Pictured is Daniel McNeill, a 2008 graduate of Cassadaga Valley Central School who is returning to the district as the Middle and High School House Principal. Submitted photo

SINCLAIRVILLE — Cassadaga Valley Central School has officially filled the role of House Principal for the Middle and High School following the leaving of current House Principal Ron Tonelli.

The role is set to be taken on by Daniel McNeill, a Cassadaga Valley alumni.

Superintendent Tammy Mangus said when it came to looking for a new House Principal the district was seeking a student-centered, educational leader with a strong foundation in middle and/or high school education, experience in creating inclusive, high-expectation environments, a passion for school pride, student engagement and community partnerships, a proven ability to manage discipline systems, school programs and logistics, strong communication and relationship-building skills and the required state School Building Leader certification. The candidate also needed to be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and be ready to collaborate under the guidance of the Executive PreK through 12 Principal.

McNeill graduated from Cassadaga Valley in 2008, beginning his teaching career at CVCS in 2013 as an eighth grade social studies teacher, and later gained extensive experience at Pine Valley and Falconer schools. His roles have included; club advisor and department chair, leader on various district committees and a Chautauqua County coordinator for the Summer Youth Work Program.

“His 12-year educational career showcases a strong commitment to at-risk youth, school culture, and student success,” Mangus said. “Mr. McNeill brings a deep personal connection to the school, a strong local network, and a proven track record of leadership in and outside the classroom. His return represents a strategic move to build continuity, tradition, and trust, all while executing the district’s cultural and academic initiatives. He embodies the district’s vision for a leader who can foster discipline, school pride, and inclusive student engagement — qualities central to the new administrative structure.”

McNeill officially begins as House Principal on July 1. Mangus said the district is most excited about his student-first mindset, his plans to launch new signature programs — a Freshman Transition program to support ninth graders and a Step Up to Success program to increase middle school involvement in activities — along with his potential to “ignite school pride and engagement as someone who once walked the same halls as today’s students.”

“This isn’t just a hire, it’s a homecoming,” Mangus said. “Mr. McNeill is a second-generation CVCS student and employee who understands the values and potential of the community. He’s committed to making every decision with student success at the forefront, and his leadership will prioritize a safe, respectful, and spirited environment for all students.”

The Cassadaga Valley Central School district’s new leadership model is built on sustainability, focus and alignment, Mangus said. With the plan to have the Executive PreK through 12th grade principal leading the academic vision and House Principals like McNeill focusing on school culture and daily operations, she added that students and staff will benefit from greater consistency, support and connection.

“Mr. McNeill’s return is symbolic of the district’s commitment to ‘growing our own’ leaders, and his presence ensures that Cassadaga Valley’s heart — the students — remain the center of every initiative,” Mangus said.