When one thinks of a superintendent’s juggling act, it’s easy to envision their many tasks and responsibilities as keeping the proverbial “balls in the air,” but New Paltz School Superintendent Steve Gratto takes it more literally. More than 400 people came through last week’s Spring Fling at Lenape Elementary to enjoy games, crafts, ice cream and entertainment. The event was designed to facilitate connection and conversation between Superintendent Gratto and Deputy Superintendent Linda Oehler-Marx and the school community. “Oohs” and “Ahhs” could be heard amidst wild applause as Superintendent Gratto performed an interactive comedy with juggling, balancing, tightrope walking, and a unicycle act. Parents, guardians, students, and community members were able to dialogue with the administrators one on one, asking questions ranging from the budget to curriculum to daily operations. The one question burning in many an attendee’s mind, however, was, “How does he DO that?!” 

Many thanks to the Duzine/Lenape PTA for organizing and hosting this incredibly fun event!