Our Mission is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and values to become productive participants in a changing world. A caring staff will encourage students to accept personal responsibility, undertake civic participation, prepare for future careers, and develop a life-long love of learning.

Thomas F. Brindley, Superintendent of Schools

Mr. Joseph Ballard

I earned my bachelor’s degree in physical education from SUNY Cortland and later pursued my administrative degree at Touro University. During my studies, I served as the Dean of Students for three years at Charlotte Valley. With a decade of experience in education, I have proudly been a principal in the Oneonta City School District for the past six years.

Outside of school, I love staying active and enjoying the outdoors. My family shares this passion, and we always try to stay active together. As a devoted sports fan, I especially enjoy following my favorite professional team, the New York Yankees.

At Greater Plains, the faculty and staff value the importance of developing relationships and connections with our students in order to provide them with the best possible learning experience. These bonds enable us to support our students through both the challenges and successes of the school year.

One of my goals each week is to be in every classroom. I think it is important to be in the classroom, interacting with the students, and developing meaningful relationships with our students. I also enjoy having lunch with our students. If your students come home and say that they had lunch with Mr. Ballard, that is a good thing. I invite students to join me for lunch, and they are welcome to bring a friend.

I am incredibly proud to be the principal of Greater Plains and look forward to all of the great things we will accomplish together.