SALAMANCA — The new principal at Seneca Intermediate School is no stranger to the school and its students.
Erin Barie was appointed Tuesday, Nov. 12 by the Salamanca Board of Education to fill the principal position previously held by Nikki Beaver, who was appointed the school district’s assistant superintendent in September.
Barie, most recently assistant principal at Seneca Intermediate, was hired by Salamanca schools in 2022.
“I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new principal of Seneca Intermediate,” Barie said. “With 22 years in education, I’m excited to bring my experience and passion to continue supporting our incredible school community.”
Barie started her career in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School District in North Carolina after graduating from SUNY Cortland with a degree in Elementary Education. She also earned a Master’s in Reading Education from UNC Charlotte and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University.
While at the Charlotte Mecklenburg district, Barie served as a classroom teacher, literacy facilitator, Dean of Students and Assistant Principal, “gaining invaluable experience along the way,” she said.
Four years ago, Barie returned home to New York and has most recently served as the assistant principal at Seneca Intermediate.
“It’s been a privilege to work alongside the dedicated staff, incredible students and supportive families at Seneca Intermediate, and I’m thrilled to step into the role of Principal to build on the great work already happening in our school,” she said.
Barie said her goal is to meet each student where they are, supporting their social, emotional and academic well-being. As she transitions into this new role, Barie said she’s looking forward to strengthening the connections she has already made with the entire school community and working collaboratively to make a lasting, positive impact.
“Thank you for your trust and ongoing support,” she added. “I’m excited for all that we will accomplish together.”
Beaver said Barie has already made a big impact on the students, families and staff of Seneca in the three years she’s been there as assistant principal and serving a brief stint as interim principal, bringing her vision and dedication to everything she does.
“Erin is a strong, instructional leader who keeps student growth at the heart of her work, her passion for children shines through in every interaction, from supporting students’ unique needs to encouraging and uplifting staff and families,” Beaver said.
Barie’s leadership style combines kindness, collaboration and a creative approach to problem-solving, Beaver said, qualities that make her not only an exceptional principal but an incredible teammate in achieving the district’s goals.
“Congratulations, Erin, on this well-deserved position, and we cannot wait to see all the great things you accomplish in this new chapter,” she added. “Thank you for all that you do.”
Originally from Pavilion, Barie resides in Allegany with her husband, Rich, and their two children, Cooper and Lennon.
