Huntington UFSD Celebrates Outstanding School Leaders During National Principals Month

October is National Principals Month, and the Huntington Union Free School District is proud to recognize its eight exceptional building principals whose leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to students and staff help make Huntington's schools extraordinary places to learn, grow and succeed.

Each day, Huntington's principals take on countless responsibilities that extend far beyond the walls of their offices. They serve as instructional leaders, mentors, problem-solvers, advocates and trusted partners to students, staff and families. From greeting students as they arrive each morning to attending evening performances, athletic contests and school celebrations, their commitment to their school communities is unwavering.

Superintendent of Schools Beth McCoy expressed her appreciation for the district's building leaders and the important role they play in shaping the Huntington experience.

"Our eight principals are truly the heart of their school communities," Mrs. McCoy said. "Their leadership extends far beyond academics. They create environments where students feel safe, supported, challenged and valued. They inspire our teachers, build meaningful relationships with families and work tirelessly to ensure that every child has an opportunity to succeed. I am incredibly proud of the dedication, professionalism and compassion they demonstrate each and every day. Huntington is a stronger district because of their leadership."

The district proudly recognizes its eight building principals:

Dr. Michelle Richards – Washington Primary School

Valerie Capitulo-Saide – Jefferson Primary School

Rosecindy Siegel – Flower Hill Primary School

Jill Amott-Erwig – Southdown Primary School

Stephanie Campbell – Woodhull Intermediate School

Yenifer Mercado – Jack Abrams Intermediate School

Traci Roethel – J. Taylor Finley Middle School

Rochelle Brown – Huntington High School

While each principal leads a school with its own unique identity, traditions and needs, all eight share a common purpose: ensuring that every Huntington student has access to an exceptional educational experience.

The role of a principal is both demanding and deeply rewarding. On any given day, these educational leaders may be observing classroom instruction, meeting with parents, supporting a student in need, collaborating with teachers, addressing building operations, coordinating schoolwide initiatives or celebrating student achievements.

Much of their most important work happens quietly, often behind the scenes, and well beyond the traditional school day.

Deputy Superintendent Chris Hender, who works closely with the district's principals on personnel, operations and schoolwide initiatives, praised their dedication and the countless ways they support the Huntington community.

"I have the privilege of working alongside these eight remarkable individuals, and I can say firsthand that the job of a principal is never easy," Mr. Hender said. "They are often the first to arrive, the last to leave and the people everyone turns to when a challenge arises. What impresses me most is their ability to manage an incredible number of responsibilities while never losing sight of what matters most: our students. They advocate for their teachers, support families, celebrate successes and navigate difficult situations with professionalism and heart. So much of what they do goes unnoticed, but their impact is felt throughout our entire district. I am tremendously grateful for their partnership and unwavering commitment to Huntington."

The district also recognizes that successful school leadership requires strong partnerships. Huntington's principals work closely with assistant principals, teachers, support staff, families, central administration and community organizations to ensure that students receive the resources, guidance and encouragement they need to thrive.

Their work helps establish the culture of each building, strengthen school communities and reinforce the district's longstanding tradition of educational excellence.

As National Principals Month continues, the Huntington Union Free School District encourages students, families and staff members to take a moment to thank their building principals for the countless ways they make a difference.

To Huntington's eight outstanding principals: Thank you for your leadership, your dedication and the pride you bring to our school district each and every day.

Happy National Principals Month!