GOSHEN – Orange-Ulster BOCES has a new chief operating officer. Deborah McBride Heppes, who was formerly deputy superintendent, has been promoted following the retirement of William Hecht at the end of December.
Heppes has worked in education in Orange County for the last 32 years including 21 at Orange-Ulster BOCES.
One of her goals is to ensure that all BOCES students know who founding Superintendent Amy Bull Crist was.
“Amy Bull Crist gave us the foundation for all that we do today,” said Heppes. “Amy’s vision was that every decision we make should be the best decision for students, and it is my intent to continue her vision.”
Heppes is supported by newly appointed Deputy Superintendent Kerri Stroka and Assistant Superintendent Mark Coleman, both longtime BOCES administrators, assistant superintendent and director of operations, respectively.
Orange-Ulster BOCES provides special education, vocational training and other shared services for 18 school districts in Orange and Ulster counties.
