Dear Poland Staff and Community,
We are excited to announce the following administrative changes for the 2021-2022 school year. Some of them are familiar Poland community members while others join us from school districts throughout the region. We appreciate all the support during this transition and we are looking forward to serving you, the staff, and the students of Poland.
Dear Students, Staff, Parents and Community Members of the Poland Local School District:
I hope this greeting finds you well and enjoying your time with family and friends this summer.
I am honored and excited to be your Superintendent of Schools. Poland is one of the finest school districts in the state and I’m learning every day that it is because of the tradition of excellence that exists due to the wonderful people of this community and the tireless work of our students and staff.
Although, I do not officially begin my tenure until the first day of August, I have had the chance to meet numerous people in this community and district. I cannot thank each of you enough for your kindness and support during this transition.
For those I have not yet met, I will tell you that I am first and foremost a husband and father. My wife Erin and I have three children—two boys and a girl—ranging in ages from 12 to 18. My daughter, Vivian, is a senior, is involved in fine arts and is passionate about theater and ensemble. My sons, Gino and Rocco, are both football and basketball players and Rocco plays baseball. I am proud that while all three are far from perfect, they each work hard in the classroom and are respectful young citizens.
My wife Erin has been my rock since our wedding day almost 22 years ago. For all my kids’ good qualities, Erin gets the credit. Besides being an amazing mother, she has worked full-time at her family upholstery business for over 30 years. She is supportive of my career, and you will see her around Poland quite a bit.
I believe deeply in building relationships with students, staff, and community members and at the same time being engaged in the community. This is the primary reason I am currently living in Poland.
The Poland district has a distinguished record of academic success and stellar extracurricular programs. I look forward to supporting all of you and becoming part of this successful district. I take it quite seriously that you have entrusted me with the young people of this community and with the faculty and staff that work with them every day. Hold me to the highest of expectations and demand nothing less. I will work hard to meet these expectations each and every day.
Lastly, allow me to congratulate Mr. David Janofa for his leadership at Poland over the past several years as well as Dr. Edwin Holland. These past few years have been difficult and challenging at times. Both contributed their utmost. I wish them well in their retirement. Also, allow me to thank Principal Mike Masucci, Lisa Iberis, and Mr. Mark Zura for their leadership and dedication to Poland. Education is a small world; I’m certain our paths will cross often and we will work together for years to come.
Please stay tuned for my soon-coming formal introduction of some of the new members of the Poland leadership team and more information about the upcoming 2021-2022 school year.
With Great Bulldog Pride,
Craig D. Hockenberry,
Superintendent of Poland
