College of New Rochelle Alumnus Leads New Rochelle's Educational Transformation as Superintendent
On July 1, 2023, Dr. Corey W. Reynolds, CNR GS ’05, an accomplished College of New Rochelle (CNR) alumnus, assumed the role of superintendent of schools for the City of New Rochelle School District. As a seasoned educational leader, Reynolds is dedicated to eliminating the basic obstacles to learning and paving the way for students to thrive.
“It is an honor, in this role, to build the opportunity for students to be able to relate to their work, their learning, and their educational system,” said Reynolds.
Reynolds’ journey to becoming superintendent is a testament to his passion for education and student success. After college, he briefly worked as a lead accounts receivable coordinator but soon found his true calling as a camp counselor and director. This experience, coupled with his desire to positively influence young people's lives, led him to pursue a career in education. He began as an elementary school teacher and proceeded to rise in the ranks. He has held leadership positions in various Westchester County, New York districts, including Greenburgh Central School District, White Plains School District, Yonkers Public Schools and the Ossining Union Free School District.
Much of Reynolds’ professional growth can be attributed to CNR, where he obtained a Master of Administration and Supervision. Through the degree program, he developed essential skills and built strong relationships with peers and mentors. The cohort development model at CNR, along with guidance from professors like Dr. Dennis Lauro, equipped him with the tools needed to lead a vibrant school district with almost 10,000 students and more than 2,000 staff and faculty into the future.
As superintendent, Reynolds shares common goals with other educational leaders: student achievement, safety and fiscal responsibility. His number one priority, however, is to, “…cultivate a positive climate and culture within the district. I aim to foster an all-inclusive environment that values every voice and seeks to address the needs of all stakeholders.” In terms of the district’s students, “…my goal is to produce model citizens who are strong, compassionate and active in their communities.”
When asked about the most rewarding aspects of his role, Reynolds’ face lights up. He finds immense satisfaction in seeing the smiles in students' eyes as they learn and grow. Learning, he believes, should be a “…noisy and joyous process.”
Further, Reynolds envisions the City of New Rochelle School District moving towards becoming one of the top ten school districts in the nation. “I see the district regaining its status as an educational gem and a beacon of excellence,” he said.