As we begin the 2025-26 school year, the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District is proud to welcome a group of new staff members to our schools.
Last week, nine new teachers participated in our annual New Teacher Orientation. During the two days, our new teachers met with building principals and district leaders, engaged in professional learning, and had the chance to prepare their classrooms for the year ahead.
At RCS High School, Jeffery Artist joined the RCS High School leadership team as our new Assistant Principal. The Board of Education approved Jeff last month to begin on July 7, 2025. Jeff replaces John Thorsen, who assisted us as an interim for most of the 2024-25 school year.
Jeff brings 14 years of experience as a dedicated educator, having taught both high school and middle school English, and most recently serving as a Teacher Leader for Professional Development in the Chatham Central School District. He has led curriculum development, facilitated restorative practices, and supported staff and students alike with a thoughtful, collaborative leadership style.
Stepping in as our Interim Athletic Director, Mr. Steve Boynton is bringing over 20 years of experience in athletic leadership to our district. A seasoned and respected professional, Steve has spent the majority of his career serving as the Athletic Director at Schenectady High School, and most recently held the role of Interim Athletic Director for the City School District of Albany. The District continues its search for a Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. We are confident that our interim leader’s depth of experience and steady guidance will ensure a smooth transition and continued success for our fall athletic programs.
We welcome Traci Johnson as our new Elementary Assistant Principal for A.W. Becker and Pieter B. Coeymans. Traci was appointed at the August 6, 2025, Board of Education meeting and brings more than 20 years of experience in education to her new role.
Traci has served as a building principal for 13 years at All Saints Catholic Academy, where she led with a focus on academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Prior to that, she was assistant principal at Saint Helen’s School in Niskayuna for three years. Her career began in the classroom, where she taught elementary students for six years and developed an understanding of student needs and learning.
In addition to our new teachers and leadership, we’re also welcoming new bus drivers, building aides, teaching assistants, and members of our maintenance team, each one playing an important role in supporting our students and school community!
Starting a new school year is always exciting, and having new faces join the RCS team brings fresh energy, ideas, and enthusiasm. We’re grateful to these individuals for choosing RCS and look forward to the positive impact they’ll have in the months ahead!