The Baldwin Union Free School District has appointed Joseph Braico as its new director of physical education, health education and athletics.
Braico, who began the position July 1, was appointed by the Baldwin Board of Education following a district search. He succeeds Drew Cronin, who retired at the end of the 2025-26 school year.
Braico brings more than 20 years of experience in education and athletic administration, including more than a decade in district-level leadership positions in the Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District.
In his most recent position, Braico oversaw athletic programs serving more than 900 student-athletes on more than 100 teams. His responsibilities included supporting coaches and overseeing programs focused on athletics, student wellness, character development and academic achievement.
Programs under Braico’s leadership earned recognition at the county, regional and state levels, as well as New York State Public High School Athletic Association School of Distinction and School of Excellence honors.
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Braico to the Baldwin family,” Superintendent Anthony Mignella said. “His experience, vision and passion for student success strongly align with our district’s goals and vision. We look forward to the leadership he will bring to our physical education, health education and athletics programs and, most importantly, to the opportunities he will create for our students.”
Braico takes over the department from Cronin, who served the district for several years and oversaw Baldwin’s physical education, health and athletic programs.
