Sarah Cupelli began her duties as Superintendent of Schools for the Waterloo Central School District on Aug. 16.

Ms. Cupelli, who spent her formative years in Geneva, most recently served as the Deputy Superintendent for the Auburn Enlarged City School District. She has also worked as a principal and summer school coordinator for the Syracuse City School District and assistant principal, after-school program director, and elementary school teacher for the Geneva City School District.

Ms. Cupelli, who has spent more than two decades as an innovative leader in education, took a few moments to answer questions on a variety of topics. Her responses are below:

What aspect of your new role excites you the most?

“I am mostly excited about getting back to my roots closer to where I grew up and spent the first half of my educational career. I have connected with so many familiar faces and look forward to building on and establishing relationships.”

What characteristics of the Waterloo Central School District stand out to you?

“In a very short time I have found out, firsthand, how collaborative and supportive the Waterloo CSD is. I have received such a warm welcome and already feel like a member of a very strong team.”

In your entry plan, you list your focus areas as Leadership, Safety, Security and Culture, and Accountability. Why are these things so important to you?

“The most important stakeholders in our district are the students. They deserve to walk in every day to a welcoming school environment, be provided with the tools they need to learn, and families deserve to know that their children are safe. In order for that to happen a strong leadership team and accountability for everyone is critical."

What plans do you have to become acclimated with the administrative team and staff?

“First and foremost, being visible and approachable. I have already met and talked with many staff members and look for that to increase once all staff return on Sept. 3. I plan to visit buildings, attend meetings and events and host times where staff can pop-in to engage in a conversation with me.”

Do you have any community engagement activities planned?

“I am planning to host ‘Slices with the Super’ for elementary families at 6 p.m. on Sept. 12 in the Lafayette Intermediate School Cafeteria and secondary families on at 6 p.m. on Sept. 19 in the LGI at the Middle School. I am also planning to join the Rotary in Waterloo and hope to begin attending meetings in September. Once the school year is under way, I am hoping to have a ‘Tour of the Town’ to connect with community leaders to begin building upon positive partnerships between the school district and community.”

What are your proudest moments as an educator?

“My proudest moments as an educator were every time one of my students met a goal and felt proud of themselves. We have to celebrate wins for every student and help them to see their success. That is what it's all about.”

What or who inspired you to pursue a career in education?

"Julie Hadyk was a third-grade teacher in Geneva, N.Y. She, in my eyes, was the best teacher I have ever had the privilege of knowing. It didn't matter what was going on in or out of school, she always had a smile on her face. She gave 110% every day so that every child could have the best experience possible. She wasn't my third-grade teacher. I always wished she was. I wanted to create that same happiness for children that I saw in her classroom every day.”

What was your favorite subject in school?

“My favorite subject in school was history. I always found it fascinating to learn and study about what happened in the world before I had the opportunity to experience it for myself.“

What do you like to do in your spare time?

“In my spare time I love spending time with my family. I enjoy creating experiences for my children that I hope they will always remember. I enjoy reading, going to the movies and taking family vacations when we are able to.”

What is your favorite food?

“Without question my favorite food is pasta! My husband says I would eat it every day if that were an option! And he is correct, I would!”

What is your favorite book?

"My favorite book is James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl."

What is the best advice that you have received?

“The best advice I have ever received is to never be afraid to ask questions. No one has all the answers!”