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Wappingers Central School District

25 Corporate Park Drive / P.O. Box 396 / Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 / PH: 845.298.5000

2026 Meet the Candidates: In Their Own Words

2026 Meet the Candidates: In Their Own Words

Candidate statements are in their own words, not altered or edited by Wappingers CSD. 

  • A man with glasses smiles warmly at the camera.For 26 years, until my retirement, I proudly served the WCSD as Principal of Van Wyck. I began as an elementary and middle school teacher, coach, athletic director, and later a high school administrator. I led Van Wyck to recognition as a NYS and National School to Watch and served on the Capital Improvement, Safety, and Health and Wellness Committees. As principal and former president of the Wappingers Administrators Association, I strengthened my skills in negotiation, fiscal oversight, budgeting, and human relations while supporting capital projects and district initiatives. I earned my master’s degree and doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University. As a Board member, I will promote academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, safe schools, and opportunity for every child.

  • A smiling man in a pinstripe suit poses for a portrait.As a longtime Wappingers resident and proud parent in the Wappingers Central School District, I know our community values strong schools, responsible budgets, and opportunity for every child. I am seeking re-election as School Board Trustee to continue delivering results. Graduation rates have risen above 94%, reflecting the dedication of our students and educators. I’ve supported expanded pathways like P-TECH and trade programs starting in 9th grade to prepare students for real-world success. I’ve backed fair strategies to retain teachers and plans to modernize facilities, address growing enrollment, and strengthen special education so more students can learn close to home. I remain committed to listening, leading, and putting our community first. 
    Experience You Trust. Results You See.
    Vote May 19th

  • Ellen MeadIn 1986 my husband and I moved to Dutchess County with our two children. Having a degree in Psychology, Early Education and Special Education made finding the best school district a priority. WCSD was the obvious choice. My three children are graduates of WCSD and my grandson a current student.

    I’m proud to say that I was an employee of the district for a little over 26 years. My career began as a long-term Teaching Assistant, a permanent position at Gayhead Elementary then at John Jay HS ending with 20+ years teaching at WJHS.

    Even though I am retired the WCSD and Education are important to me. It would be an honor to serve on the Board of Education.