OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Wendy Harrod has resigned from the role of building principal at the Silver Creek Central School District.

SILVER CREEK — Just when the Silver Creek Central School District felt like its administrative team was set, the need for another change arose. Wendy Harrod has resigned from the district as a building principal.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude for the extraordinary honor it has been to serve as the high school principal at Silver Creek High School and to grow as a leader within this remarkable district,” Harrod said in her letter of resignation. “This role has provided me with invaluable experiences and opportunities for professional development that I will carry with me throughout my career. The chance to work alongside dedicated educators, support staff, administrators, and this Board of Education has been truly transformative.”

Harrod just completed her first year as Silver Creek High School Principal. She was set to transition to Elementary Principal this upcoming year, switching roles with Heather Krystofiak, who will be the High School Principal next year. Since that move was announced, however, Harrod has reconsidered.

Harrod elected to resign to put her family first following a medical incident in her immediate family. In her letter of resignation, Harrod said, “The responsibilities of caregiving and supporting my family through this challenging time have required a tremendous amount of focus and energy.”

Harrod attended the latest Board meeting to explain her decision and to thank the Board for the opportunity she was provided this past year.

“I am particularly grateful for the grace, understanding, and support you have shown me as a brand-new principal, navigating both the learning curve of a new position in educational leadership and the unexpected challenges in my personal life. The board’s support and professionalism have exemplified the values that make Silver Creek Central School District such a special place,” Harrod stated.

Superintendent Dr. Katie Ralston stated that Harrod leaves the district on good terms and that the change was only due to personal circumstances.

“Wendy had so much character and grace with how she had to handle all of this,” Ralston said. “Life reminds you that there are humans behind all of these positions.”

The district is now seeking a replacement for the role of Elementary Principal. A memorandum of agreement was approved to accurately define Heather Krystofiak as a building principal moving forward as the change to her new role in the High School will remain on track.

Other recent resignations from the district include Social Worker Sara Marranca, Elementary Teacher Jessica Tarnowski, and Teacher Aide Jennifer Jamison.

Also of note, Aimee Sleeth was appointed as Native American Career Pathway Program Coordinator through the My Brother’s Keeper Grant. Samantha Scanlan is the program’s Family Liaison/Mentor. Michelle Helmer is the program’s School Administrator. Helmer also serves as the Title VI Grant Administrator.

Elizabeth Guzzetta was appointed to the role of Teacher on Special Assignment for the Committee on Special Education and Section 504 Committee. Nicholas Gerard, Danielle Dietrick, and Director of Special Education Megan Cook are committee members, as well. Kristy Jones was appointed as a parent member.

Donna Roof was appointed as the Director of Community Education for the 2025-2026 school year at a rate of $1,835 per semester. Beth Miller was appointed as the Community Center Coordinator for the 2025-2026 school year with a stipend of $5,000. Karielle Case was named as Site Coordinator for the WNY Food Bank Back Pack Program for the 2025-2026 school year with a stipend of $3,000. Kristin McChesney was named as the district’s Knight-U Coordinator for the 2025-2026 school year with a stipend of $5,000.

The district also nominated Christine Schnars as the New York State School Boards Association Area 3 Director. Alicia Rutkowski was appointed as a teacher of record, retroactive to May 12. Gavin Defries, Tyler Januchowski, Tanner Templin, and Everett LeBarron were approved as Summer Information Technology interns. Andrew Lanphere was approved as a Summer Weight Room Supervisor. Summer transportation staff and clerical staff were also approved.

Pamela Postle was appointed as Substitute Assistant Transportation Director, to fill in during any absence of Lisa Izzio, Transportation Director, as needed. Alison Gondek and Kelly Pieniazek were selected as Co-Mentoring Program Coordinators. A number of teacher mentors were approved, as well. Substitutes for the 2025-2026 school year, across various roles within the district, were also approved.

Sean Helmer was re-appointed as Athletic Director. Catherine Casselberry was named as Pool Director. Also approved were various athletic coaches, lifeguards and fitness guards for the 2025-2026 school year.

Several shared sports programs were approved, including football, cheerleading, soccer, cross country, Unified bocce, wrestling, indoor track, outdoor track, golf, flag football, and baseball.

The next regular Board of Education meeting will be Aug. 14 at 6 p.m.