On June 16, South Colonie announced a leadership transition for the 2023-24 school year at Lisha Kill Middle School. Effective September 1, longstanding South Colonie administrator Jill Penn will step into a new role as Lisha Kill Middle School principal. Penn is set to officially be appointed by the Board of Education during their next regularly scheduled meeting.
Penn has been a highly respected educator in our district for close to three decades. She started her career at Colonie Central High School as an English teacher. Has been an assistant principal at both Lisha Kill and Sand Creek Middle Schools and has served as the districtwide ELA and reading supervisor. Most recently, Penn has been serving as the principal at Forest Park Elementary School.
“Jill has dedicated her career to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment at South Colonie,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “Her deep commitment to academic excellence, combined with her exceptional leadership skills, have earned her a well-deserved reputation as an exemplary educational leader. We know that she will provide a seamless transition at Lisha Kill and will personally ensure a continuation of the high-quality education and supportive community that our parents and students have come to expect.”
In addition to her vast experience both as an educator and administrator, Penn has been serving the Colonie community through her work as a Town of Colonie Councilwoman since 2020. She attended the State University of New York at Albany where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Education. Penn also received two advanced degrees from SUNY Albany, a Master of English Education and a School District Administrator certificate in Educational Administration.
“I am incredibly grateful for the wonderful memories and experiences I shared with the Forest Park school community,” said Penn. “It was a privilege to be the principal there for the last 11 years. As I transition to Lisha Kill and embrace this new role, I am excited to embark on a journey of growth and collaboration. Together with the Lisha Kill community, we will create a learning environment where students can flourish academically and personally. I am eager to build new connections, continue to foster a love for learning and make a positive impact on the lives of our students.”
Penn will be working closely with the administrative team and staff on the transition. She will be replacing Dr. Lindsay Tresansky who has accepted a new role outside of the district.