Christine Cleary, who had been serving as acting principal of the Springs School since August, was elevated to the permanent position of principal on Monday.
Previously she was the assistant principal for about six years, and was a classroom teacher and math specialist before that. She established Family Math Night and the World's Fair, two popular school events. She also originated the Diversity Ambassadors program, which brings students together in the name of multicultural education and inclusion, and which has been recognized by the Suffolk County Legislature and New York State Assembly.
"The district did not have to search far for an individual who is intelligent, hard-working, curriculum focused, dedicated, and always puts students first," Debra Winter, the district superintendent, said during Monday's school board meeting. "In a school year filled with unprecedented challenges, Ms. Cleary led with a steady hand and has worked tirelessly . . . to keep our schools not only open but our students and staff safe, and the community informed, during a global pandemic."
"I look forward to moving Springs into the next chapter with all you phenomenal people by my side," Ms. Cleary said.
School officials also lauded two longtime employees, Jodie Hallman and William Hallman, who are retiring at the end of the school year after 30 and 18 years of service, respectively. The two are caring, dedicated, skilled educators and technology "gurus" who will be missed very much, officials said.