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A Historic New Chapter: Shenendehowa Board of Education Appoints Dr. Cecily Wilson-Turner as First Female Superintendent

In a landmark decision for the Shenendehowa Central School District, the Board of Education has officially appointed Dr. Cecily Wilson-Turner as the district’s next Superintendent of Schools. The appointment, confirmed at the March 24 board meeting, marks a historic turning point as Dr. Wilson-Turner becomes the first woman to lead the district since its inception.

With a career spanning over 25 years, Dr. Wilson-Turner is a seasoned K-12 educator and executive leader. Her deep expertise across all facets of public school administration, including 11 years in central office leadership, positioned her as the definitive choice to guide Shenendehowa into its next era.

“Dr. Wilson-Turner is a highly qualified and experienced leader who understands the needs and priorities of our district,” said Board of Education President Deanna Stephenson. “Her appointment is a reflection of her exceptional track record and our confidence that she will continue to advance our mission. We are certain she will unify and inspire our district, ensuring every student feels safe, supported, and prepared for success.”

Newly appointed Superintendent Dr. Wilson-Turner first joined Shenendehowa in 2023 as Deputy Superintendent, later serving as the district’s Interim Superintendent. Her career is rooted in a deep academic foundation, including a Doctorate from Columbia University, a Master’s from NYU, and a Bachelor’s from Princeton. Prior to her leadership at Shen, she held various roles from elementary teacher to high school principal and most recently served as an Assistant Superintendent in Albany, where she focused on helping every student reach their full potential.

“It is with a great sense of honor and excitement that I officially assume the role of Superintendent for the Shenendehowa Central School District,” said Dr. Cecily Wilson-Turner. “I carry forward the work of many others to ensure that our ‘Commitment to Excellence’ withstands the test of time through the continuous actualization of the district mission and goals. Over my last 25 years as an educator, I have developed and embodied a stalwart commitment to creating quality learning environments and fostering a culture of high support and expectations for all students and staff to ensure we produce significant outcomes that enhance the school community. I look forward to the opportunities ahead that will continue to define who we are as a district, what we mean to our community, and partner with our dedicated staff to ensure we send our students out prepared to shape the world.”

The appointment follows a rigorous and transparent search process led by Lauren J. Gemmill of Capital Region BOCES. The Board’s decision was informed by extensive community feedback, including an online survey and 22 community forums, ensuring the next leader aligned with the values of Shenendehowa families and staff. The selection of Dr. Wilson-Turner embodies the community’s clear desire for a leader that is student-centered, authentically approachable, and highly visible within their hallways.

Dr. Wilson-Turner’s historic appointment is effective March 24, 2026. Her continued focus remains on the immediate priorities of the 2026-27 budget development and the highly anticipated opening of the brand-new Atrea Early Learning Center and start of the district’s full-day kindergarten program in fall 2026.