The Utica City School District Board of Education announced the temporary appointment of Brian Nolan as Acting Superintendent of Schools during a special meeting on October 18, 2022. Nolan will assume the role of Acting Superintendent of Schools immediately, as Superintendent of Schools Bruce Karam is on leave.
Nolan has extensive experience in urban school education and leadership roles, spending the majority of his career serving the Syracuse City School District -- one of the largest urban, public school districts in New York State. Prior to his retirement in 2016, Nolan served as an Executive Director of High Schools, Career & Technical Education (CTE) Programs and Adult Education. During his tenure, Nolan served in a variety of positions, including as a Secondary Principal and Special Education teacher. Following his retirement, Nolan served as principal of Bishop Grimes Jr./Sr. High School and is currently a per-diem, independent monitor at a “turnaround” school in the city of Syracuse for the Office of Innovation and School Reform.
Nolan holds a Master of Science degree in K-12 Special Education from Syracuse University, as well as a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Administration with Distinction from the State University of New York Oswego. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in K-12 Special Education from Syracuse University and a New York State District Administrator Certificate, New York State Administrator and Supervisor Certificate, and New York State Permanent Teaching Certificate (K-12 Special Education).
“I am grateful the Board of Education has entrusted me to serve and support the children, families and employees of the Utica City School District during this period,” said Nolan. “My leadership approach is leading by convening, creating connections, being available to all stakeholders, ensuring the District continues to run smoothly and is in responsible hands.”