Press release:
Elba Central School Superintendent Keith Palmer has announced he will retire this fall. The Elba Board of Education voted to accept Palmer’s letter of retirement during their annual reorganizational meeting earlier this month.
Palmer has served as Elba’s Superintendent since his appointment in July of 2015 following 12 years as Pembroke’s High School Principal. Having spent the last 28 years as a public school administrator, Palmer is quick to point out that he has been attending school every year for the past 50 years.
"I have been very fortunate to be able to work with so many good people and talented educators over my entire career," Palmer said. "I sincerely believe there is no higher calling than that of a teacher and I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had in working with and on behalf of our young people."
During Palmer’s time at Elba, the District has seen growth in student academic achievement as well as increased stability with school finances.
"Although Mr. Palmer has been at Elba a short time his influence will be felt for years to come," said Board President Mike Augello. "With his guidance our district has overcome some challenges and we have most importantly improved our students educational experience and academic success. Very quickly Mr. Palmer became part of the Elba community and he has put us on a path to achieve our goals including being a top district in our area.
"It has been a pleasure getting to know and work with Keith. The Board of Education along with the entire community wishes him and his wife the best in their retirement. I don’t think we can replace Mr. Palmer but we are looking forward to hiring our next superintendent and are excited for the next chapter here at Elba."
Before Palmer’s time at Elba and Pembroke, he worked 12 years as assistant principal at Kendall High School and four years as a Math teacher at North Warren Central School in the Adirondacks.
"I’ve always been drawn to small schools," Palmer said. "We all are required to wear many hats which create possibilities for learning and for developing relationships outside the classroom or office. Relationships and support are strong at Elba and this community is a constant reminder as to the importance of family."
Palmer and his wife intend to sell their home in Albion and move closer to family in Washington, D.C., before "having to bring out the snow blower one more time."
Augello said the District is working with Genesee Valley Educational Partnership Superintendent Kevin McDonald in the search for Palmer’s replacement.
