SAUGERTIES —The Saugerties Central School District Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday night to immediately place Superintendent Daniel Erceg, Ed.D. on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation.
The 8-0 decision came during the board’s regular meeting on September 9 and follows a complaint involving a former district employee. The Ulster County District Attorney is continuing a criminal investigation following the arrest of Reid Kappler, a former custodian and girls’ wrestling coach, on multiple counts of rape of a student.
While specific details of the complaint about the former employee have not been made public, Board President Jeffrey Riozzi emphasized that the leave is intended to ensure a “fair, transparent, and impartial” review of the district’s handling of the matter.
“This decision was made to support the board’s commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and impartial internal investigation related to the district’s handling of and response to a serious complaint involving a former employee,” Riozzi said in a statement. “Once the board has reviewed the findings and recommendations, decisions about next steps can be made. Until then, it would be premature to speculate.”
Deputy Superintendent Gwendolyn Roraback, Ed.D., has been appointed acting superintendent to maintain leadership continuity during the transition. Riozzi said Roraback’s appointment would help sustain the district’s current educational efforts and ensure the ongoing safety and security of students.
“Please be assured that throughout this transition teaching and learning across our schools, as well as the safety and security of our students, remain the Board’s top priorities,” said Riozzi.
“Appointing an acting superintendent supports this commitment by providing steady leadership focused on sustaining the important work already underway within the district.”
Dr. Erceg was appointed superintendent in June 2023 and is in the third year of a five-year contract. His annual salary is $195,000.
Riozzi acknowledged that the situation may raise questions among community members but asked for patience while the investigation proceeds.
“We recognize this announcement will raise questions that we are not able to answer at present,” he said. “Please be assured, the board remains committed to transparency, however it is essential that we respect all privacy laws.”
Rizzio also discouraged speculation about the nature of the investigation or the board’s actions, noting that the goal is to reach a resolution that serves the interests of students, staff, and the broader school community.