New Green Chimneys Executive Director Officially Takes the Reins

Finding Focus and Living in the Present

November 7, 2019

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.”

Tom & Jerry

Tom and Jerry came to Green Chimneys after they were seized from their previous home due to neglectful conditions. Thankfully, the animal control officer thought of Green Chimneys and brought them here the same morning. They are an Alpine breed of goat, originating in the French Alps, so they are extremely mobile and great jumpers! Alpine goats are also traditionally heavy milkers, and the milk can be made into butter, cheese, soap, ice cream or any other dairy product normally made from cow\’s milk.