Schenectady City School District Names Dr. Robert Flanders
Assistant Director of Fine Arts
The Schenectady City School District is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Robert Flanders as the new Assistant Director of Fine Arts. The Board of Education officially approved his appointment on October 8, 2025, and Dr. Flanders will assume his new administrative role immediately.
Dr. Flanders brings a deep understanding of district operations and an extensive background in both school administration and the arts to this position.
A dedicated member of the Schenectady City School District since 1998, Dr. Flanders has spent the past 27 years in various key roles. For the last 13 years, he has served as the successful Principal of Yates Elementary School. Prior to that, he was the Principal of Hamilton Elementary School from 2002 to 2012. He also previously held a dean position for the Sayles School of Fine Arts.
“Dr. Flanders is a long-standing, respected leader in our district, and his dedication to both education and the arts is exceptional," said Superintendent Dr. Carlos M. Cotto, Jr. “We are confident his experience as an elementary school leader and his passion for the arts will be invaluable in elevating the Fine Arts program for all Schenectady students.”
Dr. Flanders's commitment to education extends beyond the district. He is an active member of professional organizations, including the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and the New York State Board of Regents, Principal Collaborative. He is also a respected academic, having authored several publications and served as an invited workshop lecturer.
Dr. Flanders is an alumnus of the Fredonia School of Music. He holds a Master of Science in Education Administration from the State University of New York at Albany and an Education Doctorate (Ed.D.) from the University of Phoenix.
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