually stress that failure isn’t something to fear, it’s just another facet of learning.  I highlight my own mistakes and emphasize that it’s okay to fail, as long as we use that experience of failure to build something better. I encourage and create opportunities for staff, students and community members to share their own experiences, opinions and questions.  Students should be allowed to work on projects and problem solving in groups.  Collaboration is critical for student learning.

Maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude is crucial for the culture of a school district. If leaders don’t truly model and practice what they preach, the Mohonasen community will see right through their message. Throughout my four years, I have become a Google for Education Certified Coach, Trainer & Innovator with the mission of building capacity with our staff. My dedication to our district fuels my contagious excitement to achieve our goals. I truly believe in each member in our Mohonasen community and their ability to succeed. By pulling together everyone’s strengths and showcasing their talents, we will ensure a bright future for Mohonasen.

Education:

AGC School District Leader (K-12) expected completion 12/2021

University at Albany, State University of New York

AGC School Building Leader (K-12) + NYS SBL May 2016

University at Albany, State University of New York

MS Childhood Education (1st-6th), MS Literacy (Birth-6th) August 2010

Sage Graduate School

B.S. English, June 2007 

Union College

Experience:

Director of Instructional Technology & Assistant Principal @ Mohonasen CSD

 July 2017 - Current

Google for Education Certified Trainer, Innovator and Coach

First Grade Teacher @Glendaal Elementary School in Scotia-Glenville CSD

 September 2010 - June 2017

Accolades:

PC World Mag. Remote Learning Article 1 & Article 2

New Yorker Strategist - Best Tools for Working Remotely

EdTech Magazine - Pros and Cons of Virtual Snow Days

www.youtube.com/mrvacca