The Afton Board of Education is pleased to announce the final two candidates in the search for a new Superintendent. The community is welcome to attend the community forum that will take place on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at the Afton School Auditorium. During the forum, the community is invited to observe, however there will be no direct communication between the candidate and the audience.
Mr. Andy Buchsbaum
With over two decades in education, Mr. Andy Buchsbaum brings extensive leadership experience to the role of Superintendent of Schools. His philosophy centers on fostering innovation, collaboration, and strong personal and community relationships. Most recently, Mr. Buchsbaum served as Superintendent of the Marathon Central School District, where he led the approval of a three-year strategic plan, ensuring a clear vision for academic and operational success; enhanced Professional Learning Communities, by fostering collaboration and results-oriented instruction; and his vision developed and launched a new Career Center to expand student opportunities and pathways. He also successfully led and secured approval for a $12 million capital project referendum and championed district-wide wellness initiatives to support student and staff well-being.
Prior to Marathon, he spent 10 years in district leadership at the Owego Apalachin Central School District, holding roles such as Director of Accountability, Health Services, and Enrichment; and Director of Athletics, Health, Physical Education, and School Improvement. He worked closely with curriculum, budgeting, human resources, operations, health and safety, and community partnerships, ensuring a well-rounded educational environment.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Buchsbaum was a Physical Education teacher and coach in Connecticut, later serving as Health and Physical Education Coordinator and Athletic Coordinator. He also founded a business called ‘Ultimate Play’, which offered youth enrichment opportunities, providing before and after school programs and summer camps. Further impacting youth development, he directed New York Giants youth football camps through Pro Sports Experience in Westchester and Fairfield counties.
Buchsbaum holds a bachelor’s degree from Sacred Heart University and two master’s degrees from Hofstra University and Canisius College. He is certified as both a district and school building leader and completed the New York State Superintendent Development Program through SUNY Oswego.
Originally from Bridgeport, CT, Buchsbaum now resides in Owego, NY, with his wife, Kelly, and their three sons, Jack, Sam, and Max.
Mrs. Annette Hammond
Annette Hammond has over 33 years of experience in education, with a steadfast commitment to fostering student success and strengthening school communities. Raised in the picturesque Hudson Valley near Poughkeepsie, NY, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from Manhattan College and began her career in the Dover Union Free School District as a teacher and later a high school administrator. She pursued advanced studies at SUNY New Paltz, earning a master’s in special education and a Certificate of Advanced Study in School District Administration.
In 2001, Mrs. Hammond and her husband relocated to Gilbertsville, NY, where they raised their three daughters while continuing their careers in education. She held leadership roles at Sidney High School, serving as Assistant Principal and Principal, with a brief tenure as Masonville Elementary Principal, before transitioning to the Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School District. There, she advanced through key leadership positions, including Middle/High School Principal, PreK-12 Principal, and CSE Director, before being appointed Superintendent, a role she has held for the past 10 years.
A dedicated leader and advocate for student achievement, Mrs. Hammond values strong connections within small districts and prioritizes meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families. She is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and enriching educational environment that empowers all learners to reach their full potential.
As she prepares to retire from Gilbertsville-Mount Upton CSD in July, Mrs. Hammond looks forward to new opportunities where she can continue making a meaningful impact in education.
Beyond her professional work, Mrs. Hammond enjoys spending time with family, cooking, gardening, and beekeeping.