It has been a month since Dr. Dustin LeMay took over the reins of superintendent for the North Putnam School District, and he admits it has been a great time. 

"I love my job. It means the world to me how welcoming everyone has been. I have been in almost every classroom," LeMay told The Putnam County Post. 

LeMay was hired late last year to replace interim superintendent Dr. Nicole Singer, who replaced Nicole Allee, who resigned in 2023. LeMay came 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 he has noticed a constant theme as he has made his way through the schools and visited with his transportation department -- family. 

"North Putnam schools feel like family and that is special. I want to make sure everyone knows that this is a great place to learn and grow," LeMay said. 

He is also using the time to solidify several goals he has for the district. However, when hired, LeMay said one of his major goals was to make sure students within the district were going to North Putnam schools. 

"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.