New superintendent for Valley Stream high schools

After much speculation, and several months of searching, the Central High School District has found a new leader. That person is Dr. Bill Heidenreich, a veteran of the district who has served as the assistant superintendent for personnel and administration for the past seven years.

The news came as a surprise announcement at the June 14 Board of Education meeting with several hundred people in attendance, as the appointment was not on the meeting's original agenda. Board president Ken Cummings initiated a motion for Heidenreich’s appointment to the position, effective July 1. Heidenreich will take over for interim superintendent Dr. Richard Marsh, who has led the district since January. Former superintendent Dr. Marc Bernstein retired in December.

“I accept this, and look forward to the challenges,” Heidenreich said about becoming superintendent. “I look forward to working with the community into the future to bring the schools to higher success.”

Heidenreich also thanked the community and his fellow colleagues.

The search to find a superintendent to replace Bernstein was lengthy process, Cummings noted. A total of 32 applicants applied, and the board interviewed several candidates before selecting Heidenreich, who they agreed was the right person. “We are able to appoint someone in our own backyard,” Cummings said about Heidenreich.

Marsh said it was a true pleasure working with Heidenreich for the last six months. “I know he will move Valley Stream district forward,” he said.

Heidenreich will leave his current position on June 30. His superintendent contract will be for three years, until June 30, 2014.

The appointment was made after the Herald went to press on Tuesday night. Read more in next week's Herald.