Dear Spencer-Van Etten Community:

I’m sure this finds you in the “last month of school” mode with busy, end-of-year activities and celebrations planned. I wish the Class of 2022 graduates a world of success as they transition into the next chapters of their lives. I would like to take this opportunity to share a little about myself as I transition into the Superintendent of Schools position in the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District effective August 1, 2022. Let me start by saying that I am eager to join you, and I look forward to learning more about our students, families, employees, and community. I grew up in Groton, and I was most familiar with S-VE from athletic events for myself, as well as my children. In fact, until my day of interviews, the most vivid memory I held of the district was that of a bee sting I sustained while cheering at a football game back around 1986! Needless to say, my day of campus tours and interviews with the various stakeholders to become Superintendent changed that outlook!

Having served as Superintendent of Schools in the General Brown Central School District in the North Country since January 2018, I am familiar with the challenges faced by small, rural school districts, not only as we emerge from the effects of the pandemic, but in daily operations and planning. I have also served as High School Principal and taught Social Studies and Reading at both urban and rural schools. I try to live my professional and personal lives by leading by example for children, and I believe if we set high expectations, we all will continue to learn and grow in an effort to meet those expectations. In addition, I believe that every child deserves every opportunity to find academic, as well as social and emotional successes. Finally, I commit to open and honest communication with you. I look forward to working alongside you to make a difference in the lives of children.

Personally, my husband, Rick, and I have two adult children. Rick is currently a truck driver, but he previously worked in Candor, so he has many acquaintances in the Candor, Spencer, and Van Etten areas, and we have spent much time in the region over the years. My daughter’s family lives in the area, and I look forward to living closer to them! My son is a Graduate Assistant Football Coach at a college in South Dakota. Some of our favorite downtime activities include riding on our motorcycle, kayaking, remote camping, and watching college football.

Initially, my focus will be on getting to know you, the district, and the greater S-VE community. I look forward to being present in the district prior to my official start date, so that I can hit the ground running in August as we prepare for the start of school in the fall. I am honored to serve the children, families, and employees of the Spencer-Van Etten School District, and rather than a sting from the bee, I now look forward to the sweet taste of honey as I acclimate into the community! Please feel free to introduce yourselves as we cross paths in the schools or within the greater S-VE community.

Respectfully,

Barbara J. Case

Elementary School

New Superintendent of Schools