Crestwood School Board Welcomes Patrick Patte III as New Member

The Crestwood Board of Education has appointed Patrick Patte III as its newest member, marking the sixth addition to the board in a span of just three months. This decision was made during a special meeting held on December 4, 2023, where the vote was unanimous among the remaining eight board members.

Lauren McCurdy, President of the Crestwood school board, expressed confidence in Patte’s capabilities, highlighting his extensive background in education. Patte has served as the Assistant Superintendent at the Hazleton Area School District since 2017 and has prior experience as the principal of Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre.

Patte steps into the role vacated by Craig Champi, who resigned earlier this month after being elected in 2023. Following the resignation, the Crestwood School District invited candidates to submit letters of interest by December 22, with a total of four applicants responding by the deadline. The other candidates included Ryan Carter, Justin Mirilovich, and Stephen Modrovsky.

Board member Shawn Gallagher, who was appointed in October to fill a previous vacancy, noted that he engaged with all candidates before the vote. Gallagher remarked on Patte’s impressive qualifications and understanding of school district operations, stating, “I just think his work history, his qualifications in the educational field, are really exactly what we need.”

Board member Tom Stavitzski echoed Gallagher’s sentiments, praising Patte’s diverse experience in education. Notably, Patte is also the son of Patrick Patte Jr., a well-known restaurateur who founded Patte’s Sports Bar and Restaurant in Wilkes-Barre in 1964. Following his father’s passing on November 3, 2023, Patte III expressed gratitude for his father’s dedication and hard work.

Patte’s appointment signifies a significant shift within the Crestwood school board, which has seen an influx of new members recently. Since September, six of the nine board positions have turned over, including the appointments of new members Jill McGovern-Koptcho, Mike Namey, Nanci Romanyshyn, and Stavitzski. This wave of change also followed the defeat of former board President John Macri and member Richard Nardone in the May primary elections, alongside the decision of Barry Boone and Marla Campbell not to seek reelection.

As the Crestwood Board of Education continues to evolve, the addition of Patrick Patte III is expected to bring valuable insights and leadership to the district. His extensive educational experience positions him as a noteworthy asset amid a time of significant transition for the board.