AM

Dear Cooperstown Elementary School Community, 

I hope that this letter finds you enjoying the relaxing days of August when the summer days start to wind down, but the clock seems to speed up. It is an honor to introduce myself as the new principal of Cooperstown Elementary School and to join this extraordinary school community. I am thrilled to be given this opportunity to serve this district and elated that this is how I get to spend my days. I can assure you that I share in this community’s commitment to caring for your children.

I arrived in Cooperstown with varied experiences. I have served as an art teacher, special education teacher, and Dean of Students. My first role here at Cooperstown was serving as the district assistant principal. In addition to my different roles in education, I am first and foremost a mother. In September, my youngest son, Eli, begins third grade here at Cooperstown. My eldest daughter, Sophia, will begin her college career while my son, Rowan, is spending a year in Taiwan as a Rotary exchange student before returning home to graduate with his class. I will be seeking advice from all of those Cooperstown parents who have navigated this difficult time when their children embark on future endeavors, leaving parents at home to do their own dishes and watch teen movies alone. I’ll warn you, I may need tissues. 

The 2023-24 school year will mark my 18th year in education. I love working in a school and although I have always felt at home in the classroom, it is in my position as an elementary principal where I have been most fulfilled in my life’s work. The elementary principalship provides me the chance to work closely with teachers, while also remaining connected to our students as we watch them learn and grow in the classroom. I firmly believe that every child can excel and that your insights and feedback as parents and caregivers are invaluable as we work together to shape the future of CES.

My vision for Cooperstown is centered on collaboration, innovation, and a student-centered approach. We will be meeting with parents, students, and as a staff throughout the year to identify specific goals in the areas of student achievement, school climate, and parent communication. Our first Cooperstown Coffee and conversation opportunity will take place on August 31, from 5-6 p.m. at Cooperstown Elementary School. We will serve light refreshments. Please stop in and introduce yourself and join the conversation. 

To our students, I miss you all! I hope that you’ve had a summer filled with curiosity. That you’ve been reading, playing, swimming, getting dirty and just being a kid! I cannot wait to hear your voices filling the hallways again. The school is lonely without you. 

In closing, please know that my door is always open to you. I heartily welcome your conversation and positive input throughout this year. I am excited to embark on this educational journey with all of you, and I am confident that together, we will create an inspiring and enriching environment for our students to flourish.

Thank you for entrusting your children’s education to us. Let us work hand in hand to make a positive difference in their lives.

Enjoy the remaining days of summer!

Warm regards, 

Amy Malcuria
Building Principal 
Cooperstown Elementary School
amalcuria@cooperstowncs.org