A Note from the BOE: Dr. G's Retirement and Next Steps

Dear Mount Pleasant Community,

By now, you have heard the bittersweet news: our Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Peter Giarrizzo, has announced his retirement, to be effective at the end of the 2026-27 school year.  While we are personally delighted for Dr. G and his family, we are also deeply saddened by his departure from our community.  Nevertheless, we wish him all the best health and happiness in his retirement, and look forward to keeping in touch with him and his family.  

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. G for all that he has accomplished in his five years as our Superintendent and Chief Wildcat.  He is leaving us in a much better place than when he joined us, and that, after all, is the hallmark of a true leader.  Under Dr. G’s leadership and guidance, we successfully emerged from the pandemic, improved student outcomes in several areas, began or completed significant capital projects, and delivered tax-cap-compliant budgets every year, all the while maintaining, and in fact improving, programs for all students.     

The Board is extremely appreciative that Dr. G has notified us a year in advance of his retirement, affording the District ample time to plan.  We are confident that the talented administrative team Dr. G has put in place during his time here in Mt. Pleasant will help maintain consistency across our schools during this period and aid the transition process once a new superintendent is hired.     

The Board understands and appreciates the importance of the task at hand.  Selection of a superintendent is one of the most critical functions of the Board.  One of the Board’s primary goals throughout this selection process is transparency.

With that said, the Board is ready to begin the search for a new Superintendent immediately.  At present, we are seeking demonstrations of interest from reputable, experienced superintendent search firms to guide us through this important and time-consuming process. As with previous superintendent searches, we anticipate involving our students, parents, community members, and staff.  The Board plans to send out regular e-mail updates to the community as this all progresses.  

In closing, the Board wishes everyone a happy June- it is a busy and exciting time of year, with many things to celebrate across the District.  We look forward to seeing you at these events and celebrating our shared Wildcat pride!  

Sincerely,

The Mount Pleasant Central School District Board of Education

Sara M. Beaty, President
Michael Griffin, Vice President
Michael Horan
Steven Mastrosimone
Laura Michalec Olszewski
Christopher Pinchiaroli
Colleen Scaglione Neglia