The Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery (HFM) BOCES Board of Education has recently approved a series of leadership appointments focused on continuity and thoughtful planning as the organization prepares for upcoming transitions. All appointments are effective July 1, 2026.
Among the board actions is the appointment of Dr. Aaron Bochniak as Deputy Superintendent. Dr. Bochniak currently serves as the organization’s Assistant Superintendent for BOCES Operations and Component District Services, a role he has held since September 2021.
In his new position, Dr. Bochniak will continue to lead BOCES Operations, Component District Services, and CoSer development and oversight, while also supporting the District Superintendent with day-to-day operations and instructional integration.
Prior to joining HFM BOCES, Bochniak worked in a variety of leadership roles at Capital Region BOCES and Siena College. He most recently served the Schenectady City School District for six years, including time as Interim Superintendent of Schools and Interim Deputy Superintendent.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to step into this role at such an important time for our organization,” said Bochniak. “Having grown up in this region, it’s especially meaningful to serve the communities that helped shape me. As we prepare for leadership transitions, my focus will be on maintaining continuity, building on the strong foundation already in place, and advancing the mission-driven work that supports long-term success for our students, districts, and communities.”
Bochniak earned his Doctor of Education in educational leadership from Russell Sage College, holds his School District Leader certification from the College of Saint Rose, and earned his master’s degree, Certificate of Advanced Studies, and bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh.
As part of the leadership appointments, the board also approved the appointment of Dr. James Niedermeier as Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services. Dr. Niedermeier currently serves as Director of Early College Programs and Principal of the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (PTECH).
In his current role, Dr. Niedermeier oversees early college initiatives that allow high school students to earn college credit prior to graduation. He has worked closely with early college and regional high school programs for more than a decade and is recognized for his work in curriculum, instruction, and program development.
“I am very excited to continue serving our programs, districts, and students in this new capacity,” said Niedermeier. “My work will be guided by NY Inspires and the Regional Plan, and I’m excited about what lies ahead.”
Dr. Niedermeier brings more than two decades of experience, previously serving as Associate Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Accountability at Questar III BOCES, Superintendent of the Duanesburg Central School District, and Principal and Chief Academic Officer at Tech Valley High School. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership and administration from The Sage Colleges, a master’s degree from SUNY Brockport, and a bachelor’s degree from Elmira College.
The board also approved the appointment of Ms. Erika Haggerty as PTECH Principal. Haggerty currently serves as PTECH Administrative Coordinator and has been closely involved in the program’s daily operations and student support systems.
Prior to joining HFM PTECH, she served for nine years in the Oneida City School District, including six years as Director of Counseling Services. Her career also includes work as a school counselor in Pasco County, Florida. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from SUNY Cortland and her master’s degree in education from SUNY Oneonta.
“I am honored to step into the role of Principal at PTECH, having seen firsthand the incredible impact it has on students,” said Haggerty. “This program represents a powerful opportunity to connect education with real-world experiences, and I am committed to creating innovative pathways for student success beyond high school.”
According to HFM BOCES District Superintendent and CEO Dr. David Ziskin, the leadership appointments are part of a strategic effort to align organizational structures with programmatic needs and the goals outlined in HFM BOCES’ Mission, Core Beliefs, and 2025 Regional Plan.
“These leadership changes allow us to move forward thoughtfully, ensuring stability now while staying focused on our long-term goals and regional priorities,” said Ziskin.
The appointments come as HFM BOCES prepares for leadership changes. Earlier this year, the organization announced that Dr. Ziskin and Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Jay DeTraglia will retire at the end of the current academic year.
