Penfield Central School District has selected Jeff Alger as its new Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. The Board of Education approved his appointment during its Tuesday, Aug. 25 meeting, effective immediately.

Alger brings more than 25 years of experience in education, including extensive work in physical education, health education, athletics, and educational leadership to the role. He has served as both a physical education teacher and a Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics, with a career focused on strengthening programs, supporting staff, and expanding opportunities for students.

Alger earned his undergraduate degree in physical education from SUNY Cortland, with concentrations in adapted physical education and coaching. He continued his graduate studies at Nazareth University and later returned to SUNY Cortland to complete a certificate of advanced study in educational administration. He holds New York State School Building Leader and School District Leader certifications as well as a Level 3 coaching certification through the National Federation of State High School Associations. He is also a Certified Athletic Administrator through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA), and is working toward earning the Certified Master Athletic Administrator designation, the highest level of certification offered by the NIAAA. He expects to complete the required project and earn the designation by summer 2027.

Throughout his administrative career, Alger has helped strengthen physical education, health education, and athletic programs while overseeing facility and program improvement initiatives. Under his educational athletic leadership, programs in the districts he has served have achieved success at the league, sectional, and state levels.

At the state level, Alger has been actively involved with NYS AHPERD, first serving as a Zone President and later as a member of its Board of Directors. His work included professional advocacy, professional development, and supporting efforts related to the development and implementation of New York State learning standards. He was also recognized by NYS AHPERD’s Central Western Zone as a recipient of its Amazing Person Award.

Alger has also served on several committees associated with the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, including work connected with Section II and Section VI, collaborating with athletic administrators and educational leaders on issues affecting interscholastic athletics.

In his first year at Penfield, Alger will focus on building relationships with administrators, students, families, and community partners, listening to and learning from the voices that work together to contribute to and support student success.

“Penfield is a district with a rich tradition of academic excellence and one of the premier athletic programs in New York State,” he said. “I look forward to working with students, staff, families, administrators, coaches, community members, and other stakeholders to build upon Penfield’s proud history.”