Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary

Elementary School Named
After Retired Superintendent Ronald L. Sodoma

(Pictured: Superintendent Ada Grabowski and Board of Education President Michael Bonafede unveil the plaque and portrait while past superintendent Ronald Sodoma looks on. The portrait is located in the center of the new foyer in the Sodoma Elementary School)

Students, staff, Rotarians and community members gathered together on September 24th in the new elementary school foyer to witness the official dedication ceremony of the Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary School. The Board of Education passed a resolution on November 4, 2002 which renamed the building. Mr. Sodoma and his family attended the ceremony and listened on as members of the Board of Education, staff, students and Rotary club talked about the many contributions he made to the district and community during his 35 years at ACS.

Mr. Sodoma began his career in 1967 as a fifth grade teacher at Waterport School. He held several administrative positions including Superintendent of the Albion Central School District from 1984 - 2002. During his tenure in the district he worked diligently to ensure that students had well maintained facilities in which to learn and grow. He oversaw the expansion and renovation of the elementary and middle schools.

Michael Bonafede, Board President, addressed the audience and stated, "Mr. Sodoma conceived, implemented and sustained programs characterized by effective use of technology, character education, solid academics, athletic achievement, creativity in arts, well-trained staff with equal opportunity and access for all students. His vision led the district to exceed expectations of districts similar in size and financial resources, inspiring the students and staff to achieve local, state, and national recognition for accomplishments without imposing a financial burden on the community that the district serves."

The dedication program also featured Mr. Sodoma's contributions to the community through his years of service in the Albion Rotary Club. He joined the club in 1984 and was president during 1989-1990. He received the Paul Harris fellow award twice for distinguished service to his community. Carl I. Bergerson, a fellow Rotarian and past superintendent once wrote a letter to Mr. Sodoma stating "I have always felt we make a greater contribution to society if we remain in one place instead of moving from pillar to post for an increase in salary." This was advice Mr. Sodoma adhered to by serving the district for 35 years.

Fifth graders from the future class of 2011 presented Mr. Sodoma with a booklet they created. It is a compilation of letters and stories each student wrote to him based on why we name buildings after people. Students pointed out the many contributions Mr. Sodoma made to Albion during his tenure in the district. Sharon Husung, Jackie Madejski and Jonathan Cruz read their letters.

Some of the things the students highlighted were the PACE program, busing for all students, the new elementary school gymnasium and large library, kindergarten graduation and the computer technology. Kirk Narburgh, a partner with King & King Architects, presented a photo to Mr. Sodoma highlighting building expansion and renovation projects completed while he was superintendent. Among projects noted in the photograph are the middle school pool and auditorium renovation, and the music and band room additions. Kirk is an AHS alumnus and worked with Mr. Sodoma and the district on several building projects since the mid 90's. During the ceremony Kirk highlighted the projects and the benefits to the district through Mr. Sodoma's leadership.

Mr. Sodoma addressed the attendees in the crowded foyer after his portrait and bronze plaque was unveiled. He told the attendees that his goal was to ensure that all children in the Albion School District received a quality education. "Students all deserved an equal and the best learning experience we could provide." He thanked the quality teachers, administrators, bus drivers, food service employees, support staff, secretaries and maintenance employees who helped make children at ACS come first. He concluded by telling the audience that it has been a privilege and honor to be part of the school district and community.

(Pictured: Mr. Sodoma accepts a book presented by a fifth grade student. The book is a compilation of letters and stories that fifth graders wrote to Mr. Sodoma. The letters were based on why we name buildings after people. Students pointed out the many contributions Mr. Sodoma made to Albion during his tenure in the district.)

(Pictured: Kirk Narburgh an architect and partner with King & King Architects presents a photo to Mr. Sodoma highlighting his many building expansion and renovation projects. Among projects noted in the photograph are the middle school pool and auditorium renovation, music and band room additions. Kirk is an AHS alum and worked with Mr. Sodoma on several building projects since the mid 90's. During the ceremony Kirk highlighted the projects and the benefits to the district through Mr. Sodoma's leadership.)