As part of its ongoing commitment to efficiency, leadership development, and fiscal responsibility, the Gates Chili Central School District is making strategic changes to its leadership and operational structure.

These adjustments, which begin taking effect on March 31, with most changes fully implemented by July 1, 2025, will result in more than $200,000 in cost savings while improving services and aligning resources to better support students and staff.

“These shifts are not just about restructuring—they are about sustainability,” said Superintendent Christopher J. Dailey. “By making thoughtful adjustments now, we are ensuring that resources are allocated where they are needed most, while also maintaining strong leadership and a forward-thinking approach to district operations.”

Key changes include:

• Dr. Mitchell Ball will be promoted to Deputy Superintendent. Since 2020, Dr. Ball has led major capital projects, secured increased state aid, and strengthened the district’s financial position. In his expanded role, he will oversee key districtwide initiatives to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
• The Business Office will transition into the Finance Department, led by Sally Sanford as Director of Finance and Jessica Latone as District Treasurer. Payroll and benefits will move to the Human Resources Department, with Clara Scardino moving into the role of Payroll and Benefits Supervisor. The district will also hire a Director of Human Resources to oversee payroll, benefits and aspects of personnel and labor relations.

• Sam Bell will become Executive Director of Operations and Security, overseeing facilities, school nutrition, transportation and security.
• Anna Lamb will move to the Operations Department as Director of Construction and Safety Compliance, supporting capital projects and safety initiatives.
• Steve Torres will be promoted to Security Supervisor, and Joe DeSanto will continue to support Facilities as Facilities Supervisor.
• The Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics position will move under the Office of Instruction to better align PE, health curriculum, and instruction.
• Continuing Education will transition to the Communications Department, under Iva Petrosino, who will become Executive Director of Communications and Community Engagement.
• The Nursing Department and health office staff will shift to Student Support Services to create a more integrated approach to student well-being.
• Student Support Services will be restructured following the retirement of longtime administrator Julie Stark. One administrative position will be eliminated, while Danielle Latore, Angelina Pound, and Dr. Tabitha Woody will assume the roles of Directors of Student Support Services. Additionally, a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) will be added to support the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) process.
  
  

These changes, along with a combination of retirements, resignations, and role adjustments, allow the district to maintain strong leadership while saving more than $200,000. The district remains committed to ensuring these transitions are seamless and that students, families, and staff continue to receive high-quality support.

“We appreciate the dedication of our staff and school community in supporting these efforts,” Dailey added. “These strategic moves will allow us to remain responsive to the evolving needs of our district while ensuring long-term sustainability.”