Cooperstown Central School District Announces Preferred Candidate for Superintendent

COOPERSTOWN – Following a comprehensive search process, the Cooperstown Central School District Board of Education has identified Mr. Eric Whipple as its preferred candidate for Superintendent. The Board will consider his appointment at its meeting Wednesday, Sept. 16. 

Mr. Whipple currently serves as Superintendent of Charlotte Valley Central School District. Following his appointment, he is expected to begin in Cooperstown this fall or early winter, with a start date to be determined. 

“I am humbled and honored to be selected as the preferred candidate for Superintendent of the Cooperstown Central School District,” Mr. Whipple said. “I am grateful to the Board of Education for the confidence they have placed in me and excited for the opportunity to become part of the Cooperstown school community.

“As we enter an important time in education, with the New York State Education Department working through significant changes to teaching, learning and preparing students for graduation and beyond, I look forward to working with our faculty, staff, students, families, Board of Education and community to navigate these changes together and develop programs and opportunities that prepare our students for whatever paths they choose to pursue.” 

Mr. Whipple was selected following a thorough search process that began this past summer. 

His experience includes: 

• Serving as Superintendent of Charlotte Valley since 2022, where he has overseen a $13.3 million Capital Project, led a strategic planning process and implemented initiatives that improved student proficiency. 
• Serving as a K-12 Principal at Jefferson Central School District and an Elementary Principal at Cobleskill-Richmondville Central School District. 
• Teaching at the elementary level at Delaware Academy Central School District. 

“Mr. Whipple stood out not only because of his extensive experience as a teacher, principal and superintendent, but also because of his vision and student-centered leadership,” said Pete Iorizzo, President of the Cooperstown Central School District Board of Education. “He articulated a clear vision for Cooperstown that aligns with our own – to become a regional and national model of excellence in public education. Above all, he has demonstrated throughout his career a commitment to putting the best interests of students first.” 

The Board of Education also expressed its gratitude to Dr. Catherine Huber, ONC BOCES District Superintendent, for serving as the District’s consultant throughout the search process; Mrs. Ann Meccariello, who has served as Interim Superintendent since July; and the District’s faculty and staff for their continued professionalism throughout the transition. 

When Mr. Whipple starts at Cooperstown, his first priority will be getting to know the District and community, he said. 

“I am excited to listen, learn, build relationships and get to know the Cooperstown community,” Mr. Whipple said. “Most importantly, I look forward to working together to provide our students with the opportunities they need to be successful.”