Cairo-Durham announces upcoming leadership changes

CAIRO―The Cairo-Durham Central School District has announced upcoming leadership changes.

Current Middle/High School Principal Catherine Dodig will be assuming the position of assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. Current Middle/High School Assistant Principal Austin Crittenden will take over the role of Middle/High School principal. These appointments will be effective starting July 1.

The Cairo-Durham Board of Education officially appointed Dodig and Crittenden at the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, April 21.

In an email to faculty and staff, incoming Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dotan Schips wrote that his goal with the succession plan is to “ensure continuity, stability, and as little disruption as possible for our students and staff. It allows us to invest in the talented and dedicated people who are already serving our community while ensuring continuity of the work we've done together over the last several years.”

“I am confident that Catherine and Austin will continue to provide positive leadership for our school community. I'm truly excited about the amazing opportunities we will create together for our students,” added Schips.

The Cairo-Durham Central School District will announce the incoming Middle/High School Assistant Principal in the upcoming weeks.

“I am honored to continue working alongside the dedicated staff here at Cairo-Durham to support student success. Meaningful work is happening every day both inside and outside our classrooms. As I transition into my new role for the upcoming school year, my goal is to partner with our teachers and provide the support they need to sustain and build upon the incredible work they are already doing,” said Dodig.

Crittenden added, “Since joining C-D, I have been incredibly grateful for the relationships I’ve built with our students, staff, and families, and I’m excited to continue serving this community as Principal. I hope to continue the positive growth of a school culture that is grounded in student belonging, high achievement, and multiple pathways for success. I aim for every student to feel welcome, supported, safe, and valued. I am also excited to strengthen our Mustangs RIDE values―Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Empathy—as we continue working together to support the whole-child success of every student.”