Huntington Superintendent Eyes Retirement
With an announcement that surprised many in the audience, Huntington School District Superintendent John J. Finello said the 2009/10 school year will be his last, ending a career that is now in its 38th year as a teacher and administrator in the district. The veteran educator shared his intentions at the close of Tuesday night’s School Board meeting.
Mr. Finello said his decision came “after much thought and reflection” over an extended period of time. “The Board of Education has asked that I stay on as superintendent until such time that they find a replacement and a smooth transition takes place and I have agreed to do so. I promise to do everything in my power to make this transition as seamless and as efficient as possible. I will continue to work hard and promote the district at every opportunity.”
This marks Mr. Finello’s 51st year as either a student or employee in the district. He began as a kindergarten student and graduated from Huntington High School in 1968. After earning a bachelor’s degree at St. John’s University in 1972, he returned as a classroom teacher at Huntington Elementary School. He later served as the district’s elementary science and computer coordinator for two years before becoming assistant principal of Huntington El in 1988.
In 1991 Mr. Finello was named principal of Washington Elementary School, remaining in that post until May 2000, when he was elevated to assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. He became superintendent in July 2001. In addition to his undergraduate degree, Mr. Finello holds a Master of Arts in education from Adelphi University and a Professional Diploma in educational administration from Long Island University – C.W. Post.
“It has been an honor and privilege serving the district and its students in all of the positions I have held,” Mr. Finello told the audience at Tuesday night’s meeting. “In all of my years in Huntington, I can say without hesitation what makes Huntington so extraordinary is its community and the wonderful people who have dedicated themselves to helping our children learn and grow in a healthy, nurturing and caring learning environment. This I will surely miss.”
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