Ulster BOCES is welcoming veteran educator and school leader Ed Forgit as its new assistant superintendent for operations. Forgit, who brings nearly three decades of experience to the role, began his new position on Aug. 19.

Forgit began his career in early childhood education, working as a special education teacher in Greenwood Lake. He later served as chair and supervisor of special education for the same school district, before joining Dutchess BOCES, where he held a variety of positions, including education coordinator, assistant director, and director for the Hudson Valley Regional School Support Center.

"I became inspired by the work that was occurring under the new administrative team," Forgit said in a statement. "The opportunity to return to an organization that helped prepare me for a successful career just felt right."

Forgit's appointment was unanimously approved by the board at its June 26 meeting. He will begin in a four-year contract with a starting salary of $175,000.

"Through collaboration, I hope to learn how I might add value that will impact the lives of students at Ulster BOCES and in the school districts across the county," he said. "I also hope to help improve the efficiency of the organization by putting processes and procedures in place that will be beneficial to everyone."

Forgit has served as an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction and deputy superintendent in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District, where he helped implement a variety of initiatives.

"Working in Newburgh has prepared me to better connect with the local school districts and to understand the success, barriers, and obstacles confronting them," he said. "This will afford me the opportunity to work with the team to develop supports that will meet their unique needs."

Forgit says that he is fortunate to have participated in several training sessions offered by the New York State Education Department, Harvard University, the New York City Leadership Academy, and the National Learning Forward Conferences. He also spoke about the importance of working closely with school leaders and stakeholders to ensure that the Ulster BOCES community is well-positioned for success.

"I have been trained as a leadership coach and take great pride in building the capacity of adult learners," he said.