A longtime North Rose-Wolcott teacher started in a new role at NRW this summer, heading up maintenance and operations for the district.

Benjamin Stopka became the district’s Interim Director of Maintenance and Operations in July, taking on a position that allows him to combine his experience in education – including eight years at NRW – with skills he developed as a tradesman early in his career.

Members of the NRW community may know Stopka from his time as a reading teacher and literacy interventionist. At NRW, he has also served as an MTSS coach, member of the North Rose-Wolcott Middle School leadership team, and part of the district leadership council. Stopka’s recent transition to administration coincides with his pursuit of a certification in school-based and district leadership from SUNY Oswego.

Leading NRW’s facilities department combines Stopka’s interest in administration with his past experience as a union carpenter. He says he brings a student-focused perspective to the job “by providing a positive learning environment and providing opportunities for learning real-world skills.” One such opportunity is a partnership with the new GeoTech program at North Rose-Wolcott High School, which introduces students to skilled trades and connects them with a pathway for after graduation.