Dear Spencer-Van Etten Community,
I am honored and excited to expand my role within the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District as your superintendent of schools. Having served our district as middle school principal, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue working alongside our students, staff, families, and community members in this new capacity.
Spencer-Van Etten is a special place, and I am proud to be able to build upon the strong foundation that already exists. I look forward to continuing the important work of our Blueprint for Excellence Strategic Plan and leading the implementation of our newly approved capital project. I want to sincerely thank our community for its support and trust in approving this project, which will enhance learning spaces and expand opportunities for our students for years to come.
As I transition into the superintendent role, my initial focus will be on listening, learning, and building relationships. I am eager to begin a district-wide listening and learning tour to connect with students, staff, families, and community partners while gaining a deeper understanding of our instructional programs and operational systems. Strengthening communication and transparency across our district will also be a key priority, as meaningful collaboration depends on clear and open dialogue.
I invite you to review my superintendent entry plan, which outlines my priority goals, leadership approach, and transition timeline. This plan reflects my belief that the best decisions are made through collaboration, thoughtful planning, and a shared commitment to student success. At the heart of this work is a focus on why we do what we do — ensuring every student is supported, challenged, and prepared for their best possible future.
As superintendent, I am committed to:
Enhancing the learning opportunities our students experience every day
Ensuring our schools are safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments for all
Strengthening connections between our schools and community to maximize local resources
I look forward to working collaboratively with the greater Spencer-Van Etten community as we continue to grow, innovate, and support every learner. Thank you for the warm welcome and for your continued partnership in this important work.
Sincerely,
Patrick Patterson
Superintendent of Schools
Spencer-Van Etten Central School District