Dear Weedsport Educational Community,
It is with mixed emotions that I address you today, bidding farewell to this notable educational community for which I have served as Superintendent of Schools for the last 18 years and that which I have been a part of since the fall of 1989 when I began my teaching career as a 1st grade teacher at Weedsport Elementary School.
In the interim from September 1989 through my retirement date of January 1, 2024, I will have had the great fortune to have worked with and for some incredibly memorable colleagues and Board of Education members. They have enriched my life beyond my ability to express appreciation in words or deeds and for such I will always be indebted.
As I embark on a new chapter in my journey, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire educational community—teachers, staff, students, parents, and stakeholders—for your unwavering belief in the power of education. Most importantly, I wish to thank my immediate and extended family, and my wife in particular, which has been the greatest support system throughout my years as the District’s educational leader.
Thank you for the memories, the growth, and the countless moments of pride. Farewell, but not goodbye. Our paths may diverge, but the impact we have made together will endure.
Respectfully,
Shaun A. O’Connor
Superintendent of Schools
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To all,
I hope this message finds you well. As representatives of the Weedsport Central District Board of Education, it is with mixed emotions that we communicate the retirement of Mr. Shaun O’Connor, who has been an invaluable member of our educational community for the past 34 years.
Throughout his tenure, Mr. O’Connor has demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to our district in various roles, including teacher, athletic director, coach, and business official. Notably, he has served as Superintendent for 18 of those years, providing exceptional leadership during both prosperous and challenging times.
Under Mr. O’Connor’s guidance, our district has weathered numerous trials and emerged stronger than ever. His steadfastness, resilience, and innovative thinking have allowed us to navigate uncharted waters, spearhead new and exciting initiatives, and remain true to the rich heritage of the Weedsport community. We are truly grateful for his remarkable contributions.
Throughout his tenure, he has successfully led numerous capital improvement projects, resulting in a campus that is both safe and secure, while also exuding beauty. These initiatives have greatly enhanced the learning environment for our students. We recognize the tremendous impact he has had on the lives of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader Weedsport community.
It is with mixed emotions that we accept Mr. O’Connor’s resignation for the purpose of retirement. While we understand and support his decision to embark on a new chapter in life, we cannot help but acknowledge the void his departure will create within our district. We are, however, confident that the solid foundation he has helped establish will guide us as we continue our pursuit of academic excellence and community engagement.
As we bid farewell to Mr. O’Connor, we invite the faculty, staff, and community members to join us in celebrating his remarkable career and to extend our warmest wishes for a fulfilling retirement. We encourage you to share your memories, stories, and well wishes as a testament to the impact he has made on our lives and the Weedsport Central District.
Please join us in expressing our deepest appreciation and best regards to Mr. O’Connor for his immeasurable contributions and outstanding dedication. We wish him a retirement filled with joy, good health, and countless new adventures.
Respectfully,
Colleen Borza, President
Weedsport Central School Board of Education