Superintendent Dr. Kurtis Kotes addressing faculty and staff at Opening Day.
The East Greenbush Central School District is buzzing with excitement as teachers and staff returned to work on Wednesday for their annual Opening Day. While students don’t arrive until next week, staff used this time to attend meetings, complete mandatory training, and participate in professional development workshops.
The day started in the Columbia High School auditorium with a surprise “flash mob” dance performance by two dozen staff members and inflatable beach balls flying through the air. It was a fun and energetic way to welcome everyone back.
Superintendent Dr. Kurtis Kotes, who began his new role on July 1, officially welcomed staff for the 2025-26 school year. He re-introduced himself, after meeting many employees during his school tours in the spring.
Superintendent Dr. Kurtis Kotes
Dr. Kotes provided important updates for staff on topics such as the Distraction-Free Schools policy, the “Building a Bright Future” capital project, and the strategic plan. He thanked key staff for their work over the summer and he shared a positive message to start the new school year.
Board of Education Vice President Catherine Van Orden also addressed the staff, thanking them for their dedication to the students and families in the district.
“The heart and soul of this district are the people, and as a Board, we are honored to support you,” she said.
Following Dr. Kotes’s welcome address, employees received safety training and an update on behavioral interventions for students.
The first day also included union meetings, department and grade level team meetings, and the start of professional development sessions.
Professional Development Offerings
- Benchmark Education Overview
- Chemical Hygiene Training
- CPR/AED First Aid
- Education Law 2-d
- Effective De-Escalation Techniques
- Express EL – Benchmark Education’s ENL Supplemental Program
- EGCSD Asynchronous Professional Development Library (50+ Workshops)
- ParentSquare
- Transportation Department Safety Training
“During opening days we came together for grade level team meetings, where we shared important news and updates, and for purposeful professional development,” said Lisa Mahar, the district’s new Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to get up to speed on adopted programs and choose your own path for professional growth through our asynchronous professional development library.”
Teachers will also have time to set up their classrooms and prepare to welcome their new students.
The first day of school for K-12 students is scheduled for Wednesday, September 3. Pre-K programs start between September 3-5, depending on the program.
For more information on the new school year, visit www.egcsd.org.