The Mt. Markham Central School District is pleased to announce the hiring of Ms. Cait Dates as its new High School Principal, effective August 3. “We are incredibly proud to welcome Ms. Dates to Mt. Markham Central School District. Her impressive resume demonstrates a lifelong commitment to professional learning and personal growth. Those qualities made her the ideal candidate, and we are confident that she will be an exceptional role model for our students, faculty, and the entire school community,” shares Superintendent Crisman.

Ms. Dates brings a wealth of experience, a strong commitment to student success, and a collaborative leadership style that will serve the students, staff, and families of Mount Markham well. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a dedication to fostering a positive school culture, supporting high-quality instruction, and ensuring that all students have the opportunities necessary to succeed. 

Currently, Ms. Dates serves as Dean of Students for Grades 7-12 at Cooperstown Junior/Senior High School. Prior to joining Cooperstown, she worked as a Professional Learning Specialist as ONC BOCES, supporting educators in curriculum implementation, instructional practices, and data-informed decision-making. She also has experience teaching at the elementary, middle, and high school levels and holds certifications in Childhood Education, Students with Disabilities, Mathematics, and Literacy. Her educational background includes an undergraduate degree from Keuka College and a master’s degree from SUNY Geneseo. 

Ms. Dates is excited to join the Mount Markham community as the High School Principal and sends warm regards to all, stating, “I am honored to serve as the High School Principal at Mount Markham. I look forward to partnering with students, staff, families, and the community to build upon the strong foundation already in place and to continue creating meaningful opportunities for all students."