L:R Rev. Steve Lopez, Yonkers Public Schools Board President, Anibal Soler, Yonkers Newly Confirmed Superintendent of Schools, & Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano
On January 9, the Yonkers Board of Education confirmed Mr. Anibal Soler Jr. as the new Superintendent of the Yonkers Public Schools. Soler will begin his post on May 1, and was selected after a national search process.
Yonkers Board President Reverend Steve Lopez stated, “I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Anibal Soler Jr. as our new Superintendent. Our exhaustive national search has culminated in selecting a leader whose unparalleled experience in transforming urban school districts is a perfect match for our needs. Mr. Soler’s exemplary track record in boosting student achievement and his deep commitment to community engagement embody the ideal qualities we sought for this pivotal role. His innovative leadership and visionary approaches are poised to make a profound impact on our students and the Yonkers community as a whole. We are united in our excitement and look forward to the positive changes his tenure will bring.”
“We welcome Mr. Soler to Yonkers, along with his impressive and extensive experience as a school administrator and educator,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “His sensibility and passion for excellence reflect the values and policies we need in order to continue the progress made by the Yonkers Public Schools in recent years. I look forward to working with him and having an open and productive partnership as Yonkers cultivates its next generation of leaders.”
Dr. Luís Rodríguez, the Interim Superintendent, welcomed Mr. Soler, expressing confidence in his commitment to lead the district to new heights. “I warmly welcome Mr. Anibal Soler Jr. to the Yonkers Public Schools family. His vision for academic excellence, and his alignment with our district’s goals, are clearly evident. In the coming months, I am committed to working closely with Mr. Soler to ensure a seamless and smooth leadership transition. I hope he will find our collaboration instrumental in laying a strong foundation for his tenure.”
Mr. Soler shared his vision for the future, “It is a great honor and a privilege to be appointed as the Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools. I am deeply grateful to Mayor Spano, the entire Board of Trustees, and the Yonkers community for their unanimous vote of confidence in my leadership. This appointment is a testament to the strength and collaboration of our Trustees, reflecting our shared commitment to excellence in education. I am immensely excited about the future of Yonkers Public Schools. My primary focus will be on continuing to elevate our district, assuring that every student is provided with an exceptional education that equips them for success. Together, we will build on our strengths, embrace innovative approaches, and ensure that our district becomes a beacon of educational excellence.”
Dr. Luís Rodríguez added, “Having the privilege of currently serving as Interim Superintendent, I can promise Mr. Soler two things: One, you will never, ever be bored and two, I will faithfully support your setting a new direction for our District, that further elevates our staff and further equips our students to be effective leaders in a troubled and troubling world.” Your arrival heralds a promising new chapter for Yonkers Public Schools. ¡Superintendente Soler, Bienvenido a las Escuelas Públicas de la Cuidad de Yonkers!
Mr. Soler brings a wealth of experience to Yonkers Public Schools. As Superintendent of Schenectady City Schools since 2021, he managed a significant operating budget and launched numerous initiatives such as the Community Schools Initiative, Early College High School, and a district core-instructional program. Prior to this, he served as Superintendent of Batavia City Schools, where he significantly improved graduation rates and launched a district-wide Community Schools Initiative focused on equity and opportunity.
His role as Associate Superintendent in Buffalo Public Schools saw him lead major school improvement strategies, including the Strong Community Schools Initiative. As an Adjunct Professor at Canisius College and the University of Rochester, Mr. Soler has been instrumental in shaping future educational leaders.
His educational background includes an anticipated Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Manhattanville College, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from St. John Fisher College, and a Master of Science in Educational Technology from Nazareth College.
Mr. Soler will begin his appointment on May 1, 2024 expiring June 30, 2028.
