The Queensbury Union Free School District Board of Education intends to appoint Michael Brannigan to the position of Director of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and School Development.
The Director of SEL and School Development establishes protocols and procedures, collaboratively with administrators, faculty, and staff, to ensure the effective implementation of a systemic SEL program to best support the needs of all students, faculty and staff. 
“I am honored to continue the vitally important work in this position,” Brannigan said. “For me, it’s all about connections and having a presence and an impact on every building and the campus as a whole. It’s an exciting opportunity.”
Brannigan will supervise SEL projects such as district-wide trainings and SEL curriculum and programs, while maximizing organizational learning on related best practices. This position will collaborate with key SEL stakeholders such as students, faculty, staff, administrators, parents/guardians, and community partners and will oversee district-wide school development initiatives to promote equity, diversity and inclusivity.
“I’m looking forward to continuing the partnerships with our families and working with a phenomenal team across the district in our commitment to social and emotional learning,” Brannigan said.
Brannigan has worked at the district for nearly two decades, most previously serving as Queensbury Middle School principal since 2016. Brannigan served as the middle school assistant principal from 2012 until 2016 and spent nine years as a Queensbury Middle School counselor before that.
Brannigan currently holds a permanent certification at a NYS School Counselor and professional certificates as a NYS School Building Leader and NYS School District Leader. He was voted the 2007 New York State School Counselor of the Year by the NYS School Counselor Association.
“Mr. Brannigan has been in the Queensbury Union Free SD for a long time,” said Superintendent Kyle Gannon. “This allows for strong connections with students, staff and families. This position is grounded upon relationships and fostering connections.”
Brannigan will replace Raychel Marcil, who has accepted a position at the Cohoes City School District. In early spring, the district will appoint an interim principal while conducting a full search for a new middle school principal.
Administration will notify the Queensbury community when the transition date is solidified.