Newfield school district selects new superintendent

The Newfield Central School District (CSD) Board of Education officially selected its new superintendent, according to an announcement.

Jesse Harper has been appointed to be at the helm of Newfield CSD, effective July 1 of this year. Harper will replace current superintendent Eric Hartz, who is retiring at the end of 2024-25 school year.

“It is with deep gratitude and great optimism that I step into the role of Superintendent of the Newfield Central School District,” Harper said in the announcement. “I am truly honored to become part of a community that is deeply committed to the success and well-being of its students. Newfield is known for its proud tradition of educational excellence and its strong, collaborative community partnerships. I am excited to roll up my sleeves and work alongside the students, staff, families, and community members of Newfield to continue building on this strong foundation and make a positive impact for all our learners.”

Harper has a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration from SUNY Brockport. He also received a master of science degree in education and a bachelor’s degree in materials science — both from Alfred University.

Holding multiple New York State certifications, including being a school district and building leader, Harper also has permanent certifications in physics and chemistry for seventh through 12th grade.

“The Newfield Board of Education is delighted to welcome Jesse Harper as the next superintendent of Newfield CSD,” said Christina Ward, Newfield BOE president. “Jesse brings with him a wealth of experience that we are excited to see applied to our district. Some of his past proven skills include exceptional communication with staff, students, and community; enhancing opportunities for students; and working with students and staff to create a student centered learning environment, while cultivating leaders and growth from within. We are looking forward to July 1 and Newfield’s future in partnering with Mr. Harper.”

Harper brings more than two decades of experience in public education and district leadership to Newfield. Harper was previously the superintendent for Arkport Central School District.

Noted in the release: “During his tenure as superintendent there, he led strategic planning, implemented an ambitious equity and inclusion agenda, and oversaw multiple capital projects totaling over $20 million. He is known for his commitment to student-centered leadership, transparency, and building strong community partnerships.”

Harper’s leadership at Arkport CSD fostered the development of the district’s first pre-kindergarten program, the expansion of arts and agriculture programming and the implementation of a district-wide behavioral intervention plan.

Stated in the announcement: “Harper’s financial stewardship, combined with his ability to lead with empathy and clarity during times of fiscal stress, has earned him widespread respect. He also led innovative work in curriculum development, mental health support for staff, and efforts to ensure equitable access to resources for all students.”

The Newfield CSD superintendent search was led by Lily Talcott, Tompkins-Seneca-Tioga BOCES district superintendent.

“[The search] began with district-wide outreach, where stakeholders shared insights on the district’s current strengths, key areas for growth and the desired characteristics in its next leader,” Talcott said. “These contributions shaped the search criteria and guided the board’s decision-making. In the final stage of the process, representative interview teams evaluated finalist candidates and provided essential feedback to the board.”

Talcott, who was born and raised in Enfield, said in the past that it’s important to bring on someone who loves the community and the region. 

“This is a really special place. This is my home and community, as well,” she added.

The combined statement from the Newfield BOE noted that they are confident in Harper’s “vision, experience, and values will lead the district into an exciting new chapter of innovation, inclusion, and academic success.”

Newfield Notes appears every week in Tompkins Weekly. Send story ideas to editorial@vizellamedia.com.

In brief:

Newfield CSD’s budget vote, board of education election is May 20

The Newfield Central School District will hold the annual budget and board of education election on May 20 from noon to 9 p.m. at the Newfield Elementary School gym.

According to a presentation by Perry Gorgen, Newfield CSD’s business administrator, the district’s 2025-26 budget is projected to be $26,492,408.

The total number is an increase of $1,122,080, or 4.26%, from the 2024-25 budget ($25,411,093).

The proposed tax levy increase is 2.5%, or $184,015, for the 2025-26 school year. This puts the tax levy from $7,360,602 for 2024-25 to $7,544,617 for 2025-26.

For more information, go to newfieldschools.org.

Details provided on Greensprings Garden Club

The Greensprings Garden Club is now up and running in the town of Newfield.

The club will meet at Greensprings Natural Cemetery Preserve, 293 Irish Hill Rd., from 10 a.m. to noon every first and third Wednesday between May and October.

The following is a description of the club:

“Volunteer with us as we divide perennials, mulch plantings, plant shrubs, pull weeds, pot up perennials, rake leaves, spread gravel and more. Drop-in and lend a hand at our nursery and demo gardens, Remembrance Grove or Reflection Pond. Volunteers are led by staff, and work varies and can be tailored to abilities and experience. Bring your sunhat and a water bottle.”

For more information, call 607-564-7577 or email info@naturalburial.org.