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Pinewood Intermediate School has two new administrators this year. Michele Hunter was named principal this summer, and Deborah Kavanaugh was named assistant principal.
 Michele Hunter is a familiar face to the district. After college, she was a permanent substitute at South Colonie Schools for one year, and then became a fifth-grade teacher at our very own Pinewood Intermediate School, where she stayed for four years. Hunter left Pinewood to become an Instructional Supervisor at Malta Avenue Intermediate School in the Ballston Spa School District, where she was for the three years prior to accepting the Pinewood Principalship.
“I’m thrilled to return to the Pinewood community. I am committed to ensure that all students experience success,” said Hunter.
Hunter holds a master’s degree in educational administration from the University at Albany, a second master’s degree in literacy from the College of Saint Rose, and a bachelor’s of science degree in elementary education from the State University at Oswego.
Hunter is eager to capitalize on the momentum, energy and stability that Dr. Johnson brought to the school last year. She feels her former instructional leadership role at the intermediate level will be a huge asset, and she is looking forward to continue working with the teachers and staff to increase student achievement.
“I believe in cultivating partnerships between parents, teachers, and students. These partnerships facilitate consistent communication and a team-oriented approach that enhance student achievement and growth,” added Hunter.
 Deborah Kavanaugh comes from Mayfield Jr.-Sr. High School, where she was the assistant principal for three years. Before that she worked as a school social worker and team leader for the Board of Cooperative Education for over four years.
“I am both excited and honored to be a part of the Pinewood community and to be joining such a strong and committed district, administrative team and faculty,” said Kavanaugh. “Since starting my position, I have been tremendously impressed with the district’s extraordinary and progressive commitment, dedication and vision to the success of all children.”
Kavanaugh received her bachelor’s degree from Russell Sage College, and graduated from the University at Albany with a masters in social work. She earned her School District Administrator certification from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in 2004.
“I am dedicated to creating and maintaining strong relationships with faculty, students, parents and the community to ensure that all students have a positive and successful school experience,” adds Kavanaugh. “I believe that my administrative background and my strong experience with young children and families will assist me in helping the Pinewood team to create a safe, nurturing, and academically invigorating program where students feel welcomed and appreciated for their individual talents and strengths. My hope and goal is that the energy and driven commitment that Ms. Hunter and I bring to our positions will be infectious throughout the Pinewood community.”
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