We are excited to share the update below regarding the search for a new Sodus Central School District Superintendent.
It is anticipated that the Sodus Central School District Board of Education will appoint Michael Ferris as the district's next superintendent at a special meeting of the Board of Education on Monday, July 27th, 2026. Mr. Ferris will begin in his new role effective August 17th, 2026.
Following an extensive search that attracted a strong pool of highly qualified candidates, the Board selected Ferris to lead the district into its next chapter. He succeeds longtime Superintendent Nelson Kise, who is retiring after 10 years of dedicated service.
Across 25 years as an educator, Ferris has gained extensive experience as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, lead principal and athletic coach. He comes to Sodus from the Greece Central School District, where he spent the last seven years as Principal of Autumn Lane Elementary School. There, he established himself as a collaborative leader dedicated to student success and family engagement, successfully guiding key initiatives such as Community Schools, Leader in Me, and Professional Learning Communities.
Board President Jason Walters said Ferris distinguished himself throughout the interview process by demonstrating both leadership and a commitment to building strong relationships.
“Mike stood out because of his genuine ability to connect with people,” Walters said. “He is a thoughtful listener and a proven problem-solver who approaches every challenge with a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset. We are confident his commitment to transparency, trust and authentic relationship-building will serve our students, staff and community well.”
Ferris said he is honored to be selected and excited to lead the Sodus Central School District.
“From the moment I began learning about Sodus, I was struck by the pride people have in their schools and the genuine sense of community that exists here,” Ferris said. “I believe the best work happens when people come together with a shared purpose, and I'm committed to listening, building relationships and working alongside our staff, families and community members to create the best possible opportunities for every student."
During his first 100 days, Ferris plans to launch a comprehensive entry plan centered on listening, learning and relationship-building. He will meet with students, families, faculty, staff, and community members to better understand the district's strengths, opportunities, and shared priorities for the future. Throughout the fall, he also plans to host informal meet-and-greet events, attend community activities, and spend time in classrooms across all three schools to get to know the people who make Sodus a special place.
Ferris said one of his top priorities is building trust through honest communication, transparency, and collaboration. He believes the strongest school districts are built on authentic relationships and shared decision-making. He is committed to ensuring students, families, staff and community members have opportunities to be heard and engaged as the district moves forward.
Outside of his professional role, Ferris and his wife, Katie, have five children and two grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys camping, hiking, going to Buffalo Bills games and looks forward to becoming an active member of the Sodus community.
On behalf of the entire Board of Education, please join me in welcoming Michael Ferris to the Sodus community as well as thanking Nelson Kise for the many years of service he dedicated to our school community.
With Gratitude,
Jason Walters
Sodus CSD Board of Education President