North Salem Central School District names new Superintendent of Schools

The North Salem Central School District Board of Education announced Wednesday night that it appointed Dr. Duncan Wilson to be the district’s next Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1. Wilson will replace outgoing superintendent Dr. Ken Freeston, who will retire at the end of the 2022-2023 school year after a 50-year career in education.

Dr. Wilson has extensive experience working in Westchester County public schools. He currently serves as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in the Ardsley Union Free School District, a role he has held since July 2019. Prior to working in Ardsley, Dr. Wilson was Director of Instruction and Human Resources in the Briarcliff School District.

"The Board of Education was impressed with the depth of experience that Dr. Wilson will bring to North Salem. His commitment to children and his enthusiasm for instructional leadership were immediately apparent," said board member Deb D'Agostino, who coordinated the search.

District leaders said that Wilson’s professional experience and beliefs regarding communication and building unity in the community made him the ‘unanimous’ choice.

In searching for Dr. Freeston’s replacement, the Board of Education engaged the services of executive search firm Hazard, Young, Attea, and Associates. The firm evaluated 38 applications and presented a slate to the Board of Education.

"Dr. Wilson's training and background will be a fantastic asset for our schools and community,” said board president Andrew Brown. “Looking forward, I am excited for the district.”

Dr. Wilson began his career in education at Horace Mann, a private school in New York City where he taught for nearly seven years. He then transitioned into public schools, beginning in the Byram Hills School District before moving on to Scarsdale, Briarcliff Manor and Ardsley. Beginning with the 2023-2024 school year, he’ll add Westchester County’s northernmost school district to his resume.

The Board of Education will vote to appoint Dr. Wilson at its February 2 meeting. At that meeting, the Board will also elevate Dr. Adam VanDerStuyf to the role of Deputy Superintendent. VanDerStuyf currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services.