The search for a superintendent is over for the North Putnam School District, as the board has hired Dr. Dustin LeMay to replace interim superintendent Dr. Nicole Singer. Singer replaced Nicole Allee, who resigned earlier this year. 

"I am counting down the days until my start date of Dec. 5. I would like to thank Dr. Milner and the school board members for their support during this transition period," LeMay told The Putnam County Post. 

LeMay comes to North Putnam from Avon Schools, where he served as director of teaching and learning in grades 7-12. 

He said what first caught his attention about North Putnam was the focus on community. 

"Everyone I have spoken with in North Putnam cares deeply about the community and the schools. There are so many strengths in the district such as academic achievement, the FFA program and athletics. There is a great emphasis on providing students with unique opportunities both within and beyond the classroom that is impressive," LeMay said. 

LeMay said there were several educators who made a positive impact in his life when he was young and helped plant the seed of getting into education. 

"Learning was not always easy for me, but my teachers and coaches never gave up and kept encouraging me to reach my potential. I went into education to make an impact with all students in the same way," LeMay admitted.

As for what he enjoys about education, LeMay said it is the fact that through all his roles as teacher, coach and administrator, he has had many opportunities to build relationships with students and families to make a difference in their lives and the community. 

He will arrive on Dec. 5 with several goals in mind that he would like to accomplish at North Putnam, beginning with enrollment. 

"We want North Putnam kids going to North Putnam and not to other schools. One way we can accomplish this is to build on the opportunities already in place, with new partnerships for STEM, advanced placement and work based learning," LeMay said. 

In addition, he said another goal is to continue the work already started with the school board to improve and enhance the district's facilities. 

"Before setting additional goals, I am excited to get started and really listen and learn within the schools and community. I want to hear from all stakeholders -- students, staff, families and the broader community -- to get their thoughts and ideas that will help us build goals for the future together," LeMay said.