Meet new Solvay Superintendent Jay Tinklepaugh
Mr. Tinklepaugh started his new role on August 15, replacing former Solvay Superintendent Lawrence Wright. Prior to this role, Mr. Tinklepaugh worked for the Solvay UFSD as the Principal of Solvay High School. He has worked in the education field for over 20 years. Read below to learn more about Mr. Tinklepaugh, his goals for the upcoming year, and what he enjoys about Solvay.
Where did you go to school?
I went to SUNY Oswego for my undergrad and Syracuse University for my graduate degree and certificate.
What are you most excited about bringing to the Solvay UFSD?
I’m excited about continuing the great work that has been going on in the district so far. We have a great staff here at Solvay and I’m looking forward to being able to work with everyone in all grade levels and roles, K-12. I’m also looking forward to expanding our relations with Syracuse University, Onondaga Community College, and SUNY ESF, while at the same time continuing to expand our opportunities and programs for K-12 students.
I also plan to take the opportunity to further showcase the different programs -- fine arts, career & technical education, language, and other special areas -- that we are currently utilizing within the district. We do so much with our language program and other areas, and I would like to work on better incorporating and highlighting these areas as well.
How long have you worked for the Solvay UFSD? How has your experience at Solvay High School helped prepare you for the upcoming work at Solvay UFSD?
I have worked for the Solvay UFSD for over 16 years, and there are a number of things that have helped prepare me for this new role as superintendent. I have worked with many of the Solvay staff members on bringing about some of our major initiatives over the years, including the OCC Advantage Program. I also am familiar with the Solvay staff, community, and culture. I have a real appreciation for the community in Solvay, with everything they do for our district. From the alumni to our community members, there is a true partnership between these key players and our district. The Dollars for Scholars and community events they put on are just some examples of how great the community is, and I hope to continue to grow this partnership.
What have you enjoyed so far about your time in the Solvay UFSD?
I love Solvay. The community is really what makes Solvay so special. The community is wonderful about treating the school as a focal point and putting their concentration on supporting the school. Their pride in the district shows.
The events that the Solvay community works to put on with our district only work to display the pride the community has for our school. From Relay for Life to Dollars for Scholars to full plate dinners – these events showcase the partnership between the district and the community.
Solvay travels too – I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been out of the area, wearing Solvay gear and someone approaches me to tell me they or a family member went to Solvay. All roads truly do come back to Solvay!
What are some of your goals for the upcoming school year?
While I’m interested in continuing the great work we’ve been doing, one of my goals is to provide the support and resources needed for our staff to do the important work they do in the classrooms. I would also like to recognize our staff, as they do so much for our district and our students with their accomplishments and contributions to our district.
Another goal is supporting staff to embrace change and be flexible, while at the same time taking risks and trying new things. With the changes in our educational environment and new technology being developed every day, I think it is important to know that things always change, and being flexible will help us with that.
Do you have any hobbies/ activities that you like to do outside of work?
In my free time, I enjoy music, sports (Go SU!), arts, skiing, and biking. I’m a big fan of the New York State Fair and make sure to go every year.
What is one of your favorite things about coming to work each day?
The students. At the end of the day we are here for them. The staff and Solvay community are wonderful to work with. Seeing a smiling kid walking down the hall – it can change your whole day.
