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The Saugerties Central School District is searching for a new superintendent following the resignation of Daniel Erceg. Announced on Wednesday (December 17), Erceg's resignation comes amid ongoing investigations into the district's handling of allegations against a former wrestling coach. The coach, Reid Kappler, was indicted in July on 18 counts of felony rape, accused of sexually assaulting two students while working as a custodian and coach from 2023 to 2024.
Erceg, who had been on paid leave since September, did not cite the investigations in his resignation letter but mentioned that "issues have taken a toll." The Times Union reported that the district's Board of Education had placed him on leave to ensure a fair investigation. Board President Jeffrey Riozzi stated that the decision to place Erceg on leave was part of a commitment to a transparent internal investigation.
The Daily Freeman noted that Erceg's resignation was effective as of December 9, following a Board of Education meeting. The board and Erceg agreed that the separation was the best path forward for the district and community, though it did not imply any wrongdoing by either party.
The investigation also involves Sydney Mills, a part-time police officer charged with sexual misconduct with a student. Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji has accused the district of maintaining a "cover-up culture" over decades, citing numerous reports of abuse that were allegedly ignored by school officials.
Erceg, a Saugerties High School alumnus, had served as superintendent since July 2023. He previously held administrative roles in districts in Honolulu, Arlington, and Kingston before returning to Saugerties in 2018.