District News

A familiar face will take the lead of the Lancaster Central School District’s Special Education Department following the retirement of the department’s longtime Director.

Erin Gannon, who has served as Assistant Director of Special Education for the past four years, was named the department’s new Director. She said it was a privilege to have learned from outgoing Director John Armstrong, who built a lasting legacy within Lancaster’s special education program.

“I promise to take the foundation that he's built here in Lancaster for special education and continue to build upon it and make us the best we can be,” Gannon said, during a Board of Education meeting on March 10.

Andrew Krazmien, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Pupil Personnel Services, said Gannon has earned a strong reputation with colleagues, families and outside agencies for her knowledge and thoughtful leadership that puts students as the first priority.

“She's a critical thinker who has the ability to brainstorm creative solutions to challenging situations while simultaneously maintaining the integrity of programming for the students of Lancaster,” Krazmien said.

Andrew P. Kufel, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools, said that Gannon’s work ethic and willingness to be “honest and direct” are appreciated, and that she cares deeply about the district’s students and the community.

To fill Gannon’s previous role, John Tresmond was appointed by the Board of Education on June 9 to serve as Assistant Director of Special Education. Prior to his selection, Tresmond served as Assistant Principal at Lancaster Middle School, where he was credited with creating increased opportunities for students of all abilities.

“Under his leadership, we've seen the successful implementation of inclusion models that provide opportunities for our students with special needs to participate in both advanced and Regents-level courses as well as expanding the inclusive exploratory offerings, creating meaningful access for our highest need learners,” Gannon said.

Tresmond said he looked forward to building on the department’s work.

“Together, I'm confident we can continue driving meaningful progress, ensuring that every student in the Special Education Department receives the support, advocacy and opportunities that they deserve,” he said. 

More information about the Special Education Department can be found at https://www.lancasterschools.org/departments/special-education.