C.W. Baker High School Principal Kris Denton Named Director of Academic Services, Visual and Performing Arts
The Baldwinsville Central School District is pleased to announce that C.W. Baker High School Principal Kris Denton has been appointed by the Board of Education as the new Director of Academic Services, Visual and Performing Arts. Mr. Denton has served as the high school principal since the 2019-2020 school year. He will start his new role on July 1, 2025.
The newly created Director of Academic Services, Visual and Performing Arts position will include the administration and supervision of student programs that directly support student learning, including monitoring classroom instruction, professional learning, management of extra-curricular opportunities, student disciplinary hearings and assisting in curriculum development for all subject areas. In addition, the role includes the responsibility to plan and execute a broad and vital Fine and Performing Arts Program.
“Mr. Denton’s experience in leadership, dedication to student success and passion for the visual and performing arts make him the perfect candidate for this new position,” Superintendent Dr. Joseph M. DeBarbieri said. “He has made a major impact on C.W. Baker High School during his time as principal and I look forward to working with him in this new role.”
A lifelong Baldwinsville native and proud alumnus of the district’s music and arts program, Mr. Denton brings a deep-rooted passion for the arts and education to his new role.
“My connection to Baldwinsville’s rich arts community began when I was a kid,” Mr. Denton said. “I actively participated in high school musicals and Baldwinsville Theater Guild productions starting in the third grade. As a high school senior, I was a member of the esteemed Vocal Jazz group, Silk and Satin, further solidifying my love to perform.”
Mr. Denton continues to perform as the guitarist and lead singer for the local band Salt City Getaway. He is a founding board member of the Baldwinsville Community Hall of Fame for Visual and Performing Arts. Mr. Denton has two children. His daughter Ilsa is a senior at Cazenovia High School, and currently auditioning for musical theater programs and his son Sam is a sophomore at RIT studying computer science.
“I’m eager to step into this new position and continue fostering an environment where students can thrive artistically and academically,” Mr. Denton said. “My vision includes expanding opportunities for students in the arts, strengthening community partnerships, and celebrating the incredible talent within the district.”
Eric Ziegler named Director of Technology, Data Management & Innovation
The Baldwinsville Central School District is pleased to announce that Learning Coach Eric Ziegler has been appointed by the Board of Education as the Director of Technology, Data Management & Innovation. Mr. Ziegler has been employed by the district since 2002. He will start his new role on July 1, 2025.
Mr. Ziegler is currently in his second year of an Administrative Internship serving as an Assistant Principal at Ray Middle School and Durgee Junior High as well as working with District Technology.
“I am extremely excited to be joining the administration team in the role as Director of Technology, Data Management, and Innovation,” Mr. Ziegler said.
Mr. Ziegler joined the district as a science teacher in 2002 teaching Living Environment and AP Biology at C.W. Baker High School. In 2013, he became a Technology Integration Specialist supporting staff and students in the use of educational technologies, leveraging impactful student centered instructional practices, and helping implement some of the district’s goals such as becoming a 1:1 device technology ecosystem and utilizing Google Workspace.
“My science background also provided me the opportunity to provide support and professional development to our staff in the area of the pK-12 science standards and learning progression and in 2015, my role expanded into a STEM Learning Coach assisting aligning instruction with curriculum to meet the needs of all students,” Mr. Ziegler said. “My career opportunities and experiences have been rewarding working in such an excellent district with such passionate, dedicated people around me. Baldwinsville pride runs deep in me!”
Superintendent Dr. Joseph M. DeBarbieri said Mr. Ziegler has a strong background in technology and a dedicated work ethic.
“I believe Mr. Ziegler’s experience and fresh perspective will be invaluable to our Technology Department and to our district,” Dr. DeBarbieri said.
Mr. Ziegler’s wife of almost 23 years, Dana, is the Executive Director of Curriculum in Liverpool. They are the parents of Austin, a college sophomore, majoring in automotive technologies and Addison, who is a senior at Liverpool High School looking to pursue a degree in business administration.
“I am beyond excited to jump into this new role working alongside the excellent staff in Baldwinsville and serving our students and community,” He said. “Together, I believe we will continue to achieve greatness!”
Director of Instructional Technology Richard DeLisle is set to retire at the end of the school year.
Director of Academic Services Melissa Chiodo named next Director of Elementary Education
The Baldwinsville Central School District is pleased to announce that Director of Academic Services Melissa Chiodo has been appointed by the Board of Education as the next Director of Elementary Education. Ms. Chiodo’s new role starts on July 1, 2025.
Ms. Chiodo is a dedicated educational leader who has spent the past 13 years with the Baldwinsville Central School District at Ray Middle School, Reynolds Elementary, and in the District Office. Prior to her current administrative position, Ms. Chiodo was the principal at Reynolds Elementary School until the end of the 2023-2024 school year.
Melissa has also worked as a Middle School Assistant Principal and an instructional coach.
“Ms. Chiodo’s extensive background in leadership roles, curriculum development and teacher support make her the ideal candidate for the Director of Elementary Education position,” said Superintendent Dr. Joseph M. DeBarbieri.
Ms. Chiodo said she prioritizes communication, teamwork, and innovation to create a positive educational culture.
"As I step into the role of Director of Elementary Education, I am excited about the opportunity to further enrich our educational programs and support our dedicated teachers,” Ms. Chiodo said. “My hope is to cultivate an environment where every student feels valued and empowered to achieve their fullest potential.”
Director of Elementary Education Tony Cardamone is set to retire at the end of the school year.
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