Padalino to discuss schools as assets to regional economic development

Oct. 21, 2011

Watervliet Superintendent Dr. Paul J. Padalino Monday will discuss the role K-12 schools can play in the area’s economic future with the co-chair of a regional development panel created by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Dr. Padalino, together with a small group of other local education leaders, will meet with Michael Castellano, president of SEFCU, who serves as co-chair of the governor's Capital Region Economic Development Council. The group is one of 10 regional councils the governor created in July to guide economic development strategies in regions throughout the state. Each council is expected to submit a regional economic development plan to the governor’s office next month. Castellano co-chairs the panel with RPI President Shirley Ann Jackson.

The educational leaders will discuss the major asset the K-12 system is to the region and what opportunities and barriers local schools face.

“Currently no one from K-12 public schools is involved in the Capital Region Economic Development Council. Our schools are a tremendous asset to the region and it is important for us to be heard. I appreciate the opportunity to meet with Mr. Castellano,” Dr. Padalino said.

To learn more about the regional development councils visit the governor’s NYWorks website.