Garry StoneAfter 34 years in education, Brockport Superintendent Garry Stone will retire on June 30.
Stone came to Brockport from the Holland Central School District in western New York, looking forward to the challenge of leading a larger school district and creating new initiatives to help improve student achievement. He said he found being a part of the Brockport community to be rewarding.
“I can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be and am glad I had the opportunity to be a part of this community. I’ve enjoyed working with Brockport’s diverse staff and am impressed by the many dedicated professionals.”
Stone also commented on the positive impact that he sees the Board of Education making in the schools.
“This Board of Education is very dedicated to the success of the district and its students,” said Stone. “I have enjoyed working with such an active, supportive and focused Board of Education. I appreciate their willingness to allow me to be part of this team.”
During his tenure at Brockport, Stone led the district through very trying economic times, focusing on building professional learning communities and 21st century learners. He worked to settle all contracts, and bring curriculum on line with Atlas software.
Additionally, Stone focused on the importance of communication and the need to be good communicators when dealing with difficult situations. “Crucial Conversations” was a book that he had the administrative staff read and discuss in an effort to improve communication at all levels. To continue the lines of open communication with parents and staff, Stone oversaw the purchase and implementation of the automated notification system. He was also instrumental in implementing surveys at the ballot box and online to obtain feedback from our students and their families regarding the work of the Brockport schools.
Stone says one of his favorite parts of his role as superintendent was visiting the classrooms to talk with students and hear about what they are learning at each grade level. During Read Across America Week, Stone could be found in classrooms reading the children’s books he’d written. He reassured them that writing doesn’t come out perfect the first time.
During his career in education, Stone served as School Administrators Association of New York State Region 12 secretary and treasurer and as a representative to the New York State Council of School Superintendents House of Delegates. While at Brockport, he spearheaded a committee to start an educational foundation as a way to raise additional funds for the district in a difficult economy and hopes it will come to fruition in the near future.
Stone says he has many things to look forward to in retirement. In addition to trying to get his books published, he plans to return to his interests of gardening, bird watching, and flower and tree identification. He looks forward to traveling and spending time with his wife Abby, of 34 years, and sons Benjamin, Christopher and James.
“While my retirement is bittersweet, it is a great finish to a fulfilling career,” said Stone. “I will miss the people of Brockport.”
