Something special happened at Pine Bush High School Thursday afternoon. Army Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Nelson Woods, who has been instrumental in the success of the Pine Bush High School Leadership and Law Summer Academy for several years, was promoted to sergeant first class.

Woods chose to have the promotion ceremony held at Pine Bush High School because of his connection to the kids who attend the academy and the people who run it. Much to his surprise, many of his students from the summer academy attended the ceremony, as well as PBHS Principal Aaron Hopmayer and Assistant Principal Denise Tzouganatos. Interim Superintendent of School Amy Brockner Assistant Superintendent for Business Joe Lenz, Interim Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Terrilyn Cohn, Executive Director for Human Resources Angela Wise-Landman and board of education member Dori Johnson also represented the district at the ceremony.

 

The sergeant’s colleagues from the Army saw his talent from the start. They said he’s been operating on a sergeant first class level for a long time. “This meritorious promotion today is way, way, way, way beyond overdue.”

“This man is a leader,” said Principal Hopmayer. “He is the definition of a leader. He leads from the front. I’m proud of his service to the arm and our district. This shows you how important you are to us. Our whole leadership team and members of the Town of Crawford Police are here for you. Congratulations on a job well done.”

 

“I love this school,” said Sgt. Woods. “I love coming here, interacting with your students. I look forward to the Leadership and Law Academy all year. The first day I’m super pumped and at graduation I’m kind of sad. I’ll remember this forever.”

 

Congratulations from our entire district. We thank you for your service to our country and to our students.