In preparation for the new school year, the staff of the Briarcliff Manor School District gathered in the auditorium of Briarcliff High School on Sept. 3 for a superintendent’s convocation.
New Superintendent of Schools James Kaishian commenced with a welcoming address in which he described the path that intuitively led him to a teaching, and subsequently administrative, career. He commented on the kindness of Briarcliff’s students and the community, state and national recognitions that the district has received, and he commended the faculty and staff for their dedication to students. “You offer the students a sense of purpose and hope,” he said. “There’s no place I’d rather be than right here with you. I feel honored to take this journey with you.”
Special recognition was given to art teacher Dr. Jean Linville, a 25-year veteran of the district. “Jean is an instructional leader and artist,” noted Mr. Kaishian. “She cultivates abilities and inspires students with a sense of the aesthetic and the message of beauty and hope.” Also recognized was third-grade teacher Christine Elliot, the recipient of this year’s “Teacher of the Year” award.
Mr. Kaishian further acknowledged Board of Education President Jennifer Rosen, attributing the high-quality education provided by the district in part to the leadership of the Board.
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“This is a small district that has achieved big results,” Ms. Rosen said, noting that the district is home to some of the highest-performing schools in both the state and the nation.
The conference also served to welcome the district’s newest administrator, Todd Elementary Assistant Principal Jennifer Jacobs. Debora French and Dan Murphy were recognized for having been promoted to the positions of BHS principal and assistant principal, respectively.
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Mr. Kaishian concluded the conference with words of advice and praise. “Communicate with the district office, the principals and the parents,” he said encouragingly. “Nothing is more important than educating our students. You do an outstanding job in our schools, and we’re here for you.”
Faculty participated in various curriculum alignment/development workshops, including sessions addressing math, ELA, science, social studies, world languages, health and physical education, as well as Common Core integration.
