SCOPE Honors Three from Huntington UFSD

SCOPE’s 25th Annual School District Awards Dinner held earlier this week at Villa Lombardi in Holbrook was themed Shining Above the Rest. It recognized essential instructional and support staff members at districts that comprise SCOPE’s membership.

J. Taylor Finley Middle School Principal Traci Roethel, Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School chief custodian Thomas Desmond and Huntington High School English teacher Kelly Krycinski were among those honored.

Huntington UFSD officials were on hand to celebrate with the award recipients and to support SCOPE’s mission. SCOPE Education Services, founded in 1964, is a private, not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization, permanently chartered by the New York State Board of Regents to provide services to school districts in New York State. Services offered to local school districts include programs for educators, parents and children.

SCOPE offerings include professional development, conferences, training, child care, preschool, elementary enrichment courses, outdoor education, summer environmental adventure programs and workshops/speakers bureau for parents and students.

Here’s what SCOPE had to say about Huntington UFSD’s three honorees:

Traci Roethel

Traci Roethel has been a transformative leader within the district since beginning her service in February 2014 as principal of Woodhull Intermediate School. In July 2019, she took on the challenge of leading Finley Middie School and completely reimagined the school culture.

Under Mrs. Roethel’s leadership, Finley has become a vibrant hub that celebrates students and faculty alike. She has championed restorative practices, data driven instruction and support, fostered strong relationships, and created a joyful, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. From weekly themed contests with staff to DJ music energizing the hallways between class periods, Ms. brings creativity and fun into the daily where school experience. Her energy, intelligence, and genuine care for people have made Finley a place students and staff truly love to learn and work.

Thomas Desmond

Tom Desmond has served as chief custodian at Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School since February 2016, and his impact is felt every day throughout the building. He consistently goes above and beyond for students, staff, and visitors, approaching every task with diligence, care, and meticulous attention to detail.

Mr. Desmond is the kind of professional who sees what needs to be done and does it without ever needing to be asked. He never complains and leads by example, earning the respect of everyone he works with. His staff frequently speak about how fortunate they are to work under his leadership, noting that Mr. Desmond listens, supports, and never asks anyone to do something he is not willing to do himself. Always approachable and smiling, Tom embodies professionalism, pride, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Kelly Krycinski

Since 1999, Kelly Krycinski has served as a cornerstone of Huntington High School's English department. An educator who truly teaches from the heart, Krycinski is celebrated for her deep thinking and the meaningful connections she fosters with students and colleagues alike. A lifelong learner, Krycinski leads by example. She is currently refining her craft as a singer and songwriter, and she is always willing to share her creative journey with the school community. Ms. Krycinski serves as advisor of Key Club and is instrumental in producing K-Factor, Huntington High School's premier talent show. This event now proudly supports Rachel's Dance for the Cure. Ms. Krycinski's intelligence, creativity, and dedication to personal growth inspire her students to embrace their own paths of lifelong learning and compassionate service.