The director of security for Newburgh schools, who left his job less than a year ago as the city’s police chief for the role, has now resigned amid controversy over recent changes in district leadership, including the suspension of Superintendent Jackielyn Manning-Campbell.
Anthony Geraci tells News 12 that his personal values no longer align with the “abrupt change” in the district’s leadership.
"Throughout my time in this role, I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside many dedicated leaders who always put the needs and safety of our students and staff first,” says Geraci. “At this time, the abrupt change in leadership, the direction of the majority of the BOE, and the politics associated with it, are overshadowing the needs of the students and are no longer aligned with my personal values.”
Geraci’s resignation was discussed during a district board meeting Tuesday night and takes effect March 1.
Geraci, who’s from the Capitol region of New York, began working for the school district last May shortly after resigning from the City of Newburgh Police Department.
News 12 interviewed him at that time, when the findings of a past independent probe into several workplace allegations by three female employees were subsequently leaked.
The investigation found the allegations were “not supported" and Geraci, at the time, called the release of the findings "retaliatory" in an effort to "tarnish" his character.
During his time with Newburgh schools, Geraci says he successfully improved several aspects of safety and security including the district’s safety plan, community engagement and investigative support services.
News 12 reached out to the district for comment and additional information as to who will fill the newly vacant role, but it declined to comment.
Geraci says he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family and pursuing professional interests outside of the Hudson Valley.