New Green Chimneys Executive Director Officially Takes the Reins

Autumn and Nature-Based Activities Inspire Learning at Boni-Bel Farm

October 19, 2020

April 3, 2017

It was a joyous and meaningful day for the entire Green Chimneys community as longtime agency head Joe Whalen officially passed the reins to Dr. Edward Placke. The ceremonial moment took place atop a wagon drawn by Belgian draft horses Bill & Bob of Rock Hill Farm in Pawling, NY and was attended by Green Chimneys staff and students. Placke was named in early 2016 and has now assumed leadership as the new Executive Director of the 70-year-old nonprofit.

Placke’s expertise spans 35 years and includes special education and vocational programming from the intimate classroom environment to the highest levels of administration. He most recently served as Superintendent of Schools for Greenburgh North Castle Union Free School District, comprised of four alternative junior/high schools for students in grades 7-12 who have struggled in their home school districts, BOCES or private schools.

In previous comments, Whalen proudly stated that Placke is the right person to lead Green Chimneys into the next phase of growth: “The breadth and depth of his experience in educational programming that helps students prepare for life beyond school will be invaluable to our families who are counting on us to provide a strong foundation for their kids’ futures.”

Brook Lyn the Sheep

Found abandoned in a box with her brother in Brooklyn, NY, this sheep was rescued as a newborn. After she was stabilized by a wildlife rehabilitator, she was driven up to Green Chimneys Farm where the children hand fed her with bottles of warm milk. The responsibility of becoming a caretaker for a little animal like Brook Lyn gives students a chance to recognize their own ability to make a contribution. Many of the children have been “taken care” of all of their lives by caring parents, concerned teachers and mental health staff, but stepping up and holding a bottle for this little orphan lamb transforms them from service receivers to service providers.