Elementary Principal Bio

Catherine Casey joined Germantown Central School District as Elementary Principal in July 2026. She brings 20 years of experience in public education, having served as an English language arts teacher, instructional technology coach, assistant principal, and most recently, an educational specialist with the Office of Teacher and Leader Development at the New York State Education Department. 

Mrs. Casey earned dual bachelor's degrees in English and Organizational Communications from the State University of New York at Geneseo, a Master of Education degree from The College of Saint Rose, and School Building and District Leadership certificates through the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts' Leadership Academy. She also holds professional certification in English Language Arts (7–12) and is an ISTE Certified Technology Educator. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Policy and Leadership at University at Albany. 

Throughout her career, Mrs. Casey has been passionate about helping every child succeed through high-quality instruction and building meaningful relationships. As an assistant principal at Watervliet Elementary School, she led initiatives to strengthen literacy instruction, improve student attendance, expand intervention systems, and support the social and emotional well-being of students. During her time with the New York State Education Department, she assisted educators across the state by developing guidance and delivering professional learning on NYS STEPS, New York's educator evaluation system adopted in 2024. 

Mrs. Casey believes that schools are the heart of a community, and she is excited to work with Germantown's talented faculty, dedicated families, and supportive community to maintain a joyful and challenging learning environment where every child feels known and inspired to grow. "Elementary school is where children first discover their strengths, make new friends, and develop a lifelong love of learning. I am honored to join the Germantown community and look forward to working together to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive."

Outside of school, Mrs. Casey lives in the Capital Region with her husband, Chris, and their three children. She enjoys reading, running, yoga, and giving back to her community through literacy and youth organizations like the Friends of the Kinderhook Library and Girl Scouts of Northeastern NY.