Byron-Bergen Central School District is proud to announce that Betsy Brown is the new Director of Instructional Services and Ashley John Grillo is the Jr./Sr. High School Principal. Brown was most recently the Assistant Jr./Sr. High School Principal and was previously the Elementary School Assistant Principal. Grillo was Principal of Batavia Middle School. Both appointments took effect July 1, 2021.
Brown came to Byron-Bergen from Avon Central Schools, where she supported students and staff as a literacy coach for three years. Prior to that, she taught in 3rd, 4th, and kindergarten classrooms. Brown holds a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education and a Master of Education degree in literacy, earned at the State University of NY at Geneseo. Her administrative coursework was completed at the University of Rochester.
“It was clear throughout the process that Betsy Brown was the best fit for this position,” said incoming Byron-Bergen Superintendent Pat McGee. “I am excited for her and am confident that she will do a great job in this role.”
In her new position, Brown will collaborate with faculty, staff, and administrators to improve the quality of student education by overseeing curriculum development, implementation, and alignment with New York State standards.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity to grow as a district leader at Byron-Bergen,” said Brown. “Having been the Assistant Principal in both the Elementary and Jr./Sr. High, I am looking forward to using that experience to continue work on curriculum development, instructional coaching, and planning professional development. I can't wait to spend time in both buildings supporting teachers, students, and staff.”
Grillo began his teaching career in 2003 at Holley Central Schools as a 7-12 Science Teacher. In 2010, he was appointed as a Teacher on Special Assignment at Holley Jr./Sr. High School and then in 2012 as an Assistant Principal at Holley Elementary School. In 2016, he became the Principal at Batavia Middle School where he served for five years.
“We are excited to have Ashley Grillo lead the Jr./Sr. High School,” said McGee. “He brings a wealth of knowledge that will be helpful to continue moving the Jr./Sr. High School in a positive direction. His experiences as a teacher and an administrator will be valuable to Byron-Bergen.”
As Jr./Sr. High School Principal, Grillo’s key responsibility will be to provide opportunities for students to successfully graduate. He will also partner with essential stakeholders to see that the school continues to provide quality programs for students as they advance from 6th to 12th grade.
“I am beyond thrilled to be part of the Byron-Bergen school community,” said Grillo. “I am excited to be back in a small school setting and am looking forward to connecting with students, families, and staff.”