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Lewis named ‘go-to person’

By Billie Dunn

CATSKILL — In a closed-door meeting on Aug. 5 the Catskill Central School District board of education resolved to create the position of Assistant Superintendent for Business, and they immediately resolved to fill it.

After less than three years in the district, Kimberly Lewis — the school’s former business administrator — was promoted to the position, and it was a surprise.

“I really didn’t have any warning about this,” said Lewis.

The board voted unanimously on the measure, and celebrated with cupcakes.

According to Lewis she will now be immediate backup to the superintendent, and beyond that she’s not sure how her workload will change. But Catskill School District Superintendent Dr. Kate Farrell says that’s because Lewis has been performing the tasks all along.

“In many respects, Lewis’ job description won’t change, because she already performs the job functions performed under the title — but it will be very clear that when I am out of the district, she is the go-to person,” said Farrell.

Prior to coming to the district Lewis worked for the Albany City School District. She holds a law degree and worked as a practicing attorney. Farrell says that Lewis’ background in business office work and her legal education have been a great asset to the district.

According to Farrell the position existed within the district, but had not been filled. She says that when Lewis came to the district she filled the title of business official, but she holds the proper certification for the administrative position, so the board decided to fill the position and upgrade Lewis’ status.

“It’s a significant step forward in the administrative tier and she’s certainly a worthy candidate,” said Farrell. “The board wanted to act on this, and we wanted her to know how much we appreciate the value that she brings to the district.”

Now she says that the new title will codify Lewis’ level of responsibility, and that she well essentially become the functioning chief.

“On a personal note I’m delighted that the board took this action — she’s a collaborative colleague and I know that she will continue to bring the benefits of her work ethic and knowledge to support our students, staff, and community,” said Farrell.

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