The City School District of Albany has announced it will extend the contract of its interim Superintendent while it continues to search for a permanent replacement. Our Erin Connolly has more.

ALBANY, N.Y. --School board leaders said Tuesday afternoon they found candidates with great resumes. But they said with the challenges the district faces, they truly needed leadership. Their choice is current interim Superintendent Dr. Ray Colucciello.

A ribbon cutting marked a great afternoon as students, parents and staff celebrated the rededication of the Thomas O'Brien Academy of Science and Technology. The scene also served as the setting for a big announcement for the entire Albany City School District.

Dan Egan, the Board of Education President, said, "It's with great enthusiasm that I announce Dr. Colucciello has agreed to continue on as our superintendent through the 2011 school year."

There was a standing ovation for Dr. Ray Colucciello, the district's interim superintendent since last July.

Colucciello said, "I'm kind of the person you get while you're waiting for the real person, but I'm looking forward to it."

All kidding aside, Dr. Colucciello has his work cut out for him. The district is facing a $20 million budget gap and may have to make drastic cuts, from layoffs to shutting down schools. Add to that, just last month, Albany High School was named "one of the lowest performing schools in the state."

Dr. Colucciello said, "We will accomplish much in this year because we have the community, the board and all of us the staff working together and that's really the only way you get something done."

People we spoke with say they approve of the school board's decision, saying sometimes, out with the old and in with the new isn't necessarily better.

Noelene Smith, a parent, said, "Our school district is in crisis. You need someone with experience and somebody that cares and is so committed and we know Dr. Colucciello is that committed."

Mayor Jerry Jennings said, "He's a man that cares about our kids and cares about doing the right thing. And he's very open for discussion and that's what will make the next couple of years very positive for all of our young people."

Challenges do lie ahead, but it looks like Dr. Colucciello is up for the challenge.

Dr. Colucciello said, "It will be my pleasure and I look forward to the year. Thank you!"

Dr. Colucciello will remain the Superintendent of Schools through the 2011 school year, as the district continues to search for a permanent replacement.