Brian Nolan has 38 years of experience in the education field in both teaching and leadership roles, mostly in the Syracuse City School District. Now he’s coming out of what he calls his “partial retirement” and heading east.

Nolan is overseeing the Utica City School District after current superintendent Bruce Karam was put on paid leave.

“I agreed to be an acting superintendent for three to four weeks," Nolan said.

Nolan said he was contacted last week about becoming Utica’s acting superintendent. He said he doesn’t know why Karam is on leave, but is looking forward to helping Utica schools during this time.

“I’ve been in urban education my whole career, and I just think it’s very important that we provide high quality schools with highly effective teachers for students and families that live in urban settings," Nolan said.

His most recent role may also help him as he leads Utica.

“I was working as an independent monitor at a turnaround school, at Blodgett School in Syracuse, so I kind of understand the systems that need to be in place,” said Nolan.

Nolan said Utica has given him a warm welcome. He wants parents of students to know there is strong leadership at the school, along with quality teaching and learning, and will be built upon.

Nolan added he would be available to be acting superintendent longer if he is asked.

Spectrum News 1 contacted the NYS Department of Education about what Nolan's new role means for Blodgett Middle School. Department officials said they are in contact with the Syracuse City School District "to ensure the district and STEAM @ Blodgett continue to receive consistent attention and supports from the Department to ensure continuing progress."

They said this includes on-site support as needed. They also said Nolan's role and payment for his work as an independent monitor will be paused as he serves as an interim superintendent.