Jeffrey R. Rabey, Ph.D.
Interim Superintendent Depew Union Free School District
5201 S. Transit Road
Depew, NY 14043

Phone: (716) 686-5105
Fax: (716) 686-5101

Secretary to the Superintendent: Jessica Neischel
Phone: (716) 686-5104

I would like to take this opportunity to re-connect with old friends and introduce myself to new ones. I am very excited to announce that I am the current Interim Superintendent for Depew Schools. I was previously the Superintendent in Depew for twelve years before retiring in June of 2022. Over the next year, as we prepare to embark on another exciting school year, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome back to school. This year holds immense promise, and together, we can create an environment filled with hope and stability for our students, staff, and families, as we re-focus, re-center and re-kindle our mission for our children.

The past few years have posed significant challenges, yet they have also provided us with valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of community. As we step into this new school year, let us focus on rekindling our relationships with one another—strengthening the bonds between our teachers, students and families. Building these connections will not only enrich our learning environment but also foster a sense of belonging and support for everyone.

We are also very excited to welcome our new High School Principal, Paul Renzoni, who will be replacing Jay Lupini, who is the newly appointed Superintendent of Schools in the Newfane Central School District. We wish Mr. Lupini all the best and thank him for his years of service. Mr. Renzoni is coming to us from the West Seneca Central School District, as the former East Senior High School Assistant Principal. Mr. Renzoni comes to the district with 25 years of experience. He has been utilizing a detailed entry plan to immerse himself into the Depew School community and getting prepared for the 2024-2025 school year.

It is important to note that this past summer, the Depew campus has been abuzz with construction activities. As part of the 2021 Capital Project, several projects were completed, including; the tennis, pickle ball and basketball courts, the High School pool and the Elementary School auditorium. Our contractors are working hard to also complete the air conditioning at the Elementary School and work at our bus garage. The next phase of the 2021 Capital Project will begin in the Spring of 2025, which will include air conditioning at the Middle and High School and the upgrading of a secure entrance at the High School. Work in 2025 also includes renovations to the High School technology wing and bathroom renovations at both the High School and Middle School.

For any Capital Project, the summer is primetime to get work done, but it seems as if we are always up against being ready for the start of the year when our children come back to us. If it wasn’t for our world-class Buildings and Grounds Department, we would not be at the stage that we are at right now! I can attest to the fact that just a few short weeks ago, our buildings did not look the way that they do today. The entire Depew Buildings and Grounds Department should be recognized for all their efforts.

As with any new school year, our dedicated teachers are eager to welcome your children back into their classrooms, ready to inspire and nurture their growth. Let us work together to create an atmosphere where every student feels valued, engaged and excited to learn. We encourage open communication and collaboration, as it is through our partnerships that we can best serve our students’ needs.

As we move forward, let us embrace the opportunities ahead, nurture our relationships, and ensure that our school community thrives. I am once again thrilled to be on this journey with you and look forward to an incredible year ahead.

Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat!

Jeffrey R. Rabey, Ph.D.
Interim Superintendent of Schools