Chabe introduced as Amherst's new superintendent at meeting
by PATRICK J. NAGY Reporter

Laura K. Chabe was officially introduced as the Amherst Central School District's new superintendent at a special Board of Education meeting on March 13.

Chabe, who has been Westfield Academy and Central Schools' superintendent for the past four years, will start her new position upon the retirement of current Amherst Superintendent Dennis Ford in June. Chabe's contract, which was ratified at the meeting, runs from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2010.

"I can't really express how thrilled I am to have been appointed superintendent," said Chabe. "It is truly an honor and privilege."

Chabe cites Amherst's educational program, supportive community and School Board, and higher enrollment as reasons to leave Westfield.

"This district has such a strong tradition of excellence," said Chabe. "It became apparent to me through the interview process how committed not only the board was but also the community and students to make sure needs are being met. You can't really ask much more out of a district."

The appointment of Chabe follows a five-month search by the board to find a successor to Ford, who has been the district's superintendent for the last 11 years.

Board President William T. Blanford said the district received input from various stakeholders inside and outside the district through a series of focus groups to decide what characteristics would fit the new superintendent.

The selection process was conducted by Vincent Coppola of the Western New York Educational Service Council at the University at Buffalo on a confidential basis to ensure participation from numerous qualified candidates.

"We're deeply grateful for the community and everyone involved in the process for their input," said Blanford. "The board and the community have high expectations, and we feel confident we've selected the right person in leading the district to continued success."

Blanford said one of the reasons why the board chose Chabe was her ability to communicate with people.

Chabe said her primary goals are to learn as much as she can about the school district. She also wants to meet with Ford and other administrators before she begins to get a feel for the district's issues.

She said Ford is going to be a tough act to follow, but she feels it will be an easy transition because he's done such a great job.

Chabe, a 1982 graduate of Fredonia State College, has more than 20 years of experience in education. Prior to her current position as Westfield superintendent, she served four years as an elementary school principal at Westfield, four years in administration and eight years as a special education teacher in the Fredonia Central School District, and three years as a special education teacher in the Liberty Central School District.

She earned a certificate in administration from Fredonia State College and a master's degree in special education from the University at Albany. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in educational leadership and policy at the University at Buffalo.

e-mail: pnagy@beenews.com