The South Colonie Board of Education has appointed Rachel L. Fazioli as interim principal of Sand Creek Middle School, effective Oct. 1.

Fazioli has been a member of the Sand Creek community since 2022 and currently serves as the school’s associate principal. In that role, she has worked closely with students, families and staff while providing leadership for the school’s seventh- and eighth-grade programs.

“Rachel has already demonstrated that she knows how to lead Sand Creek,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “She knows our students and staff, she understands the needs of the building, and she has earned the trust of the school community. This is a natural next step for Rachel, and I’m confident she will do a great job.”

As associate principal, Fazioli has been involved in nearly every aspect of the school’s day-to-day operations, including instructional leadership, staff supervision, student support, attendance, behavior, building safety and professional development. She has also led efforts focused on school culture, including the implementation of classroom circles to strengthen student voice and restorative practices.

Fazioli began her career in South Colonie as a RISE teacher at Sand Creek, where she developed individualized academic and behavioral programming for middle school students. Before joining the district, she worked as a teacher and reading specialist, teaching social studies and English language arts and supporting literacy instruction.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to continue serving the Sand Creek community in this new role,” Fazioli said. “I know how much our students, staff and families care about this school, and I’m looking forward to building on the work we’ve already started. My goal is to provide consistency for our students and staff while continuing to move Sand Creek forward.”

Fazioli holds a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Mercy University, an Ed.M. in Learning and Instruction from the University at Buffalo and a bachelor’s degree in History from Le Moyne College. She holds New York State certifications as a School Building Leader and School District Leader, as well as professional certifications in literacy and social studies.

Fazioli will succeed Michael Marohn, who will begin serving as the district’s Director of Student Support Services on Oct. 1.

“Rachel has been an important part of Sand Creek’s leadership for the past three years, and I’m pleased to see her take on this opportunity,” Perry said. “She is ready for this responsibility, and I know she will bring the same care and commitment to the principal’s role that she has shown throughout her time here at Colonie.”