August 2, 2007--On July 10, the North Colonie Board of Education appointed Jerri Lynne Dedrick as principal of Southgate Elementary School. Dedrick replaces Kathleen Meany, who resigned in July to serve as superintendent/principal of schools at Menands Union Free School.

“It is an absolute honor and privilege to be selected to work in North Colonie,” said Dedrick. “The district readily demonstrates excellence and is dedicated to student achievement. I am proud to be working with faculty, staff and students who personify this goal.”

Dedrick joins the district with 14 years of education experience. She previously served the Cairo-Durham Central School District for a number of years—most recently as principal of Cairo Elementary School since 2002. Before that she was principal of Durham Elementary School for two years, Dean of Students for three years and a math teacher for six years. She was also an enrichment teacher for Pinewood Intermediate in the Mohonasen Central School District for one year. Additionally, Dedrick has been a consultant for the New York State Education Department since 1999 and a Title I coordinator for Cairo-Durham Schools since 2000.

Dedrick holds a master’s degree in educational administration from the State University of New York at Albany, as well as a second master’s degree in reading and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, with a concentration in English, from the College of Saint Rose.