Shanda DuClon has been named superintendent of Pine Valley Central Schools. She is pictured with Jeffrey Chase, school board president.

SOUTH DAYTON — The Pine Valley Central School District has chosen Shanda DuClon as its new superintendent. The Board of Education made the appointment during a meeting held Thursday. DuClon currently serves as assistant superintendent of the Depew Union Free School District.

“We are confident that Mrs. DuClon’s leadership will greatly benefit Pine Valley,” said Jeffrey Chase, president of the board. “Her commitment to a learning environment where all students succeed aligns with our district’s values. In addition to a student-centered approach, she has a genuine care and concern for her staff.”

“I’m excited to get started and to get to know the staff and community,” DuClon said. “I felt the warmth and compassion come through during the entire interview process. I look forward to leading the team here and building on the work that has been done to provide students with opportunities. I also am passionate about further developing strategies to recruit and retain employees.”

Prior to her role as assistant superintendent, DuClon served as middle school principal at Springville-Griffith Institute Central School District for seven years. She was also the elementary principal and director of special education at Westfield Academy and Central School District from 2012 to 2016.

Throughout her career, DuClon has been an active member of various district-level teams overseeing capital projects, budget development and strategic planning. During the pandemic, she was a member of the Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES Regional Task Force for Re-Opening.

DuClon is an active member of various professional organizations, including the New York State Council of School Superintendents, the New York State Association of School Personnel Administrators, and the New York State Association of Women in Administration.

Dr. David O’Rourke, the District Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer of Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, served as the district’s search consultant. “Mrs. DuClon emerged as the top choice among a field of outstanding candidates,” O’Rourke said. “She brings extensive administrative experience at both building and district office roles. She also has the right fit of relational skills, instructional expertise, intellect and dedication to this position.”

DuClon began her career as a K-12 music teacher in the Cuba-Rushford Central School District in Allegany County. In addition to her music education degree from SUNY Fredonia, she holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from Niagara University and a master’s degree in curriculum, instruction, and assessment from Walden University. She also holds New York State School District Leader and School Building Leader certifications.

“I am from a rural background, and the size and small-town feel are a fit for me,” DuClon said. “During my 21 years in education, I’ve always worked in close-knit districts with the superintendent housed in a school building where they can be a part of the learning community. I look forward to being able to do that every day.”

“Mrs. DuClon has devoted most of her career to small rural school settings,” Chase said. “We appreciate how she has sought growth in her career, and her many experiences have prepared her for the superintendency. We can’t wait to see the impact she will have when it comes to building relationships with our students, families and staff.”

DuClon’s first day as Pine Valley’s superintendent will be Jan. 1.