Join us in welcoming Mary Sheedy as Schodack’s next Director of Teaching & Learning! Last week, we announced Ms. Sheedy’s appointment and she has now officially started her new role. Since it’s the summer, it may be a bit before some in the Schodack CSD community meet Ms. Sheedy in person, so we checked in with a Q&A so you could learn a bit more about her in the meantime.
Director of Teaching and Learning, Mary Sheedy
Tell us a bit about your background before you came to Schodack.
I’m originally from the Syracuse area, but began my teaching career in North Carolina, working in Special Education. After a few years in the classroom, I transitioned into an Instructional Coach role where I supported both new and veteran teachers across grades at the district level. This experience gave me a strong foundation in adult learning, curriculum implementation, and fostering instructional growth through coaching and collaboration.
After moving back to New York in 2019, I joined the KIPP Tech Valley Primary School team as an instructional leader. There, I worked alongside teachers and families to create a learning environment that was both rigorous and joyful. My work focused on building strong instructional systems, supporting teacher development, and ensuring all students had access to high-quality instruction. These experiences deepened my belief in the power of strong school communities and the impact of thoughtful, student-centered leadership.
What drew you to the Director of Teaching & Learning position and Schodack CSD?
The Director of Teaching & Learning role aligns directly with what I’m truly passionate about in education. Working together to ensure every student has access to an education that maximizes their strengths is critical and that is a major focus of my work in this position.
I was particularly drawn to Schodack because of its close-knit community and the joyful, student-centered approach to learning that’s a clear part of the district’s culture. There is a strong sense of pride and shared responsibility here, and I am grateful and excited to become part of a district with such a rich history and clear vision for the future.
What are your plans for the remainder of the summer before faculty and students return?
My focus for the remainder of the summer is on listening and learning. I’m eager to use this time to start making connections with families, teachers, and staff so I can better understand their experiences and the students we collectively serve. I’ll be asking thoughtful questions, gaining insight, and starting to build relationships with as many people as I can. Laying that foundation over the summer will help ensure I’m prepared to better support everyone when they return to school.
Mary Sheedy and Family
What about you and your work style do you want the Schodack CSD community to know right off the bat?
That student-centered, data-based, collaborative decision making is at the core of my work. I believe that when we ground our efforts in shared goals and a clear vision for student success, we’re better equipped to move forward together. My approach is rooted in partnership, and I see myself as a teammate in this work. I also believe in celebrating progress and creating space for joy in the work we do!
What’s life like outside work for you?
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling. My husband and I have two little ones – Maura (4) and Jonah (1) – and we’re on the move a lot! Whether it be running to dance class or hopping on a plane, we love to go on adventures together. I also love to check out local coffee shops and you can often find me on a “coffee date” with one of my kids on Saturday mornings.
